As an independent insurance agent, it can be easy to get so caught up in the hustle and realize you’re not actually getting anywhere. You aren’t fielding more leads. You aren’t selling more policies. You’re not polishing your sales pitch. If you are stuck in a rut and tired of spinning your wheels, or you’re just starting out as an agent looking for tips and tricks, here’s how to reach career goals in 5 easy steps.
1. Persistence and Patience
Persistence and patience are two key traits every successful insurance agent has mastered. Though the two sound contradictory, they go hand in hand in this field of work. Persistence is staying the course despite obstacles. It requires picking up the phone and calling people even after rejection…after rejection…after rejection. On the other hand, you must know when it is time to be patient. Allow a lead some time to think about their decision. Giving them breathing room and knowing when not to push will allow you to stand out from other insurance agents. If you’re wondering how to reach career goals, start here.
2. Network, Network, Network
Is your career goal this year to convert more leads? Networking is one of the most valuable ways you can secure viable leads. Start by introducing yourself to new people at social events. Then, when the opportunity presents itself, have your business card ready. Also, as life becomes more social media focused, don’t forget to network online as well. Reach out to others on LinkedIn and create a business Facebook page where you can promote yourself to others. By expanding your network and meeting new people, you’ll increase your leads and reach your career goals even quicker.
3. Use Constructive Criticism
While listening to criticism can be difficult, it isn’t personal. Being able to learn and grow from constructive criticism can be one of the most valuable skills an insurance agent can have. Do peer reviews throughout your agency and see what your team believes you can build upon and due better at. Ask your customers for feedback after closing a sale to see what you could have done better. Learning from constructive criticism will allow you to change and grow to reach your career goals.
4. Meet the Pros
To become the most successful agent you can be, it is crucial to have a mentor who has seen it all. They can help inform you about the in’s and out’s of being an insurance agent, as well as help you fine-tune your practices. Try to connect with someone who you aspire to be in the field. Set up a meeting and ask them about tips for overcoming challenges or industry insights. Mentors will remember what it’s like starting out or finding themselves in a rut and will be able to offer a helping hand to help you reach your career goals.
If you’re contracted with us at Trusted American Insurance Agency, you can call us anytime for mentoring and advice. We want to see you succeed and we’ll provide you what you need to make that happen.
5. Pace Yourself
Reaching your career goals is a marathon, not a sprint. The most successful agents have been working hard for years building their network and clientele. It is important to focus on each career milestone and be proud of how far you have already come. Focus on upcoming small goals, that will help you build to achieve your larger career goals. Ensure you are doing the simple things right and take the time to grow from mistakes.
Everyone wants to move up in their career. But only the agents who are focused, intentional, and persistent will reach their career goals. Our advice is to write down your career goals on a piece of paper you can look at every day to remind yourself to stay laser focused. You’ll be there in no time.