How Do I Become a Brokerage General Agent?

A brokerage general agent is an independent professional who sells insurance products to brokers and sometimes directly to clients. In some cases, a general agent might work on commission, and at other times he or she might accept a flat rate from an insurance company. There is no special degree that you need to become a brokerage general agent, though many who enter this profession do have backgrounds in fields such as finance, economics, or management. More importantly, an individual who would like to become a brokerage general agent should have a strong understanding of the specific insurance agency with which he or she works.

In most regions, a person who would like to become a brokerage general agent is required to earn professional certification. Even in situations when certification is not required, individuals should aim to receive this credential. Professional courses offer great opportunities to network with other professionals and learn about new practices, products, and insurance trends. Once you pass a necessary proficiency exam and earn your certification, you can appear as a more accomplished professional to clients and brokerage firms.

An individual who would like to become a brokerage general agent should have experience working in a relevant context. A data entry position at a health insurance company, for example, can serve as a valuable introduction to many aspects of health insurance. This experience can make learning about insurance company practices and structure a much easier process.

A brokerage general agent works independently to sell insurance products for insurance companies to brokers. This means that once you have achieved the necessary experience and certification, you should begin reading about different contracts offered by insurance providers. In many cases, contracts can cover the work you do for at least half of a year. Make sure that you are comfortable with commission or flat payment rates, as well as other terms, before you commit to brokering insurance products.

Many experienced brokerage general agents suggest that individuals who are new to the career join professional organizations. These groups offer support to agents who are just starting out. They also enable professionals to network with established professionals who may be able to give new agents helpful tips.

After you have insurance to sell to brokers and other clients, you should begin marketing your services. How you proceed depends largely on the specific insurance products you are selling. For example, an auto insurance agent might work differently from a health insurance agent. In all cases, however, introducing yourself to local businesspeople and placing phone calls are good starts.