Being a professional brings many rewards. Probably the most important reward is that the individual distinguished himself/herself from the other insurance population. Instead of clients regarding one as just being an agent placing policies (like countless others) the insurance professional, with the various industry designations, is viewed differently. Clients view insurance professionals as those who made a commitment to their profession. The added recognition will help the insurance professional expand his/her business. Another reward with being a professional would be the status and stature that one enjoys within the community. People tend to look at professionals as community leaders. All of us would rather speak with an accountant or with a CPA, about possible tax implications on our income, than a bookkeeper who has a basic high school degree. Insurance professionals are treated the same way. Why ask for advice about important insurance coverages from an insurance agent when a Chartered Life Underwriter or Chartered Financial Consultant lives in the same community? Yes, status and stature are very important.
Another advantage of being a professional is the lucrative benefits to be gained. Countless studies have been done indicating the income spread between the higher echelon insurance professional and the rank and file agent. We are not speaking of agents who attain the “million dollar table” or “top of the table” distinction. These members earn more because they sell more. The point being emphasized is that insurance professionals, with some type of designation, historically have earned more. Why? Simply put, those individuals made a time commitment to their business and have been rewarded for doing so.
Another reward for being a professional is the intangible benefit knowing that the advice given could help others reach their personal and financial goals. Just as a doctor is
rewarded with the knowledge that he/she can heal a sick person, the insurance professional, armed with academic and technical knowledge, realizes that he/she can be instrumental in helping people plan for premature deaths, disability and emergencies. Also, the insurance professional will play a major role in preparing clients for wonderful retirements.
Yes, being a professional has many awards. It is demanding and requires many hours beyond the normal hours of business. It also requires a strong code of ethics and higher academic standards. However, it offers those individuals an opportunity to build lucrative practices, achieve independence through extensive prospecting techniques and leads to public recognition that cannot be emphasized enough.
Illinois Insurance Continuing Education
Insurance Continuing Education
