As we discussed in another blog this month, there’s some confusion – both in and outside of our industry – about the roles of an insurance agent, broker, and general agency (GA).
How General Agencies Work: Does a GA Cost Brokers Anything?
Before we talk about all of the services and assistance that a general agency can provide to an insurance broker, let’s dispel a myth. Working with a GA does not cost you anything. If you write business through a GA, you’ll earn the same commission (and bonuses, if applicable) as you would on your own as an independent broker.
One of the country’s leading GAs, Word & Brown (W&B) does not earn its compensation from your commissions. The selected carrier or administrator pays us directly. You won’t earn less, and, in fact, you could earn more because W&B relieves you of so many tasks. That frees you up to go after more new business.
What a California and Nevada General Agency Does for Brokers
So, what can you expect when you partner with W&B? Consider this range of valuable assistance:
Market Expertise in California and Nevada:
Our sales experts work throughout California and Nevada. We know the industry players in each state, their plans, and provider networks. We can help you compare plans and find the right solution to address your clients’ needs. We understand demographic and regional trends, too. We’ll help you solve whatever challenges your clients and their employees are facing. If you’re not already doing business with all of the carriers your clients want, we will work with you and the carrier or administrator to expedite your new appointment.
Support From Multiple Teams:
Beyond outstanding underwriting and sales support, we offer superior marketing, enrollment, renewal, and service expertise, too. We will present alongside you – or in your place. Our enrollers will expedite your cases and ensure paperwork is filled out completely and correctly. Plus, we’ll make sure your groups’ members get their ID cards promptly.
A Diverse Product Roster With Full-Service Support
W&B offers an unparalleled product and service portfolio. We also provide support at every stage of the sales process – before, during, and after the sale as well as at renewal. We will solve your pain points and relieve time-consuming administrative tasks to give you back time in your day. This level of support has helped us build a reputation of delivering “Service of Unequalled Excellence” to brokers and their customers for 40+ years.
Training, Technology and Continuing Education
We will help you stay on top of changing federal and state regulations, evolving reporting requirements, and pending and proposed legislation. We offer valuable in-person and online Continuing Education (CE) courses required to maintain your license. Plus, our industry-leading tech streamlines product comparisons and client decisions with a one-page executive summary.
Why New Brokers Shouldn’t Go It Alone
When you put it all together, you have to ask, “Why would I want to go it alone when W&B offers me so much?” The fact is you don’t have to. Let us help take your sales to the next level. Call your W&B rep today to learn more. Or, if we are not yet working together, register online or reach out to Jim Pippins, W&B’s Senior Director of Broker Success.
