From the Front Line
The BIG question: Why should I join an agency network and what are the benefits?
Most people would provide the answer of: “access to markets and carriers!” Although that probably is the biggest reason, the truth is that agency networks offer so much more than that.
- Sales & Marketing Support: Typically, you will have access to education, product support, sales techniques, and marketing tools. In addition, you’ll even have access to advice given about social media strategies, advertising, and website management.
- Agency & Agent Connections: One of the largest tools for an independent agent is the ability to learn from the experiences of others in the same industry! What’s better than passing along best practices, insights, and expertise to make the independent agency channel better as a whole? It’s truly a wonderful web full of agents at all different stages with various experiences and situations!
- Commissions: The pay out through agency networks typically can result in higher commissions to the agent. This is due to higher negotiated commissions from the carriers. When you join a networking agency group, you’re seen as a part of a larger master agency which in turn generates higher commission rates and in turn higher payouts, to you, the agent.
Being independently branded and offering multiple carrier options is crucial for the success of an independent agent. When joining an agency network, you then can provide client need assessments based on individual coverage and pricing options. From accessing markets and carriers, to sales and marketing support, to commissions, and those agency connections…there is a huge opportunity out there to help you and your agency grow and be more successful.
Most importantly, Smart Choice® is there to guide you along that path!
Are you an agent that is still on the fence? Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions to get more of your specific questions answered! Of course, Smart Choice® employees, State Directors, and Territory Managers are always here to assist! Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask those questions that are on your mind.
The Truth About Agency Networks
Have you wondered, "Why should I join an agency network and what are the benefits?" Most people would provide the answer of: “access to markets and carriers!” Although that probably is the biggest reason, the truth is that agency networks offer so much more than that. For more on networks, aggregators, and clusters — and how to pick what's right for you — check out 2019 Issue 1 of the Smart Choice® Magazine.