Nowis a time when virtual meetings of all kinds are the norm, whetherit is a videoconference via Zoom or a telehealth visit with one'sdoctor.  (Credit: Thinkstock)

With COVID-19 disrupting many aspects of regular commerce,clients are looking for business partners that they can lean onduring these difficult times. In fact, now is a time you can proveyour value more than ever and be rewarded for reliability andconsistency.

Many agents and brokers are likely already fielding clientquestions on what benefits can help support employees and ways theycan enhance their offerings in 2021.

Related: Employee benefits in 2021: Embrace thetransformation

As a trusted advisor, agents and brokers can considerproactively contacting clients for a mid-year check-in withresources and a helping hand, even if virtually.

Leverage digital communications tools

In addition to face masks, HR managers continue wearing manyhats, and that is where digital resources can be an invaluable aidfor benefits education. Look for agents and brokers with insurerslike Aflac who can provide tools such as digital handouts, e-books,video presentations and training, email templates and more.

Now is a time when virtual meetings of all kinds are the norm,whether it is a videoconference via Zoom or a telehealth visit withone's doctor. When it comes to benefits consultations withemployees, the same holds true: Agents and brokers are willing andready to help answer questions as well as enroll people in benefitsvia video and phone alike — with no handshakes required.

Supplemental benefits education for 2020 and beyond

Current events have led many companies to take a second look attheir benefits offerings and wonder what else they can do tosupport their workforces. Agents and brokers can also use thismid-year check-in period to talk with clients about their overallbenefits packages, especially the importance of supplementalinsurance plans.

By offering supplemental coverage, clients can help employeeswith expenses health insurance doesn't cover. For example, Aflac'sBenExtend combines popular benefits from multiple products into oneoffering, taking into consideration an insured's health carejourney, including diagnosis and hospital confinement, as well ascritical illnesses such as heart attack, stroke or major organtransplant.

On-demand virtual help

As we all make our way through the current difficulties in ourworld, engendering trust is more important than ever. By usingdigital tools to be there for clients during these tough times,agents and brokers can strengthen relationships in today's evolvinghealth care landscape.

Rich Williams is executive vicepresident and chief distribution officer at Aflac.