If you’ve ever left a voicemail, sent an email, or followed up with a potential client only to hear silence, you’re not alone. Independent insurance agents often struggle to get responses, but the problem isn’t just about busy prospects—it’s about how we frame our requests.
Enter the Because Effect, a powerful psychological principle that can dramatically improve your outreach and get more prospects to take action.
Harvard psychologist Ellen Langer conducted a famous study where people asked to cut in line at a copier. When they simply asked, “Can I cut in line?” only 60% agreed. But when they added a reason—“Can I cut in line because I’m in a rush?”—compliance jumped to 94%.
The key insight? People are more likely to comply with a request when given a reason—even if the reason is basic.
Your prospects are bombarded with emails, calls, and marketing messages every day. If your outreach doesn’t clearly explain why they should respond, they’ll ignore it.
By adding a compelling because statement to your messages, you create urgency, relevance, and a stronger reason for action.
❌ Weak Message: “I’d love to set up a time to discuss your insurance needs.”
✅ Strong Message: “I’d love to set up a time to discuss your insurance needs because I have insights on how other businesses like yours are saving money on their policies.”
❌ Weak Voicemail: “Hi [Name], just following up on my last email. Give me a call when you can.”
✅ Strong Voicemail: “Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up because I recently helped a client in your industry improve their coverage. I’d love to share how we did it.”
❌ Weak Follow-up Email: “Just checking in to see if you’re interested in discussing your insurance.”
✅ Strong Follow-up Email: “I’m reaching out because I came across an exclusive insurance program that could be a great fit for your business. Let’s set up a quick call to go over it.
Not all reasons are created equal. To maximize responses, make sure your because statement is:
Next time you leave a voicemail or send an email, add a strong because statement. You’ll be surprised at how a simple shift in language can lead to more responses, more conversations, and ultimately, more clients.