What Is an Insurance Agent and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Does an Insurance Agent Do?
Insurance agents contact potential customers to sell car, home, travel, medical, or life insurance policies. Insurance agents inform customers of policy terms and work directly with customers to renew, change, or transfer policies. Also, insurance agents gather and analyze customer information then use this to identify the most appropriate policies. Insurance agents provide customer service, conduct research about customer needs, and deliver presentations about policy options.
How Do You Become an Insurance Agent?
A high school diploma is required to become an insurance agent. In most states, you will have to complete a licensure exam. A 4-year degree is not required, but employers consider you a stronger candidate if you have a degree in business, finance, psychology, or marketing.
What Are Different Types of Insurance Agent Jobs?
Insurance agents often specialize in particular type of insurance. Health insurance agents sell and advise on insurance policies that cover medical expenses. Car insurance agents work with customers to establish policies that cover vehicle damage and replacements, while travel insurance agents sell policies that travelers can purchase to secure their belongings in the event of damage, loss, or theft.
What Is the Job Duty of an Insurance Agent?
The job duty of an insurance agent is to identify and reach out to customers that need insurance policies. An insurance agent is responsible for determining the customer’s insurance policy needs, recommending a policy that meets those needs, and closing the sale. The job of an insurance agent also entails keeping up with industry trends and best practices and making customer referrals when necessary.
What Are the Benefits of an Insurance Agent Job?
Being an insurance agent is accompanied by many benefits. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that insurance agent jobs opportunities will continue to grow faster than the national job growth average until 2026. Insurance agents get to enjoy some variety of their work duties, local and non-local travel, bonuses in addition to regular pay, and the opportunity to interact with a wide range of people. Insurance agents may also have a flexible schedule.
Insurance Agent Job Description Sample
With this Insurance Agent job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Insurance Agent role.
Job Summary
We are seeking a motivated and organized Insurance Agent to join our agency. You will utilize current leads and develop new leads to establish clients and provide the insurance products they need. We offer a wide variety of insurance services, including auto and homeowner’s insurance, and our goal is to find the best policies for each client. You will be responsible for keeping up with insurance trends and changes to the coverage offered by different insurance companies. We prefer candidates who have at least one year of experience in insurance or sales.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop leads and schedule appointments with clients
- Determine the specific needs of particular clients by researching current coverage and available options
- Answer questions related to coverage and annual charges
- Help customers complete all paperwork properly
- Obtain underwriting approval by completing the application for coverage
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Prior sales experience a plus
- Proficient with Microsoft Office
- Strong communication skills
- Organized, self-motivated, and proactive in problem-solving
