Getting a new carrier appointment is not just about needing more markets. Carriers want to see that an agency has the experience, production potential, business plan, pipeline, and professionalism to support a strong long-term relationship.
In this episode of Licensed to Talk Insurance, Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin-Ramsey are joined by Jenny McNulty, Vice President at Chicagoland SIA, to discuss what carriers look for when evaluating independent agencies for new appointments. Jenny shares perspective from both sides of the carrier relationship, including her past experience on the carrier side and her current work helping Chicagoland SIA member agencies grow.
They discuss why agents should be strategic about the carriers they pursue, how production requirements affect new appointments, why organic new business matters, and how tools like Access Plus can help agencies test markets before pursuing direct contracts.
This conversation is especially helpful for newer agency owners, captive agents considering the independent channel, producers building a book, and established agencies deciding when it makes sense to seek additional carrier relationships.