Independent Agents can help during a Soft Market The recession may be over, but the soft market isn’t. Nonetheless, whenever the market moves and whatever direction it takes, independent insurance agents and brokers are well positioned to take advantage of market shifts. That is a message a panel of presidents from insurance industry carriers shared with young agent leaders from around the country last fall during the Big I Young Agents Leadership Institute held in San Francisco. Panelists weighed in on a variety of topics affecting independent agents, including the economy, the soft market, social media and marketing. While experts report the U. S. has emerged from the recession, the panelists agreed that agents and consumers are not yet seeing the results. Difficult economic conditions provide a chance for independent agents to reaffirm their value to consumers. Regardless of whether agencies choose to specialize or diversify the products offered, all agreed that embracing social media as part of a holistic marketing strategy is critical for success. “Social media will replace some of the traditional ways we think about referral and marketing” stated by one panelist. Consumers need to find independent agents in their online research, usually a local search. Panelists agreed that local independent agents need to reinforce their basic value as advisor. As consumers move to electronic communications independent agents must provide the same quality advice through these new technologies.

Excerpts taken from Texas Surplus Line Reporter, October 2010.

It is our philosophy at CNC Insurance to act as your professional advisor. During a soft market, we will continue to offer the best coverage or insurance policy available at the best price. It is our job to know what is being offered by a variety of companies, let us do the shopping for you.