Insurance sales can be a challenging but rewarding career, providing the opportunity to help individuals and businesses protect themselves from financial risks. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in insurance sales, here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of landing a job in this field.
Gain Relevant Skills and Knowledge
Insurance sales jobs require a combination of strong interpersonal skills, knowledge of insurance products, and sales expertise. Many insurance companies require a college degree, although some may accept relevant work experience in place of formal education.
Consider obtaining a degree in business, finance, or a related field, or taking courses in sales techniques and insurance products. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides an overview of the skills and education typically required for insurance sales jobs.
Build Your Network
Networking is an essential part of any job search, and insurance sales is no exception. Connect with insurance professionals on LinkedIn, attend industry conferences and events, and consider joining industry groups such as the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA).
Building your network can help you learn about job openings and potentially make valuable connections within the industry. Consider reaching out to insurance professionals in your area and asking for informational interviews. These meetings can help you learn more about the industry, gain insight into the skills and experience required for different roles, and potentially make valuable connections.
Get Licensed
In order to sell insurance, you will need to obtain a state-issued insurance license. The requirements for obtaining a license vary by state, but typically involve completing pre-licensing education, passing a state exam, and meeting other state-specific requirements. You can find information on the specific requirements for your state on the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) website.
Apply for Insurance Sales Jobs
Once you have gained the necessary skills and knowledge, built your network, and obtained your license, it’s time to start applying for insurance sales jobs. Look for job postings on job search websites like Indeed and Glassdoor.
When applying for insurance sales jobs, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job and company you are applying for. Highlight your relevant skills and experience, and demonstrate how you can add value to the company. The PayScale website provides information on average salaries for insurance sales agents.
Consider Insurance Sales Certifications
Obtaining an insurance sales certification can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Some popular insurance sales certifications include the Life and Annuities Certified Professional (LACP) certification and the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation.
While certifications are not always required, they can help you demonstrate your commitment to the field and show that you are willing to invest in your career development. The Insurance Careers Trifecta website provides information on various insurance sales certifications.
