LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE: NOT FOR SENIORS ONLY! Imagine an insurance product that your clients will keep for 20 or 30 years, or longer, while continuing to pay you generous commissions...

LOSING THOSE MEETING BLUES by Jack Burke Meeting, noun. 1. A coming together; assembly. 2. A joining. 3. A hostile encounter, as a duel. (Webster's American Dictionary) Meeting, n...

MAKE YOUR CLIENTS FEEL APPRECIATED! by Catherine Oak At your next general staff meeting, ask your people what they can do to get each client they see to feel appreciated. Have a leader ga...

A few months ago, a client came to us with a last-minute project that required the services of...

“Moments of truth” occurs whenever CSRs and producers talk to a customer on the phone or in person. It’s important that each member of the agency be prepared for this contact. The impression left with the client or prospect will determine their future relationship with your agency. Because the ultimate goal of any business is to obtain and retain customers, it’s essential for you to create the proper image at the moment of truth. Some of the key factors in managing the moment of truth are:

Most agencies are automated, some even using their second or third generation of automation. Many agencies load their policy data into the system, interface with their carriers and rarely access their paper files. Few agencies, however, are taking advantage of a well-managed client database. Gathering meaningful data that you can regularly manipulate is the key to successful database management.

Jack Fries looks into the differences between agencies that sell and retain a lot of business and those that don't. This applies to not only the sales people, but to the CSRs, who have the responsibility of account development.

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MANAGING THE CLAIMS HANDLING PROCESS by Catherine Oak The claims function in a firm is usually handled in one of two ways: 1. CSRs or the producers handle the client's claims from...

Before purchasing a car, computer, copier, or equipment, businesses do the usual due diligence. They do research, make comparisons, and then decide on the most appropriate product with the best value. John Graham explains why research is required before making an extensive marketing investment.