Written by: Shannon Stockdale
Edited by: Dave Weaver
What is the value of a local independent insurance agent? If you can secure yourself coverage in 15 minutes over the phone or Internet then why does our profession still exist? Is insurance REALLY this simple? If it is why are agents required to be licensed by the State of New York? Why do agents have to complete continuing education in order to maintain that license?
An insurance policy is a legal contract. The contract being an agreement between you and the insurance company. The insured paying a premium to the company guarantees they will provide you with the means necessary to replace what you have lost, to make you whole again. But, the insurance company does not agree to replace whatever you have lost under any circumstance. This is where that contract comes into play. It is an agreement made up of "if" and "but" and "except." You may pay $100 or $1,000 for an insurance policy but if it does not provide you with the coverage you need than it is essentially worthless.
Your insurance agent is your advocate both at the purchase of the policy as well as when a loss occurs. Your agent is your consultant, working with you to determine your insurance needs and keeping those needs met as they change throughout your lifetime. An agent is a value-hunter always looking to ensure your policies are priced competitively while providing complete coverage. Your personal insurance agent is committed to your satisfaction. Quite honestly, their livelihood is dependant upon it. Where customer service has gone by the way side in a lot of today's industries, you won't find this at your local agency.
All the insurance professionals that I know take an active role in their community. We are soccer and little league coaches. We are involved in Rotary and other community organizations. We volunteer our time at nursing homes and community events. Your agent is a member of your community invested in it's betterment and taking an active role in propelling that positive impact.
Choosing a local insurance agent is choosing to spend your dollars locally. The big difference between direct writers and insurance companies working with an independent agent is how they spend your premiums. Direct writers dump millions of dollars into advertising, they invest in fancy commercials and creative marketing ploys. Our companies invest those dollars into professional agents. A lot of times you will find a competitive rate at your local insurance agency with the added benefit of a real live person to talk to.
At the Gordon B. Roberts Agency as agents we enjoy working with people to satisfy their insurance needs at an affordable premium and make that a pleasant experience. We are here after you purchase the policy to service and maintain your coverage. You don't have to dial an 800 number to find us. You won't be forced to select 1 for billing information or 2 for claims. You won't get stuck on hold when you have a question.
We are independent agents working with multiple carriers providing an ease in transition when switching to a carrier that may offer a lower rate upon renewal (but NOT a sacrifice in coverage). When you work with a local independent agent you have the competitive edge of a personal insurance shopper! An agent will review your coverage to ensure it stays in line with current industry standards. Bottom line, your agent is there when you need them and that my friends can be invaluable.
