Characteristics of the Best Insurance Agents By Jared Lewis

Characteristics of the Best Insurance Agents
By Jared Lewis, eHow Contributor

updated: November 16, 2010

Whether you are an insurance agent or an insurance customer looking for a new agent, it helps to know what kind of characteristics other people look for in an agent. The best insurance agents share some common characteristics that existing agents should be aware of and that potential insurance customers may wish to take into consideration before choosing an agent.
Work Ethic
The best insurance agents are typically those that work the hardest. This may not always be the case, but in most instances, top agents tend to be those that are tireless workers who build and expand their business continuously. Having a strong work ethic is most important during the first few years in the insurance business because it establishes a pattern of behavior for later years and helps you get off to a fast start. You need to be self-sacrificing if you are an agent in the industry, for the sake of your business and your clients and their needs.
Communication Skills
Communication skills are essential to being a top insurance agent. Agents who can successfully explain policies and policy details to potential clients are likely to lose these potential customers who may be uneasy about the agreement they are entering into. If you are a client seeking an insurance agent, settling for an agent who cannot effectively communicate with you should not be an option. Effective communicators are those who recognize that each person's communication needs can be different and adjust their own style of communication so that they can be understood by many different types of people.
Availability and Flexibility
As an insurance agent, your job will be to meet the needs of your clients. Clients' needs are often tied to their own work and family event schedules. The best insurance agents are typically those that can be reached at odd hours and can provide appointments to customers at all hours of the day or night, within reason.



If you are looking for an insurance agent, one of the most frustrating things in the world can be getting stuck with an agent whose doors open at 8 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. Just like with real estate agents or financial brokers, ask potential insurance agents what kind of schedule they normally work in case you need to be able to get a hold of them. Determine whether their company has a 24-hour helpline or if you will always have to wait until the next day to get help. Above all, you need an agent who is willing to be flexible to accommodate your scheduling needs.


http://www.ehow.com/list_7351433_characteristics-insurance-agents.html