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Insurance Agent

Also known as Authorised Representative.

Insurance agents represent insurance companies and sell insurance to clients, including individuals and organisations.

Some insurance agents are also licensed financial planners and/or investment advisers.

TASKS

Insurance agents may perform the following tasks:

draw up lists of clients from a variety of sources
contact potential clients, usually by telephone, to arrange interviews
research new insurance products to assist current and potential clients in making choices
interview clients to identify their insurance needs and how insurance policies might meet those needs
write an insurance recommendation list or plan to assist the client to make an informed decision
explain policy details to clients, including the risks for which they are covered, the rates and the benefits
recommend an appropriate amount and type of cover to individual clients
collect premiums and keep records of payments
regularly review clients' circumstances to ensure the level of insurance is appropriate
assist clients in the event of a claim
negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of clients

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good communication skills
good interpersonal skills
perseverance and motivation
aptitude for working with figures
confidence in selling products
neat personal appearance

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as an insurance agent without formal qualifications, but most employers usually require you to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in general insurance or financial services. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become an insurance agent through a traineeship in Financial Services or General Insurance.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Financial Services Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

The insurance industry is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Depending on the services that an insurance agent provides, they may need to be registered with ASIC or required to hold an Australian Financial Services (AFS) licence. You can only provide financial advice to clients if you hold the appropriate qualifications. Details can be found at the ASIC website.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Insurance agents usually represent a particular insurance company. They may work in either city or country areas.

Most insurance agents work on a commission basis, with the level of business dependent upon the level of general economic activity. However, earnings and continued employment in this occupation depend on both ability and experience.