Mayfield Village, Ohio - Young independent insurance agents identify technology to help them more easily write business and service customers as the second most important thing – after competitive rates – carriers can offer an independent insurance agency. Drive Insurance Group of Mayfield Village, Ohio-based Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. discovered this while conducting a survey of more than 750 young (40 years of age or younger or those who have been in the industry less than 10 years) independent agents to find out what they think about everything from business growth opportunities and technology to the skills necessary to succeed and the challenges faced by the industry.Drive insurance conducted the survey to coincide with the National Young Agents Leadership Institute, put on by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, which gets underway in New Orleans next week.
The majority of young independent insurance agents (79%) say technology has been significant in helping them grow their business.
Other results from the survey showed 11% of young independent insurance agents have an interactive Web site where customers can quote, buy and contact them. Thirty-four percent have a static Web site where people can learn more about their agency and the services they provide, and 40% don't have a Web site at all.
When asked to name the top technologies they use to manage/grow their business, young independent insurance agents answered:
1. Carrier Web sites
2. Agency management system
3. Downloads from carriers
4. Real-time interfaces with carriers
5. Comparative raters
6. The Internet for prospecting, selling or informational purposes
Source: The Progressive Group of Insurance Cos.
