Your insurance agent plays a crucial role in protecting what matters most to you, so when it comes to finding the right agent for your needs, there are many factors to consider. Ideally, you want to choose an agent with whom you can build a long-term, trustworthy relationship. Selecting professionals to rely on for important needs such as health care, banking and child care require much thought and research, and choosing someone to handle your insurance coverage should be no different. Use the following five-step guide to help you learn how to find the right insurance agent for your needs:
1. Understand the difference between independent agents and other insurance agents.
While independent insurance agents represent many different insurance companies, there are other insurance agents who are employees of large, national insurance companies and can only sell products from that one company. Another way to purchase a policy is through a direct insurance company, which sells insurance directly to you without an agent, often online. What’s beneficial about working with an independent agent is that your agent has the ability to best match price and coverage for your needs with the different companies he/she represents, instead of only being able to provide you with one option. If your premium is competitive one year but increases the next, an independent agent can requote your policy with all of the companies he/she works with to try to find you a better rate.
2. Is location important to you?
While some policyholders are content with purchasing coverage online, others are more comfortable knowing that their independent agent has an office in their community. Working with a local agent will allow you to develop a personal relationship with your agent, who you can meet with face-to-face at your convenience for answers to your coverage questions or assistance with a claim. Many local agents also take pride in their dedication to their communities, which can make you feel good about doing business with them.
3. Ask around for referrals.
Although technology has changed the way business is conducted in many respects, referrals from friends, family members and other people you trust will likely never go out of style. Asking around for recommendations is a great place to start in finding the right insurance agent for you. Ask family and friends about their agents, what they like about them, if they are friendly and knowledgeable, and if they are satisfied with their customer service and follow-through.
4. Check out their websites.
After receiving referrals, visiting different agents’ websites is the best next step you can take to learn more about them. Websites are typically full of information, from a company’s history to a staff directory to client testimonials. Does the website provide helpful insurance information and the option to easily request quotes? An insurance agent’s website can give you a feel for the agency’s personality, values, and type of customer service it provides, which all prove important in finding the right agent for you.
5. Look for credentials.
As with many other professions, the presence of letters at the end of an insurance agent’s name is a great indicator of his/her credentials. Look for letters next to an agent’s name on his/her business card such as CIC, Certified Insurance Counselor, CPCU, Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter, and AII, Accredited Advisor in Insurance. These are just a few of the professional designations can earn and maintain through continued education.
Insurance agents work to protect the things that matter most to you, from your home and business, to all of the meaningful possessions you’ve accumulated over the years, so finding the right agent for you is no simple task. But remember: a relationship with a good agent is likely to last for many years, so it’s worth the effort upfront to take the time to find the right fit for you.
We at Hunkins & Eaton Insurance Agency are proud to be Trusted Choice® independent insurance agents. As independent agents, we work with many different reputable insurance companies to find the best coverage rates and options for each one of our clients. For additional information about our agency and to get a free quote for your personal or business insurance needs in the Greater Littleton, N.H. area, please call us today at 603-444-3975 or visit www.hunkins-eaton.com.
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