How to Become an Independent Agent

Social networking is part of an agent's job.

If you are fiercely independent and love people, sales and travel, a career as an independent agent may be ideal for you. You may become an insurance agent, a travel agent or a literary agent, for example. As an independent agent, you champion the interests of your clients by working with a variety of related organizations. You work primarily on commission, although you may be sponsored by an affiliated organization.

Instructions

1. Develop your client list by advertising your services where potential clients may find them. For example, if you are selling insurance, advertise your services with local hospitals and health-care organizations. If you are an independent travel agent, advertise at airports, shopping centers and your local Chamber of Commerce. Literary agents may advertise their services in related publishing periodicals.

2. Maintain relationships with current clients with consistent communication in the form of emails and phone calls. Be available to answer all related questions in the field in which you are an agent. Inspire confidence by being reliable and accountable.

3. Ask every client for at least three referrals for people they know who might need your services. Referrals are one of the most effective ways to increase sales because people tend to trust someone who is referred by friends or business associates more than a stranger. Solicit more customers from the referrals of existing customers to increase your sales exponentially.

4. Maintain and update regularly a professional website featuring your services as an independent agent so that potential clients may find you. Distribute business cards that emulate your website with the same logo and contact information. Attend associated events and seminars to increase your business network and expertise.

Tips & Warnings

• For those who choose to become an independent insurance agent, you will need to pass a state exam, with at least a 70 percent or higher score, to work in that state. You will need to take a 36-hour course that can be completed in one week, either online or in your own home with approved materials. You will also need to decide whether you want to sell life insurance, health insurance or both. If you choose to become an independent travel or literary agent, for example, there are no licenses or exams involved.

• If you choose to become an independent life insurance agent, you also may be required to have a health-producer's license as many life insurance products contain health components.

References

• Adler & Robin Books, Inc.: FAQ on Literary Agents and Publishing
• Scriptologist; An Interview With Literary Agent Caren Bohrman; Glenn Bossile; September 2005
• Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America: Literary Agents
• Insurance Independent: Captive and Independent Insurance Agent Opportunities
• Home Based Travel Agents: Become a Home-Based Travel Agent
• Global Travel: Become a Travel Agent: FAQ

Resources

• Writers & Artists: Catherine Clarke
• Accuterm: How to Become a Licensed Life Insurance Agent