Networking for insurance agents definitely gets a bad rap. Perhaps more accurately, networking seems to always get a bad rap! While understandably nobody enjoys the unsolicited pitches and corny jokes, networking is a crucial part of running a business. Insurance agents can benefit greatly from growing their professional networks.
Great networking ideas for insurance agents
1. Don’t just talk about insurance!
Yes, although you are attending an event as a professional, you will bore people to death if you discuss only insurance. Plus, there are likely a slew of other agents there filling the atmosphere with insurance talk.
Aim to have real conversations and genuinely engage with other professionals about their expertise. Nobody likes a fake.
2. Join a mastermind group
A mastermind is a group of peers that meet together to provide support, ideas, and wisdom for fellow professionals. If you’re having a hard time finding a local group and aren’t interested in anything virtual, form one yourself!
Whether your group is made up of strictly insurance agents or other business experts, joining a mastermind can be an effective way to network and meet people that can potentially help you grow.
3. Hand out business cards
Whether you’re uncomfortable or not, always hand out your business card! Even if 75% of people never look at it again, all it takes is one client or referral to make it all worth it. If possible, get a business card made that stands out and always carry a stack — especially at networking events.
4. Remember others’ names and use them
If you’re terrible at remembering names, it’s time to get better. People like to hear their own name and it establishes a more personal relationship when you take the time to remember someone’s name and use it. Quickly jot someone’s name down once you’re done speaking with them if they don’t give you their own business card.
5. Talk to shy people
Perhaps a little known trick is the “low hanging fruit” at networking events — shy people. You’ll be most appreciated by someone that’s really uncomfortable talking to people if you approach them and make them your buddy. Walk them around and talk with others. You’ll have made a new friend by the end of the event!
6. Always make sure people feel you’re interested in them
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many professionals lack this seemingly simple skill. Listen more than you talk. Prepare some go-to questions that you can discuss with anyone you come in contact with. Ultimately the questions should engage them and encourage them to talk about their expertise. Practice active listening and absorb information. This is an essential networking skill for insurance agents.
7. Follow up with people your networking connections
There’s virtually no point in attending a networking event if you fail to follow up with newly formed connections. You’ve done the base work, but now you need to build a stronger bond. It can even be as simple as sending an email, but don’t under any circumstance send an email that sounds like you’ve sent it to 50 other people. You’ll be marked as trash in the blink of an eye.
People want to form real connections, so take the time to cultivate your professional relationships.
If you’re looking for a new challenge and long-term growth potential as an insurance agent, Aspen Insurance Coaches has a one-of-a-kind support and training system designed to guide agents as they work towards personal success.
We provide everything you need to start acquiring new clients fast.
Contact us today to find out more.
