the leading authority on insurance agency productivity, technology & profits
Just like you, each week I receive e-mails and read articles from many different business and marketing experts. A common theme I've noticed is experts (either in their own e-mails or in articles from respected trade journals) proclaiming one marketing method as the only way that insurance agents should market. It goes something like this: "Video marketing clobbers all other types of marketing; ignore it at your own peril." "Facebook is the … [Read more...]
1) It is affordable! For less than the cost of a typical night's stay in a hotel, you get deluxe accommodations, sumptuous food 24 hours a day, myriad amenities, and exotic ports of call. 2) It is tax deductible! The cruise will have pleasure time, for sure, but it really is about your business and features several conference sessions, so it is a deductible and truly is a genuine business expense. 3) It will give your business a formidable … [Read more...]
I spend a lot of time talking about generational differences. This infographic from the Pew Research Center is very interesting. It shows the results of a survey they conducted looking at generations and the gadgets they own. Click on the graphic to get the full details... Click on the graphic to get the full details... … [Read more...]
Understanding consumer behavior is a key to making sure your agency will continue to prosper. In this TED talk by John Gerzema, co-author of the book The Brand Bubble, he says there's an upside to the recent financial crisis -- the opportunity for positive change. Speaking at TEDxKC, he identifies four major cultural shifts driving new consumer behavior and shows how businesses are evolving to connect with thoughtful spending. How is your … [Read more...]
In a previous post I stated the case for why an agency that wants to grow must have a comprehensive marketing system. I ended with this paragraph: Technology is available to help you manage your marketing system. The first step is to understand the need for marketing. Then, create a marketing strategy for the agency, implement that strategy, and monitor its effectiveness. If you do all of these things, you can't help but become more … [Read more...]
Over the last few months, I’ve been working on a new marketing program for personal lines and small commercial business. (The personal lines program is scheduled to be released on May 1). As a result, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how important a successful marketing program is for an agency's long-term health. It seems as though agencies are beginning to understand how important marketing should be, based on the phone calls I'm … [Read more...]
I have been involved in one way or another with the Agent’s Council for Technology (ACT) since its inception in the mid 90’s. ACT is a partnership of independent agents, companies, technology vendors, user groups, and associations dedicated to enhancing the use of technology and improved work flows within the Independent Agency System. ACT held their fall meeting in conjunction with the IIABA Leadership Conference in New Orleans in … [Read more...]
