Expert: George Harris, Jr. - 10/14/2004

Question
Hello George,
What's the best way that one can become an independent insurance agent today? I used to sell a little life/health in early 90s for a captive company and then as a sub agent for an independent. I eventually felt I'd rather purchase my own "fresh" leads and keep my clients private. I went off into over the road trucking, but work local now and would like to sell, if possible, from my own home, but part-time as an independent agent.
Are there any good companys I could get contracts with which would not impose sales "quotas" on me? Is there a way to find a listing of them anywhere? I remember there used to be some good little hospital and cancer indemnity policys out there.
If I sell insurance again, I just want to do it part time, have some fun, slowly build things up, and not have any quotas pressing on me.
I sincerely thank you for any advise.

Sincerely,

Mike Eidson

Answer
Mike:

If you are going to sell life and major medical i would not consider doing that on a part time basis.  Everything is changing so fast that you would be asking for an E & O claim.  As for supplemental policies and such--I would go to the library and get copies of "Life Insurance Selling"  and "Broker World" magazines.  In there you will find several ads for companies and products.  Call and talk to their marketing dept and see what is available in your state.

Good luck,


George