As an insurance agent, what are your biggest concerns right now?
The people’s fear of the economy and socialized healthcare. When people are fearful
or uncertain about circumstances out of their hands, they usually become conservative
with their spending. There is a lot of publicity right now about government-run
healthcare and potential clients are putting their decisions on hold until they
know the outcome.
How have you been able to overcome these obstacles?
I spend more time educating clients about the pros and cons of the health reform making sure they are fully aware about
the potential outcomes. The main point however, is that legislation is not going
to pass today or tomorrow. There are 50 million Americans out there without health
insurance who may need coverage now. Finding an agency with a variety of solutions
is key. When educating clients about my agency, American Insurance Agencies Direct,
I let them know we offer a wide range of healthcare solutions from limited benefit
policies to comprehensive major medical plans. This allows the client to find a
plan that fits their needs without paying for unnecessary coverage.
How have you been able to accelerate your future and meet your goals despite the
economy?
My goal was to expand my business by opening a fourth location. Being able to test
all markets in Florida would help me determine where the pull comes from on the
consumer side and where we can recruit agents and clients. While I was working to
grow my business, I had an unexpected setback in my personal life. A family member
became very ill and their conditions were not covered by their insurance policy.
In order to provide them treatment, I had to think of ways to find capital quick!
I went online to see how to get capital through the insurance agency. After finding
TWG Capital and working with my account manager, John Stainbrook, I was able to
sell 4 out of 6 writing numbers to
TWG Capital for one lump sum.
The money I received from selling a portion of my book was enough to pay for my
family’s medical expenses and perform the market analysis I thought was going to
be put on the back burner. The Tampa area turned out to be the hottest market and
my new agency is scheduled to open September 20, 2009 – just two months after contacting
TWG Capital.
What lessons have you learned during this slow economy that agents need to remember
now and in the future?
Stay positive! Don’t give up or become affected by the news and media. Believe in
yourself and remember there’s always money to be made. There are always people looking
for financial services, you just have to go out and find them. And when roadblocks
come your way, get creative and find unique solutions to help you get through the
tough times.
What other advice would you give to agents who are struggling in this economy?
Don’t struggle – just work. Work harder than other agents in your area, talk to
more people and go to more appointments. It’s time consuming and can be exhausting
but it’s doable. Stick it through and make it happen!
Would you recommend TWG Capital to other Insurance agents?
Absolutely! Before the recession I would have went to the bank for a loan, but banks
are tight now and through TWG Capital I was able to obtain capital through my agency. The best part about
working with TWG Capital was the thorough follow-up. Everything was delivered on
time and I wasn’t frustrated with long processes or lack of communication. Everybody
was positive, kind and helpful – especially my Account Manager John Stainbrook. He did an excellent job answering
my phone calls and keeping me up-to-date with the process and status of my capital.
Read other agent interviews:
Gary Treadwell – Colonial Life Agent.
Want to learn more about outlasting the downturn? Two free whitepapers are available
for download:
Three Debt-Free Growth Strategies for Agents
During a Recession
Recession-Proofing Tactics for Insurance Providers
For more information call 877.894.2785 or email
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