Amanda Moore,
Andrew and Alexander
1) No one ever said, "I want to be an insurance agent when I grow up." So it's time to grow up and accept it. Surely, the system isn't perfect and it needs to be altered, but health care isn't as bad as people think it is.
2) Grown-ups are just big 3-year-olds; they want what they want when they want it, and if you can't get it for them they'll throw a fit and go to someone else they think will give it to them. Brokers, don't let your pouty clients ruin your afternoon.
3) Dear carrier rep, your products are great, but you are why I promote them. We need each other. By the way, I am going to need that renewal to come in a little lower - you're awesome. Love, your new favorite broker.
4) Everyone seems to need more time and no one seems to run on Moore time. No matter how many times or in how many languages you tell someone a deadline, it will sting them as it whips by. And it will be your fault, not theirs. So, you have to adjust everyone's expectations.
5) Ignorance is not bliss. The average "well-informed" client doesn't always understand insurance and isn't always going to try to learn more than you can get through to them in a five-minute information meeting.
6) Patience, patience. Most insureds need to get with a spouse or family member before making a final decision, and that can take time. Getting those key players in the game at the beginning can increase sales and keep them on the books.
7) One hand washes the other. Keeping the inside team happy keeps your clients happy. Brokers need to communicate with and respect their administrative teams.
8) Ask and you shall receive. And if you don't ask all the right questions up front, the follow-up can be mountainous. Take applications correctly the first time and you save headaches for your team and the clients.
9) Brand yourself. Consistency is the best brand. When people know what to expect from you, you will attract and retain business.
10) Be committed to persistence. You will hear the dreaded "no" more than the gilded "yes," but sometimes, despite what you have heard, "no" means "not right now." That doesn't mean harass.
