How to Change Your Life for the Better

As you have probably noticed, the amount of advice you find online on how to change your life for the better is immense.

However, achieving a happy life usually falls into 2 categories.

1. Find something you are passionate about that won't feel like work.

2. Find something you can make money at.

While numbers may vary, research seems to indicate that only 20% of all workers are actually passionate about their jobs or careers. So what about the 80%?

If you fall into the 80% category, much like the rest of us, then finding something you can make money at is the best option to pursue. There's an old saying, "Find something you love to do, and the money will follow. If you can't find that, then find something you can make money at and do that."

Why should you follow that sort of advice? Having money leads to a much better life than not having it. Money won't make you happy but it sure as hell helps a lot!

Great advice, you may be saying, but what should you do to make more money that can change your life for the better? I could just become an Uber driver and make extra money. True, but we are not talking about making a few hundred or a few thousand dollars here. That's not money that will make your life better in the long run. 

No, we are talking about making money in the 100k range or more. That's money that can really change your life.

One highly effective way to significantly improve your financial situation is to become an insurance agent. This career path not only offers lucrative earning potential but also provides the flexibility to manage your own business and create a better work-life balance.

In this article will explore the steps to becoming an independent insurance agent, the benefits of this career, and practical tips to succeed in the industry.

Understanding the Role of an Insurance Agent

An insurance agent is a professional who sells insurance policies and other financial products to individuals and businesses. There are two types of insurance agents: captive agents, who work exclusively for one insurance company, and independent agents, who represent multiple companies. As an insurance agent, your primary responsibilities include:

• Assessing clients' insurance needs and recommending suitable policies
• Explaining policy features, benefits, and costs to clients
• Processing applications and policy renewals
• Handling claims and assisting clients in the event of a loss
• Building and maintaining a client base through networking and marketing

We will primarily look at the independent agent option as we truly believe it gives an individual more flexible options to achieve a better life.

Why Becoming an Insurance Agent Can Change Your Life

Financial Independence: Insurance agents often work on a commission basis, meaning your income potential is directly tied to your performance. Successful agents can earn substantial incomes, with top performers making six-figure salaries or more.

Flexibility: As an insurance agent, you have the opportunity to set your own schedule and work as an independent contractor. This flexibility allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to pursue other interests or side projects.

Personal Growth: The skills you develop as an insurance agent—such as sales, communication, and customer service—are highly transferable and valuable in many other career paths. Additionally, the process of building and managing your own business fosters entrepreneurial skills and self-discipline.

Helping Others: Insurance agents play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses protect their assets and manage risks. The satisfaction of knowing you are making a positive impact on your clients' lives can be incredibly rewarding.

Build An Agency Or Just Produce: You have the flexibility of building your own agency without the need to hire employees or just sell policies yourself. You don't need a brick-and-mortar store or large marketing department to generate leads for you.

Steps to Become an Insurance Agent

1. Research the Industry: Before embarking on a career as an insurance agent, it's essential to understand the industry and the different types of insurance you can sell. Common categories include life insurance, health insurance, property and casualty insurance, and commercial insurance.

2. Meet Educational Requirements: While a college degree is not always required, having a background in business, finance, or a related field can be advantageous. Many insurance companies offer training programs to help new agents get started. At The Walls Agency, in partnership with Symmetry Financial Group, you get training, automated lead generation and support from the moment you join the group.

3. Obtain a License: To sell insurance, you must be licensed in your state. Licensing requirements vary, but generally, you must complete pre-licensing education, pass a state exam, and submit a licensing application. Continuing education is often required to maintain your license. We give you access to the specific training you need and get it at a discount for you to get started.

4. Gain Experience: Unlike traditional insurance agencies, The Walls Agency and Symmetry Financial Group supply you with the leads you need to become successful. There is usually a minimum charge for each lead, but we love this aspect of the business as it doesn't require us to chase down family and friends just to sell them policies to get started. 

5. Build Your Business: Once you have the necessary experience, you may choose to start your own insurance agency. This involves talking to other like-minded people to join your agency and do the exact same thing you are doing. They would work under your agency as independent agents and receive a 1099. 

Tips for Succeeding as an Insurance Agent

1. Develop Strong Sales Skills: Success as an insurance agent largely depends on your ability to sell policies and build relationships with clients. Unlike traditional insurance agencies, where you will likely need to invest in sales training, lead generation and practice your pitch regularly, we have the tools, scripts and lead generation and software automation to get you started and selling policies very quickly.

2. Focus on Customer Service: Providing exceptional customer service can set you apart from competitors. Be responsive, attentive, and proactive in addressing your clients' needs and concerns.

3. Stay Informed: The insurance industry is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date on industry trends, regulatory changes, and new products to provide the best advice to your clients. Our automated programs keep you abreast of industry changes.

5. Use Technology: Leverage technology to streamline your operations and improve client interactions. Customer relationship management (CRM) software, online quoting tools, and social media platforms can help you manage your business more efficiently. With traditional agencies, these could be additional costs you weren't planning for and get can be expensive to use.

6. Continue Your Education: We have lots of resources to keep your education up to speed. As part of our professional approach to the agents under us, we hold weekly meetings on various topics to keep agents engaged and give them connection and engagement opportunities.

7. Set Goals and Track Progress: Establish clear, measurable goals for your business and regularly track your progress. This will help you stay focused and motivated while identifying areas for improvement.

What To Do Next

Becoming an insurance agent offers a unique opportunity to change your life for the better by providing financial independence, career flexibility, and personal growth. By following the steps outlined in this article and implementing the tips for success, you can build a rewarding and profitable career in the insurance industry. Remember, the key to success lies in your dedication, continuous learning, and commitment to providing exceptional service to your clients.

Lets Talk About Your Future

Book a time to talk with me about how we can help you change your life for the better.