Selecting the right independent insurance agent to take care of your insurance needs should not be an “eeny, meeny, miny, moe” decision. You are looking for a long-term relationship with someone you can trust. You wouldn’t buy a car without shopping around, and you shouldn’t select an independent agent without doing some research too. So what should you look for?
1. Know the Difference between Independent Agents and other Insurance Agents
An independent agent may be a small-business owner who represents a number of different insurance companies. In contrast, agents who represent large, national insurance companies are employees of their company and only sell products from that company. A direct insurance company sells directly to you without an agent, typically online. An independent agent has the opportunity to best match price and coverage for your needs, and if an insurance company is competitive one year but not the next, your independent agent can quote other carriers. That is why they are called independent.
2. Ask for Referrals
Referrals from family, friends and colleagues are a good place to start. When you ask around, find out why they like their independent agent. Ask about their customer service and follow-through, if the agent is friendly and knowledgeable. Is their policy reviewed annually?
3. Visit Their Websites
Websites are full of information. Read about the history of the agency, the staff’s bios, their customer testimonials. See if their website provides insurance information and easy access to price quotes, either online or via telephone. Websites can give you a feel for the personality of the agency, what they think is important, and the type of customer service they provide.
4. Look for Credentials
A knowledgeable independent agent can provide the advice you need when deciding what coverage and limits you need to protect your family and you. Look for independent agents who have letters next their name on their business card. These represent professional designations, such as Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Associate in Risk Management (ARM). To maintain these credentials, independent agents must take continuing education classes.
5. Knowledge and Trust Are Key
It is not so simple to determine knowledge and trust because these qualities are established over time. But you can start by asking the independent agents to explain the products they sell and how they determine which products, coverage and limits you need. This will give you a good feel for how the agent does business.
Remember that your relationship with a good independent agent is likely to last a long time, so it pays to take the time to choose the right one for you. As your independent agent, our job is to help you select the best coverage and limits and with the most competitive premiums from a variety of the insurance companies we represent.
