If you’re just getting into the insurance sales arena, you may not be sure if you want to be a generalist (and serve all types of consumers with a broad range of needs) or if there’s a market segment on which you want to focus. If a niche appeals to you, there are a lot of different paths you might consider: small group medical, large group medical, Individual & Family Plans (IFP), Medicare, Long Term Care, and others.
If your emphasis is on group medical, you can narrow your focus even more by specializing in a specific type of employer – for example, technology firms, medical practices, or hardware retailers. If you want to target medical practices, is there a sub-niche (like pediatricians) that is growing and offers you greater opportunity in your local area?
If you live in a community that draws a lot of new residents each year – perhaps as one of Kiplinger’s “10 Great Retirement Cities” or the U.S. News “Best Places to Live” list – you might consider focusing on Medicare Advantage or Long Term Care insurance sales. (San Jose was on the 2017 list from U.S. News.)
As you reflect on what might work best for you, ask yourself if you have a connection to a particular industry. Maybe you worked in another field previously. Or, if you’re a recent college graduate, maybe your parents, an aunt or uncle, or older siblings are educators who can introduce you to local school district contacts if you want to consider that niche. Talk with your friends and relatives about their experience with insurance sales professionals; they may be to help you identify your future niche.
Maybe there’s an “overlooked niche” not being targeted by your competitors. Look at what others in your community are doing and who they are – and are not – targeting. Use of trade group or business association membership rosters can help you identify potential prospects for your marketing outreach.
When you’re focused on a market segment, you differentiate yourself from others engaged in insurance sales. And if you’re good at your job, you can get referrals from your customers to others engaged in the same type of business.
Whether you are just getting started or have a 20-year history in the insurance industry, targeted marketing offers you a greater return on your investment – both in terms of time and dollars. It does require an increased commitment, but it can pay significant rewards. When you’re focused on one or more specific markets, you’ll develop a reputation as an expert and enhance your credibility. That can help you increase your referrals and word-of-mouth marketing, so you always have a pipeline of prospects.
While the fundamentals of finding your insurance niche remain largely the same, it’s important to consider current trends and market dynamics as we approach 2024. For instance, the rise of remote work has significantly altered the landscape for group medical insurance. More companies are adopting flexible work environments, and this shift has created a demand for health plans that cater to remote and hybrid employees. Specializing in remote workforce health benefits could present a lucrative niche.
Additionally, the aging population continues to grow, thereby increasing the need for Medicare Advantage and Long-Term Care insurance. It’s worth noting that new Medicare Advantage plans are being introduced with more comprehensive benefits, often including telehealth services. Keeping up to date with these plan innovations could make you a more competitive and informed advisor.
With digital technology becoming more integral to healthcare, consider niches involving telehealth, mental health services, and digital wellness programs. These areas are experiencing rapid growth and can offer substantial opportunities for insurance professionals who align themselves with these emerging trends.
Moreover, climate change and its accompanying natural disasters are impacting many communities. Insurance plans that provide robust coverage for weather-related incidents are becoming increasingly important. This can be an overlooked niche that you might want to consider, especially if you live in regions prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, or flooding.
Lastly, social responsibility and sustainability are gaining traction across industries. Some companies may seek insurance providers that offer green or ethical policies. Understanding these niche markets can differentiate you from the competition and align you with clients who value corporate social responsibility.
By staying attuned to these evolving trends, you can position yourself effectively in the insurance marketplace as we head into 2024.
