Every day I hear from insurance agents that want to generate leads from social media, BUT they don’t see how to make it work. They’ve tried hooking up their Facebook page to automatic posts from their company and heard nothing but chirping crickets.
So HOW do you actually see new business from social media when you’re an insurance agent?
You network!
There are several different kinds of networking that you can do to grow your influence, reach, and engagement. Let’s look at the best choices for your agency. Now this stuff will require you to get out of the office and talk to people, but it will build your ONLINE leads at the same time! I’ll show you how…
#1 Personal Networking
Personal networking is the kind that doesn’t look like you’re trying to sell insurance. It’s simply you getting out and helping others in ways that are related to your life and the things that matter to you.
If you have kids or grandkids, you might coach a sports team, help with the PTA, or lead a scout group.
If you go to church, you might lead a Sunday class or mission group.
If you are passionate about a non-profit, you could sit on their board or run a fundraiser.
These are all things that connect to YOU as a person. And guess what? People like authenticity, especially online! And when people connect to you personally, they’ll naturally think of you when they need insurance.
#2 Business Networking
Here you want to focus on the places where you might actually generate leads…and it’s typically NOT general business networking events. If you enjoy that kind of thing, then go! But if it’s not paying off, it’s time to get more strategic.
Some of the best places for agents to network involve real estate agents and mortgage lenders. Check out your local real estate board to find out their meeting schedule.
Also look at your local Chamber of Commerce to find out about lead groups. These are usually smaller luncheon-style groups with only a few people who come together on a regular basis to share leads. These can be an excellent referral network, but you’ll need to dedicate a lot of time to make them work. You can also look for a local BNI chapter.
#3 Staff Networking
You’re not the only one in your office who needs to be networking. Everyone who sells needs to be actively connecting with leads!
Have each member of your team choose an organization to get involved in. (I would urge everyone to choose something from the #1 category of personal networking.) Here’s where you get involved…you’re going to HELP them make this happen. Get the events on the group calendar, let them leave early when needed, stay involved in what is going on, and help them develop their networking skills. This will pay off for you too!
#4 Connect The Dots
Last step? Connect the dots and LEVERAGE your networking time. Find your real-life networking connections on Facebook or Linked In. Keep in touch and get to know people through social media.
Post photos and share what you’re doing in the community with your friends and followers. Have your staff do the same!
This strategy alone with generate new leads quickly. And I’ll show you how to super-charge it on Thursday, so check back here on the blog!
Need Help?
If you’re ready to generate leads through networking and social media, I want to help! We’ll write customized social media content for your agency designed to leverage your networking efforts and get you more leads. Get details on Mega Posts here.
