Five skills every new insurance agent should build

Your license gets you started. These five skills help you succeed.

1. Listening first

Ask questions and let clients explain their situation before recommending anything. The right coverage starts with understanding what matters to them.

2. Explaining clearly

Insurance is full of jargon. Agents who can explain coverage in plain English earn trust. Read more: FAIR Plan glossary: insurance terms in plain English.

3. Following up

Return calls quickly, send what you promised and check in at renewal. Reliable follow-up is one of the simplest ways to stand out.

4. Staying organized

Keep good notes, track deadlines and use your agency's systems consistently. It protects your clients and saves you time.

5. Learning continuously

Products, rules and the market keep changing. Ohio agents complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including 3 hours of ethics — but the best agents keep learning beyond the minimum.

Read more: What does an insurance agent do all day?

By Unquoting Insurance Company. This article is general information, not advice for your specific situation. Coverage and eligibility vary by state and policy — call (888) 928-9324 to talk with a licensed Insurance Agent.