Learn how to make a great first impression in the insurance sales industry by following these strategies and tips.
Whether you’re fresh out of school or in the midst of a career shift, being a newcomer to the insurance sales industry can be daunting. This is especially true if you’re joining an agency with many seasoned professionals. There are ways to combat your self-doubt and use your newness to your advantage. Consider these nine strategies for standing out in the insurance sales industry.
1. Remember that everyone starts new at some point
It’s easy to feel intimidated when starting out in the insurance sales industry. It’s important to remember that everyone starts out new at some point. No one is supposed to know everything right out the gate. Be a sponge and soak up information from everyone around you as you start out. Take notes, ask to shadow colleagues, and dive right into the work.
2. Find a mentor
Find a mentor in your office or in your local network of insurances sales industry professionals. This works two-fold. On the one hand, you’re getting to learn from someone who’s been in the field for a while. On the other hand, you’re building your network connections. It’s important when engaging with a mentor, to make sure to understand the mentor relationship. This is not a work best friend, or a supervisor, necessarily. It’s someone you’ve reached out to and specifically asked if they would consider mentoring you. Mentorship can look different to some folks. Be clear about what you are looking for (a monthly check-in, phone calls, a quarterly lunch date, etc.).
3. Volunteer for the grunt work
Not all parts of the insurance sales industry are glamorous. Demonstrate to your colleagues that you are a team player by volunteering for the less desirable tasks. Showing your willingness to roll up your sleeves is a great way to build good working relationships right away.
4. Brush up on your soft skills
So much of the insurance sales industry relies on soft skills like communication, teamwork, and organization. Find a professional development workshop or webinar that reviews strategies and techniques for improving your soft skills.
5. Dress for success
You don’t have to break the bank with a whole new professional wardrobe when you join the insurance sales industry. Focus on staple items like well-fitting suits and blazers. Be sure to follow any office or company dress code.
6. Be on time (no, really)
When you’re first starting out in the insurance sales industry, it’s important to show initiative and make a good first impression. One way of establishing yourself as a dependable colleague and insurance agent is to be on time. Give yourself extra time for any work commute, and always call clients when you say you are going to. Punctuality is a big sign of respect for your colleagues and customers.
7. Find ways to incorporate your strengths
Are you good with technology? Volunteer to beta test a new customer relationship management software or update the agency website. Perhaps you have some graphic design experience. Offer to update or redesign marketing materials. As a newbie in the sales insurance industry, it’s important to find ways to distinguish yourself from your colleagues. Find ways to incorporate your strengths and talents.
8. Do your homework
Take advantage of professional development opportunities. Workshops, seminars, webinars, networking events, books, and podcasts, are all great resources to learn more about the insurance sales industry. Don’t forget to share what you learn with your colleagues.
9. Follow the experts on social media
Find local and national insurance sales industry leaders and follow them on social media. Many of these people use their social media platforms to give useful advice to folks just starting out in the business. By staying connected to these experts in the field, you’ll keep your finger on the pulse of industry trends and news.
In addition to the above strategies, new insurance sales industry professionals should take advantage of tools and resources like HBW Leads. HBW Leads will provide you with double-verified and exclusive leads to fill your sales pipeline and grow your business.