What does an Insurance Agent do?
As an Insurance Agent sells insurance policies, they are responsible for fully explaining insurance premiums, coverage, and claims information to their clients. They are also responsible in assessing market risk as they help their clients determine which insurance policies are necessary.
An Insurance Agent should be knowledgeable about different types of insurance plans. They should be able to clearly explain everything about insurance policies to their clients to ensure customer satisfaction. Usually, Insurance Agents have a sales quota, and they have to fulfill this target number on a set deadline with their managers or supervisors.
Insurance Agent skills and qualifications
A successful Insurance Agent candidate will have strong communication and interpersonal skills that will help them connect with clients and gain more sales. Some of the top skills and qualifications to seek in a prospective candidate include:
- Strong business and sales skills
- Analytical skills
- A positive, ambitious attitude
- The ability to use computer software programs designed for insurance companies
- Excellent knowledge of all insurance policies
- Excellent customer service skills
- Strong negotiation skills
Insurance Agent experience requirements
Depending on the volume of sales required, work experience is not always necessary. A junior Insurance Agent can be expected to bring in fewer sales. If you are looking to fill the position of a Senior Insurance Agent with a large volume of sales, seeking a candidate with experience in the field, with a proven track record of sales to numerous clients, is advisable. If the job is within a specific industry and is not of a general nature, industry-related experience may be required.
Insurance Agent education and training requirements
An Insurance Agent will usually have a secondary school diploma. Though much of the training is learned on the job, it is essential that an Insurance Agent receives certification from the governing body in their province. Or, they can hold a federal certification, like the Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) designation. Insurance Agents must complete the required training courses and examinations to receive their certification.
Insurance Agent salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average Insurance Agent earns a salary of $48,118 annually. The salary will vary based on factors like location, level of experience, employer, and the type of industry.
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