Insurance Sales Careers
Are you looking for an exciting career with a high earning potential that also allows the flexibility to make your own schedule? Do you like working with people and making meaningful connections? If so, insurance sales may be the perfect path for you.
Job Description
Insurance sales jobs fall into two main categories: agents, who can sell for just one insurance carrier (typically called captive agents) or a group of carriers (typically called independent agents); and brokers, who arrange deals between insurance carriers and buyers, which can be individuals or companies.
Sales representatives get to spend a lot of time connecting with people and building relationships. Those just starting their sales career will thrive on the challenge and excitement of making new connections and finding ways to solve business challenges for prospects. And while a background in insurance or previous sales experience is helpful, you don’t need specialized knowledge to begin, making sales a great role to start your path.
Those further along in their career tend to have an established client base, which allows them to make their own schedules. Some seasoned professionals even branch out and start their own independent agency or brokerage. From great work-life balance to entrepreneurship options, insurance sales makes an excellent long-term career choice.
Required Skills
- Self-confidence
- Interpersonal skills
- Organization
- Time and project management
- Independence
- Relationship-building
Degree Required?
No
Most sales jobs come with plenty of on-the-job training. Some insurance sales professionals start with bachelor’s degrees, particularly in business or finance, but it’s not essential.
Additional Education
Insurance sales agents must be licensed by the states in which they operate. This requires passing an examination, often after meeting state specific pre-licensure requirements. Many companies will help you prepare for and pass the test. In addition to your license, you may want to pursue some designations that help solidify your expertise.
Preferred Previous Experience
While previous sales experience is helpful, it isn’t usually required.
Earning Potential: $60,000-$112,000
Salary varies based on previous experience, seniority, company and geographic location.
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