Insurance

» Lisa Nichols - Do you work in insurance? Have you recently switched jobs?

Tell us about your experience changing jobs in the insurance industry? Are you new to insurance? Or a seasoned veteran of the insurance industry? How's the new job going?

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» jakcomp - Misgivings About Insurance Sales Career

I have just decided, at age 53 and single, to begin a new career in the insurance industry. I received my LAH license and have just recently signed on as an independent with a well known supplemental provider; however, I have misgivings about this new career. As stated, because I am single, I am wondering if I have made a mistake in choosing sales (commissions only) for a living. I do need the flexibility of being able to set my own hours that I will work due to my father's failing health and the care that I will personally need to provide him in the future. What other jobs would I be qualified for that is not in the sales end? What about Loss Control Surveyors? Would I need additional licensing and would this job be sporadic and considered on an "as needed basis." Thank you.

-- posted by jakcomp

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» Lisa Nichols - Misgivings About Insurance Sales Career

In response to Misgivings About Insurance Sales Career posted by jakcomp:

Working on commission can be tough; it can take a while before your hard work starts to pay off. In addition, the schedule may be flexible, but you'll need to put in a lot of hours in order for it to be profitable.

Loss Control Surveyors do offer schedule flexibility, but the work can be sporadic; it's based on insurance claims activity. To get in to this industry, insurance companies look for people with a background in claims, home inspections, appraisals or related fields.

Give your sales career six months to see how things shape up. If you aren't seeing some solid results by January, it may be time to reconsider your alternatives. Since you have your foot in the door at the insurance company already, keep in mind that you may be able to move into claims or some other area later. Insurance companies like to have independents on staff; they know that you know the policy and that you have experience working with people.

Keep that in mind, and keep a line of communication open with managers in the claims department. If you decide to stay with the company but take a different position, they'll already know you and know you have an enthusiasm for the work.

Good luck, and keep me posted!

- Lisa Nichols

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» anglish - Misgivings About Insurance Sales Career

In response to Misgivings About Insurance Sales Career posted by jakcomp:

Depending on your experience, you might be able to work for an independent adjustment firm or an agency that specializes in insurance investigations. If you have construction knowledge, that could easily carry over into work as an independent adjuster. Or if not, insurance investigation agencies need people to do things like interview accident witnesses and victims, take pictures of accident scenes, obtain background information on claimants, etc. Some agencies will provide on-the-job training to people with little experience and most pay on a per-job basis and will give you assignments only when you need the work. If you get to the point where you can work more hours, you can earn quite a bit of money - often over six figures (but usually no benefits).

Hope this helps.

-- posted by anglish

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» jakcomp - What is future for insurance sales agents

What will be in the future for health insurance companies and their sales agents if the U.S. goes to socialized or universal health care? Just wondering if I should re-think beginning my insurance sales career in the health market.

-- posted by jakcomp

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» Lisa Nichols - What is future for insurance sales agents

In response to What is future for insurance sales agents posted by jakcomp:

It will change, that's for sure. Clinton is saying her plan wouldn't eradicate insurance companies, but if it's provided for everyone, the old sales commissions model would be different.

Even if the plan goes through, it will take time to get going. I don't know that I would push the panic button on that just yet. You already have the job. See what others in your company are saying about it tomorrow.

Actually, come back and let us know what they are saying... I'm curious to hear their thoughts, especially from the health insurance sales vets. Are they worried? Taking a wait and see attitude? Or is everyone updating their resumes?

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