To become an insurance agent first you have to obtain license to operate in your state. So, just start taking the classes to get the license. The department of insurance of your state can help you in this regard. Also some insurer may recruit freshers and put them through the licensing procedure with on job training. IMO that's a good opportunity.
A graduation degree in business or economics can help you finding an employment in the insurance industry. Additionally, the knowledge of accountancy and computer is necessary.
After obtaining the license you can either start as an independent agent by starting your own agency or can become captive.
An independent agent can work for multiple insurance companies simultaneously and can offer better alternatives to his customers, whereas, a captive agent can only sell the products of the company he/she is associated with.
Though the prospect of owning an agency sounds great, many new agent prefer starting their career as captive agent as it helps them to set their foot easily in the competitive industry of insurance.
Are you licensed? if not then you have to do what Juanita has suggested, go and get the license first.
However, if you are licensed then you need to apply to the local insurance companies to get appointment. You have to face the interview and screening and once you clear these rounds the insurance company will run a background check on you, which will reveal your personal, financial and employment related information. They will also check whether you had any criminal record or not.
For independent agents, the only earning is through the commissions from the sell of the policies. On the other hand, the captive agents earn fixed remuneration from the insurance company.
One thing to take note of on P&C, you pretty much have to either be a captive agent or work through an independent agency for a few years before getting appointed directly with any reputable carriers. The E&O is steep as well. _________________ www.insureswohio.com www.retirementswohio.com
You are right, especially if you are just starting out. It's best to work with someone to get the experience as well. It's not like when you are getting appointed with Life & Health.
