2020 Marketing Issue offering guidance on marketing plans and communication tactics that help independent agents strengthen outreach and client connections.

While we have been fortunate that our industry hasn’t been hit with as many challenges as many others, it is still an accomplishment to remain still standing at this juncture — because business ownership is challenging even in normal time. I want to applaud all of you for your veracity and perseverance in continuing to serve customers during this year. It has truly been a marvel to witness the human spirit and the business owners’ willingness to adapt in a constantly changing landscape. 

Traditional ways of marketing and selling won’t work in the near-term, and maybe even in the long-term as some new behaviors are likely to stick beyond the pandemic. Digital and virtual tools can help agents succeed in this environment.

CEO Newsletter: In a time when people may be suffering from economic impacts, as well as information overload from news and other sources, it can be difficult to know what’s even appropriate for promoting your business and staying front and center.

A Smart Choice magazine issue centered on agent education, professional development, and adapting agency practices to evolving industry needs.

From the Front Line: Now more than ever agents must resist the temptation to slash marketing budgets. It seems counterintuitive, but when times are hard, that is when you actually should invest more into marketing. This doesn’t mean you have to spend more money (although you should consider increasing your budget if possible). There are many marketing avenues that don’t cost a thing!

IntelliDrive, the telematics-based auto insurance app from Travelers, is now even better at helping customers understand their driving habits and rewarding them for safe driving. The app collects and assesses data on behaviors such as hard braking, rapid acceleration, speed, the time of day customers drive and now, distracted driving. 

​What if technology could help drivers and fleet managers see beyond just the road ahead? A new suite of smart devices is doing just that by helping drivers stay safe and allowing fleet managers access to real-time analytics. The result is fewer accidents and improved efficiency for commercial auto policyholders. That may translate to savings by improving loss ratios and potentially lowering premiums.​

Articles from the Commercial Advantage issue focused on growing an independent agency’s book of business through commercial lines and client engagement.

The spread of COVID-19 has completely upended the way we live, work, and socialize. In particular, the hospitality industry has suffered significant hits as states across the country have imposed lockdown or limited contact regulations, ending in bars and nightclubs closing.