Finished my Level 2 Training Course.
I had a slow week. I am an Insurance Agent and a Real Estate Loan Signing Agent and had little time to dedicate. But I am undeterred. In fact I am transferring my Insurance domain, TomCooperInsurance.com to WA and rebuilding it here. I also have several other domains parked here waiting for me to get them put together. I'm excited to see what happens with my online business in the next year.
Recent Comments
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Congratulations on completing level 2 of your training
The only way is up
Keep moving forward
I am also an insurance agent!!!! I would love to do more online with it to try and get clients, but the company that I am with does not allow me to market outside. I am only allowed to sell policies to current policy holders. I have mentioned a couple of times now that I want to do this, but they keep turning their nose up at the idea of it. The ONLY reason that I am still there is because I have a guarantee salary (although it is diddly) and they pay for my health/dental benefits. I even tried to sign one with another non-captive agency, but they said that I could not be appointed with anyone else only them (even though I did not sign anything saying that I was a captive agent).
Hi James,
I had a captive agency for several years with a major carrier. I'm sure you do have a contract with them that you would need to get released from. You will lose all renewal commissions and the ability to represent their products most likely.
There is a transition period and you have to work hard to bring in clients. If you have the drive and can weather the financial transition period then you should start investigating IMOs or FMOs. One thing I would mention is that there are 11,400 people per day turning 65 and will be for the next 30 years. It is the front of the biggest market in history. You may want to consider Senior Services (Medicare Advantage Plans etc...) As an Independent you can represent the biggest carriers in your market and offer choice. A good FMO will not only want you to market your services, they will teach you how. Good luck.
I looked at my contract multiple times to see and there is nothing in it that says that I am captive in anyway shape or form. Which is annoying to me since they are an IMO. Unfortunately with the role that I play I don't get residuals. If I did not need to rely on needing the guarantee I would make a switch in a heartbeat, but right now I need to have that back up just in case I don't get enough sales to make commissions. I would love to do something more independent, but financially I can't afford to do that.
Nice! That's exciting. Best wishes with your new site and your online endeavors at WA. :)
Paula
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Congrats on finishing your level 2 training friend. I think a slow steady pace for a busy person like you is reasonable. Your positive attitude will help you to succeed. All the best!