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The insurance industry operates in cycles, alternating between periods of a soft market (lower premiums, increased capacity) and a hard market (higher premiums, reduced capacity). A hard market poses unique challenges for an insurance agent, particularly for captive insurance agents who work exclusively with one insurance company. In this post, we will explore the disadvantages a captive agent faces during a hard market and how they can navigate these challenges.

Embarking on a career as an independent insurance agent offers a unique path filled with opportunities and challenges. As you navigate the dynamic landscape of the insurance industry on your own terms, there are several best practices that can guide you towards success.

Whether a captive insurance agent should transition to become an independent insurance agent during a hard market is a decision that depends on several factors. While there are potential benefits to transitioning, it's important to consider the following points before making a decision.

To excel in this profession, it's essential to develop a specific set of skills that will set you apart from the competition.

Explore the insurance industry's path to recovery and expansion, driven by Excess & Surplus Markets. With a projected premium market of $170 billion by 2030, learn how to outshine your competition, carve a lucrative niche, and leverage technology to establish yourself as the ultimate insurance expert.

Selling an insurance agency is a significant decision that requires careful planning and execution. If you’re considering selling your agency, you aren’t alone.

As independent insurance agents, we face competition from all sides. The battle for business is tougher than it has ever been. The same old strategies won’t yield the same reliable results. Growth requires a new approach. 

Discover how insurance agents can thrive in the challenging hard market by leveraging the advantages of independent agency partnerships, E&S markets, and innovative solutions provided by Smart Choice's Express Markets division. Explore the key factors driving premium growth and the diverse range of carrier partners in five vital insurance segments, including non-standard auto, artisan contractors, and niche markets, to secure policies and opportunities even in turbulent times.

If you’re partnered with, or have ever considered partnering with an agency network, alliance, aggregator or cluster, you have – no doubt – had to evaluate what it’s going to cost you and your agency.

Discover the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. private auto insurance industry in 2023. Learn how independent agents can thrive despite rising inflation, supply chain issues, and increasing premiums. Explore strategies to succeed in this evolving market and maximize your agency's growth and profitability.

You want to grow your agency and you know you could – if only you had more help. Hiring new team members is an expensive and complicated next step, and fortunately, there’s an easier way to grow before you reach that point. With our Smart Start programs, you can access the support you need to expand your personal and commercial lines business without the time and expense of recruiting and adding payroll.

Moving into 2023, independent agents who wish to grow will have to adopt different mindsets than in the past. As carriers continue to tighten risk guidelines, implement cancellations and rate hikes, and reduce appointments, they will look to partner with growth-oriented agencies.