In 2016, United Parcel Service conducted a survey of more than 5,000 online shoppers. The results showed for the first time in U.S. history, consumers made more non-grocery purchases online than they made in-store (source). Another study conducted in 2015, showed that 7 out of 10 people went online to conduct research about a product before making a purchase (source).
What do these statistics have to do with the insurance industry?
With potential clients increasingly going online to research or buy insurance products, it’s becoming more and more essential for agents to build an online presence to grow their existing client base, and provide easily accessible tools resources for current and future prospects.
What are some of the benefits of having a website?
1.) Referrals
It is much easier for a client to refer you if you have a website. When you have a website, your potential customer can view your online profile along with any reviews associated with your business even before he or she decides to call. More importantly, your new client will have a valid understanding of the types of products you offer before you speak to them for the first time.
2.) More business
A company called Verisign researched how many people rely on the internet to locate goods and services. Their study found that 9 out of 10 consumers conduct an internet search to locate and evaluate goods and services (source). Given this statistic, it’s easy to see how having a website that is optimized for search engines will help you gain more clients. Furthermore, if your website has a quote tool, you can ask potential clients to provide their contact information with a simple web form, thereby helping you capture leads and earn more clients!
3.) Credibility
A study conducted in 2015 reported that “84% of consumers believe that small businesses with websites are more credible than ones without an online presence” (source). Having a website gives your potential clients confidence in your ability to offer them the products they need.
4.) Advertising
With a website, you have the ability to promote your business through online paid advertising services such as Google AdWords. With online advertising, you can set your own budget, therefore if you are looking for an inexpensive way to grow your insurance sales, this could be your answer. Unlike print advertising, when you place an ad online, you can set your audience and keyword preferences to target a specific audience, (ie: people who are turning 65 for Medicare Advantage plans or Medicare Supplement sales).
5. Getting Started
If you’re ready to get started on your website, check out these helpful related posts:
