The pandemic brought many changes in 2020 that no one could have predicted.
Now, as we look toward 2021, we recognize some important trends that emerged during the pandemic, that we predict will still be relevant in the future.
1. Virtual meetings are here to stay.
Trust is critical for selling life and annuities and many agents worried that they wouldn’t be able to achieve the same personal connection with clients in a virtual setting in 2020.
(Related: PUNCH Up Your Virtual Networking Meetings)
That concern was unfounded.
It turns out that clients have no problem, and some even prefer the convenience of engaging with their agents via video conference. In 2021, this trend shows no signs of slowing. Agents and clients will continue to embrace virtual meetings out of convenience, not necessity, and in-person meetings won’t return to their pre-pandemic frequency.
2. The digital land grab is on.
Customers have moved more toward the digital channel for every shopping experience, and looking for insurance is no different. When a potential customer looks online for information on this important decision, what pops up first will be what leads them to an agent. Agents that have the largest digital footprint (websites, podcasts, social media, webinars, blogs, etc.) will be easy for consumers to find online when they start doing their research.