Starting an insurance career is exciting—but it takes more than a license and a lead list to make it last. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to level up, the right habits, skills, and mindset make all the difference. That’s why we’ve pulled together top insurance career tips that help agents grow, adapt, and thrive in an ever-changing insurance market.
At Midwestern Marketing, we’ve worked with insurance agents across the country for years. We know what works, what doesn’t, and how to help you build a lasting, rewarding career path in the insurance sector.
Build A Strong Foundation
You wouldn’t build a house without a sturdy foundation — and your insurance career is no different. Start with your state licensing course, then go deeper with product-specific certifications and designations from top carriers. Focus on areas like Medicare, life insurance, annuities, or final expense—whatever aligns with your long-term career goals. Carrier portals often offer free, on-demand training videos, so take full advantage. Also, make time for sales and compliance training, since knowing how to close a deal ethically is just as important as knowing insurance product.
Once your training is in motion, the next key move is to seek mentorship. Look for insurance professionals who have been in the industry for at least a few years and work in a market or product link you’re pursuing. You can connect through industry events, carrier trainings, or online agent communities on social media platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn.
One of the best insurance career tips? Never stop asking questions. Curiosity leads to clarity – and clarity builds confidence. Confidence closes deals.
Choose the Right Market and Product Focus
Not every product or client base fits every agent. That’s why choosing the right market and product focus matters. Do you want to help young families with life insurance? Are you drawn to Medicare, annuities, or final expense policies?
Start by assessing your strengths and interests. Then study your local insurance market, what do people need most? Do clients need help understanding insurance coverage, or navigating insurance claims? When you match your skills with real needs, success and profitability follow faster.
Midwestern Marketing offers support across a range of carriers and products. We help agents discover what suits them best so they can build a career that lasts.
Manage Time and Set Realistic Goals
Time can feel like your biggest enemy in this business—but with the right approach, it becomes your biggest tool. Smart time management is one of the most overlooked insurance career tips.
Block time on your calendar for prospecting, client follow-ups, training, and admin tasks. Set small, achievable goals each week. Don’t just aim to “sell more”—aim to call 10 prospects a day, schedule 5 meetings, or follow up with 3 past clients. Specific goals create momentum.
Also, build in time to recharge. Burnout is common in high-pressure insurance jobs. You’ll be more productive when you’re not running on empty.
Build Strong Relationships
People buy from people they trust. That’s why relationship-building stands at the heart of long-term success.
Start with your client relationships. Stay in touch, remember their birthdays, and follow up even after the sale. Check in during policy renewals or life events. A simple text or call can lead to new business or referrals down the road.
Then build connections with referral partners—like realtors, mortgage brokers, CPAs, or even a claims adjuster or underwriter. Offer value before asking for anything in return. Over time, these partnerships can create steady lead sources.
Strong communication skills will set you apart in a world where trust is everything.
Embrace Ongoing Learning
The insurance industry never stands still. New types of insurance policies launch, regulations shift, and client needs change. If you want to discover new opportunities and stay competitive, you must stay curious.
Make continuing education part of your routine. Read industry blogs, watch webinars, attend carrier trainings, and stay plugged into industry trends. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in front of clients—and that confidence shows.
At Midwestern Marketing, we keep our agents up to speed with the latest tools, trends, and product updates so they’re always a step ahead.
Stay Motivated and Avoid Burnout
Insurance positions can be deeply rewarding—but also demanding. Pressure to perform, rejection, and long hours can wear anyone down. One of the most powerful insurance career tips is learning how to keep your mindset strong.
Celebrate small wins. Share success stories with other agents. Take breaks when needed. Surround yourself with a support team that encourages you.
And most importantly—remember your “why.” Maybe it’s helping families protect what matters or building the financial freedom you’ve always wanted. Keeping that purpose front and center will help you power through the tough days in insurance sales.
A long-lasting insurance career doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built step by step, day by day. It takes intention, discipline, and a willingness to grow through every season. Start with a strong foundation, choose the right path, and keep learning. Manage your time well, connect with people, and protect your energy so you can keep showing up at your best.
Don’t try to do it all alone. Surround yourself with people and partners who understand the challenges and can offer real solutions.
Midwestern Marketing is here to support agents at every stage of the journey. Whether you’re launching your career or scaling your insurance business, we provide the training, tools, and guidance to help you succeed long term.
Ready to grow your business with a trusted partner? Contact Midwestern Marketing today. Let’s build long-term success—together.
Midwestern Marketing is a true FMO where a handshake still means something. We value our agents and take service and contracting to a new level. The teamwork and principles by which we operate are reflected in the thousands of agents we serve nationwide. Feel free to call 877-278-3775 or email us at info@midwesternmarketing.com. We are certain we can help you grow your business!