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Career as an insurance agent?
I'm currently in an insurance program at my college but am contemplating switching to another program. I know a career as an insurance agent depends largely on how well you sell, but I'm uncomfortable with the idea it wouldn't be a steady paycheque if I can't sell or meet a quota, and therefore not make money. Anyone working in insurance have this problem?
i haven't work in the insurance field, but my understanding is that the agent gets a percentage of the priemum from their client until the policy holder cancels their account.
I have done this for over ten years and I enjoy it immensley. It is very rewarding and can be lucrative if you do not make false promises to your clientelle.
It's the first couple of years that are the most difficult. You have little income but many agencies will start you on a salary and then gradually switch you from salary to straight commission. It is a good job but you have to have the right personality and be able to take rejection. Be prepared to work a lot of hours the first few years. After the first few years it is worth it.
Most people that go into insurance sales have that problem. To the point where, 95% wash out in the first year, and switch to another field.
A lot will depend on the type of agency you work for and what their pay plan and expectations are. If your straight commission and are expected to generate your own book of business from policy 0 then it's a tough row to hoe; how well you'll do will depend on your personality, perseverance and faith. Most agent I know just kept at it for long enough until they succeeded. Other agents were hired to maintain large books of business and are paid a percentage of existing renewals.
I found as an agent if you performed good sales related activities, sales would follow. You just need to keep at it and put failure out of your mind.