How to Become an Insurance Agent

As an insurance agent, you'll need to be proficient in the use of computers. You'll use computers to access databases of potential customers, create marketing materials, and process insurance applications. Be familiar with Microsoft Office applications, such as Word and Excel. Many insurance companies also require their agents to use specific software programs, so you'll need to get trained in the use of these programs as well. To process paperwork, you'll also need a printer, scanner, and fax machine. 

Most insurance agents work in office settings although some work from home. Your environment will be largely determined by the type of insurance you sell. For example, if you're a life insurance agent, you'll spend a lot of time meeting with clients in their homes or places of business. If you work in the property and casualty insurance industry, you'll likely spend more time in an office setting. If you work for a large company, chances are you'll travel to meet with clients or attend conferences. If your company uses a hybrid model, with some agents working in-person and others working remotely, you will likely have the opportunity to telecommute. You won't encounter a lot of occupational hazards as an insurance agent. The biggest issues are those related to a sedentary job role, such as high blood pressure, carpal tunnel, and obesity. Your employer will help you mitigate these risks by allowing schedule flexibility. And as an insurance agent, you and your family will have amazing health insurance.

As an insurance agent, you'll be working with a variety of different people, one of the most important ones being the insurance company's underwriter. Underwriters are the people who evaluate insurance applications and determine whether or not to approve them. You'll also be working with the insurance company's claims adjusters who process and pay out claims. If you sell life insurance, you'll also be working with funeral directors. These are the people who help to make arrangements for funerals and cremations. Within your own office, you will likely interact frequently with your company's receptionist who will direct calls to you, set up your meetings, and more. From time to time, you will need help from one of your company's IT support technicians and administrative assistants. A lead insurance agent often oversees junior agents, depending on your company's organizational structure.

When you become an insurance agent, you'll need to work a full-time schedule. However, the number of hours you work will vary depending on the type of insurance you sell and the needs of your clients. For example, if you sell life insurance, you will need to work evenings and weekends to meet with clients. If you work in the property and casualty insurance industry, you'll likely have a more regular 8-5 schedule. Many insurance companies also offer their agents the opportunity to telecommute, which gives you a more flexible work schedule. You will also work part-time when you first start out in the insurance industry as you build your client base. 

Having the skillset that’s required to be an insurance agent will give you a great career in the industry. As you become more experienced, you will have the chance to move into management or open your own agency. There are also opportunities to work as an insurance broker, where you'll have more freedom to choose the products you sell and the clients you work with. However, to achieve success in other careers, you will need to consider advancing your education and taking on additional responsibilities.

If you are actively looking for a job or just checking what's out there, Spherion is the answer. We will help you with your search for employment by matching you with insurance jobs that fit your skills. 

As one of the leading staffing companies, Spherion has connections with a wide range of businesses. The Spherion team offers plenty of networking opportunities, so you find the right office for your work style. Whether you prefer to work with a small family business or a major company, Spherion has options for you.

Working via Spherion offers you a number of advantages. You will get:

• Paid on a weekly basis
• A flexible schedule
• A contact person to fall back on and ask for help
• A lot of training opportunities
• A range of jobs in your area 
• A personal contact to assist you with your job search
• Training opportunities for gaining more advanced skills
• Flexible scheduling options
• A quick and seamless interviewing process

Most insurance companies require their agents to have at least a high school diploma. However, some companies prefer or require their agents to have a college degree. A degree in business, economics, or finance is helpful, but it is not always required.

In order to sell insurance, you must hold a license in the state where you'll be doing business. The requirements for obtaining a license vary by state, but they generally include passing an exam. You will find more information about your state's licensing requirements on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website. To get a license, you'll need to take a written exam that tests your knowledge of insurance products and laws. 

If you want to sell certain types of insurance, such as life insurance, it will help to obtain a certification. The requirements for certification vary by state, but they generally include passing an exam. One of the most important certification exams is Series 6, which is required to sell life insurance.

One of the most important things you'll need as an insurance agent is the ability to sell. This requires strong communication, writing, and interpersonal skills. You'll need to be able to build relationships with potential customers and effectively explain the benefits of the products you're selling. Being detail-oriented will help you keep track of the policy details and ensure that you're providing your customers with accurate information. The ability to use computers and technology is a must as you'll be using these tools to manage your customers' policies and communicate with them. Lastly, it's important to have a strong work ethic and be self-motivated as you'll be working independently in most cases.

Insurance agents are employees of insurance companies. They sell the company’s products and services and get paid a salary or commission for their efforts. Insurance brokers, on the other hand, are independent contractors. They work with multiple insurance companies to find the best coverage for their clients. They get paid a commission by the insurance companies for their services.

If you’re a people person with strong communication skills and an interest in sales, a job as an insurance agent is a good fit for you. This is because insurance agents spend a lot of time building relationships with potential customers and explaining the benefits of the products they’re selling. On top of that, if you’re detail-oriented and self-motivated, you’ll likely do well in this role.

Applying for a job as an insurance agent is easy with Spherion. You should start by searching for insurance agent jobs on Spherion.com by job title and location. If you don’t see the perfect role, you can submit your resume. Once you submit your contact information and resume through Spherion’s open application, a recruiter from the office closest to you will reach out with details about potential insurance agent roles that fit your skill set and professional goals.