Tom and Harry Talk Personal Umbrella Policies While Running

(Tom and Harry are jogging along a dirt trail at sunrise, their breath visible in the cool morning air. The trees around them sway gently in the breeze, and the rhythmic sound of their sneakers hitting the ground fills the silence between words.)

Harry: [Breathing steady] You ever notice how running and life are a lot alike?

Tom: [Grins] If you mean that both get harder the older you get, then yeah.

Harry: Ha! That too. But I was thinking about how one misstep can change everything. You’re running fine, feeling good, and then—bam!—you trip over a root and eat dirt.

Tom: Sounds like you’re talking about more than just running.

Harry: Yeah. My neighbor is in a real mess. His son borrowed his car, got in a wreck, and now they’re getting sued for way more than their insurance covers.

Tom: [Shakes his head] That’s rough. And let me guess—they don’t have a personal umbrella policy?

Harry: Nope. Didn’t even know what it was until now.

Tom: That’s the thing. Most people don’t. They think their home and auto insurance is enough, but these days? Lawsuits are out of control. One big accident, and you could lose everything.

Harry: Yeah, I mean, his car insurance covered some of the damages, but the other guy’s lawyer is coming after their personal assets now. I never thought about that happening.

Tom: Exactly. Regular liability limits aren’t keeping up with the way people sue these days. A personal umbrella policy gives you extra protection—think of it like an extra layer over your regular policies.

Harry: So, let’s say I cause a wreck, and the medical bills are more than my auto insurance covers. This umbrella policy would kick in?

Tom: Yep. And not just car accidents. It covers all sorts of things—someone getting hurt on your property, your kid doing something dumb that lands you in a lawsuit, even stuff like defamation if you say something online that ticks off the wrong person.

Harry: Wait, so if my teenage nephew posts something stupid on social media, and someone sues, that could come back on me?

Tom: If you’re legally responsible, yeah. People don’t realize how easy it is to get dragged into a lawsuit these days. That’s why umbrella coverage is so important.

Harry: Alright, so what’s the damage? How much does this cost?

Tom: For a million bucks in coverage? A couple hundred bucks a year. The more coverage you want, the more it costs, but it’s still one of the best deals in insurance.

Harry: [Whistles] So, for less than I spend on coffee in a year, I can protect myself from losing my house if something goes sideways?

Tom: Exactly. It’s like running with the right shoes. You don’t think about it until you twist your ankle, but by then, it’s too late.

Harry: [Laughs] Alright, alright. You sold me. How do I get one?

Tom: Simple—call your insurance agent and ask. They’ll look at what you already have and add it on. Takes maybe 15 minutes.

Harry: [Nods] Good deal. I’d rather be covered than caught off guard.

Tom: Smart man. Now, let’s pick up the pace—I want to get breakfast after this, and I’m starving.

(They push forward, picking up speed, with Harry already mentally adding “call insurance agent” to his to-do list.)

 

How Insurance Agents Can Better Serve Their Clients: Customer Service, Education, and Quality Solutions

In today’s competitive insurance landscape, agents who prioritize customer service, education, and quality solutions can build long-lasting client relationships and stand out from the competition. Clients are not just looking for a policy; they want an agent who understands their needs, educates them on their options, and provides solutions that truly protect them. Here’s how insurance agents can excel in these three key areas.

  1. Elevate Customer Service

Customer service is the foundation of any successful insurance agency. Clients want to feel valued and heard, and how an agent interacts with them can make all the difference.

  • Be Accessible: Make it easy for clients to reach you via phone, email, or text. Quick response times show that you prioritize their concerns.
  • Listen Actively: Instead of pushing policies, take the time to listen to their unique needs and concerns.
  • Follow Up Consistently: Check in with clients after policy purchases, renewals, and even claim processes to ensure they are satisfied.
  • Personalize the Experience: Remember details about their families, businesses, or life events to build a deeper connection.
  1. Focus on Client Education

Many clients struggle to understand the complexities of insurance, which can lead to misunderstandings or inadequate coverage. A well-informed client is more likely to appreciate the value of their policies and trust their agent’s guidance.

  • Simplify Insurance Jargon: Break down policies in simple terms so clients understand what they’re buying.
  • Offer Informational Content: Create blog posts, videos, or newsletters covering common insurance questions and industry updates.
  • Host Educational Sessions: Webinars or in-person workshops on topics like home insurance, business liability, or life insurance can position you as an expert and trusted advisor.
  • Encourage Questions: Clients should feel comfortable asking anything, knowing they’ll get clear and honest answers.
  1. Provide Quality Solutions

Selling insurance isn’t just about closing a deal—it’s about offering policies that genuinely fit a client’s needs and provide adequate protection.

  • Conduct Thorough Risk Assessments: Every client has unique risks. Take time to analyze their situation and recommend coverage that makes sense for them.
  • Offer Customized Policy Options: Avoid one-size-fits-all approaches. Work with various carriers to provide the best coverage at competitive rates.
  • Review Policies Regularly: Clients’ lives and businesses evolve, so periodic policy reviews help ensure they remain properly insured.
  • Advocate for Clients During Claims: Assist clients throughout the claims process to ensure they receive fair and prompt resolutions.

By prioritizing customer service, client education, and high-quality insurance solutions, agents can build trust, strengthen relationships, and improve retention. In an industry driven by reliability and protection, being a client-centered agent will set you apart and position you for long-term success. Clients don’t just need insurance; they need a dedicated advocate who will guide and support them every step of the way.

 

Tom and Harry’s Backyard Chat: Insurance—Product or Service?

Tom and Harry are on Tom’s back deck, hammering away at a new pergola Tom has been building. A pile of wood is stacked neatly nearby, and the scent of freshly cut lumber mixes with the aroma of burgers grilling on the barbecue. They take a break, wiping their brows and sipping cold beers.

“You know,” Harry said, leaning against the railing, “I was thinking about insurance again. You and your ‘home inventory’ argument got me thinking—you really see insurance differently than I do.”

Tom chuckled, flipping a burger on the grill. “I take that as a compliment. So what’s on your mind this time?”

Harry shrugged, taking another sip of his beer. “I still think of insurance as a product—something you buy, like this wood for the pergola. You pick what you need, pay for it, and you’re done. But you seem to think it’s more than that.”

Tom turned, raising an eyebrow. “Because it is more than that, Harry. Insurance isn’t just something you buy and forget. It’s a service. You’re not just paying for a policy—you’re paying for someone to help you make sense of it all and to be there when it matters.”

“Come on,” Harry said, waving him off. “You buy a policy, you’ve got coverage. What’s so complicated about that?”

Tom leaned on the grill, gesturing with his tongs. “Alright, let’s compare it to this pergola. Sure, you bought the wood, but who’s helping you figure out how to put it together? Would you rather guess and hope for the best, or have someone who’s done it before guide you through?”

Harry laughed. “I see where you’re going, but building a pergola and buying insurance aren’t the same thing.”

“Aren’t they?” Tom challenged. “You bought the wood, but if you don’t assemble it right, it won’t hold up when the wind comes. Same with insurance. You can buy a policy online, sure, but without someone to guide you, you might find out it doesn’t hold up when life throws you a storm.”

Harry frowned, setting his beer down. “Okay, fine. But isn’t it easier to just buy what a big company is offering? They’ve got the resources, and you know what you’re getting.”

Tom shook his head, smiling. “You know what you’re getting on paper, but who’s explaining the details? Who’s asking the right questions? An experienced agent takes that product and turns it into a service, Harry. They make sure you’re not just covered but properly covered.”

Harry crossed his arms. “So what, you’re saying I can’t trust a big company?”

“It’s not about trust—it’s about focus,” Tom said. “A big company is looking out for its bottom line. An agent? They’re looking out for you. When you work with someone who knows your situation, they’re not just selling you something—they’re solving a problem.”

Harry picked up a hammer, twirling it thoughtfully. “But doesn’t that mean paying more? I mean, if I can do it myself, why involve someone else?”

Tom flipped the burgers and turned back to Harry. “Because doing it yourself doesn’t always mean doing it right. An agent saves you time, stress, and often money in the long run. They’re like the foreman on a construction site—keeping everything on track so it doesn’t fall apart.”

“Alright, I get it,” Harry admitted, setting the hammer down. “But you’ve got to admit, it’s a lot easier to just go online and click a few buttons.”

Tom smirked, handing Harry a plate with a burger. “Easier? Maybe. But when you’re in a jam, do you want a call center on the other side of the country, or someone local who knows you? Insurance is about trust and service, Harry. It’s about having someone in your corner.”

Harry took a bite of his burger, chewing thoughtfully. “You’ve got a point. It’d be nice to have someone who actually knows what they’re doing when things go sideways.”

Tom raised his beer in a toast. “Exactly. Insurance isn’t just a product—it’s peace of mind. And that’s something you can’t get from a website.”

Harry laughed, clinking his beer against Tom’s. “You’re relentless, you know that?”

“Just looking out for you, Harry,” Tom said with a grin. “Now, let’s finish this pergola before that storm rolls in—speaking of being prepared.”

They both laughed, picking up their tools and getting back to work under the warm glow of the setting sun.

 

Tom and Harry at the Coffee Shop: High vs. Low Deductibles

Tom: Harry, I don’t understand why you’re still sticking with that low deductible. It’s like paying extra for nothing. I’d rather keep more of my money, thank you very much.

Harry: Oh, sure, Tom, just keep tempting fate. You’re betting on never having a claim. I prefer to sleep well at night, knowing if something happens, I’m not dropping half my savings to fix it.

Tom: Yeah, but that’s the thing—you’re paying that insurance company monthly just for that peace of mind. I mean, think about it. With a higher deductible, my premium is way lower. I’m saving money every month. Plus, it’s not like I’m planning to have an accident.

Harry: Right, because we all plan our accidents. I get it, you’re Mr. Optimistic. But what if your car ends up wrapped around a pole one day? What happens then, huh?

Tom: That’s when my secret weapon comes in—an emergency fund, Harry. I’ve got some cash set aside, just in case. So, if something does happen, I’m ready for it. Until then, I’m not handing over my hard-earned money for no reason.

Harry: Emergency fund, huh? It must be nice—some of us would rather avoid wiping out our savings. Besides, it’s not just about cars. What if your house floods or something?

Tom: Oh, come on, my house is up on a hill! The only flooding we’re dealing with is when my kids leave the garden hose running. But I get your point. Look, it’s not like I’m against coverage—I think having a higher deductible is a smarter way to save. Over time, the difference in premiums adds up. And it’s not like I’m flying blind—I talked to my insurance agent about it. They helped me figure out what made sense based on my finances.

Harry: Yeah, yeah, I talked to my agent too. They actually told me a higher deductible can make sense—if you’ve got the resources to cover it when things go sideways. But personally, I’m not taking any chances. I’d rather keep my deductible low and my stress even lower.

Tom: And that’s fair, Harry. At the end of the day, it’s all about what you’re comfortable with and what you can afford. That’s why talking to an agent is so important—they’re the ones who can help you weigh it all out.

Harry: I’ll give you that one, Tom. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book—you just have to know which chapter makes the most sense.

Tom: Exactly! So whether you’re the risk-averse type like Harry or a risk-tolerant maverick like me, the right place to start is with your agent. They’ll help you decide whether high or low deductibles are right. It’s all about finding that balance.

Harry: And, of course, figuring out which one of us gets to buy the other a coffee with all that “savings.”

Tom: Ha! Now that’s a deductible I’m willing to pay.

 

Top 3 Trending Insurance Issues Facing People in 2024

As we move through 2024, insurance trends are shifting in response to evolving risks, market conditions, and consumer needs. Whether you’re managing personal finances or securing your family’s future, these top three trending issues can have a big impact on how people interact with insurance this year.

  1. Rising Costs of Health Insurance

Health insurance premiums continue to rise, with inflation and increasing healthcare costs being major contributors. For many individuals and families, finding affordable coverage has become increasingly challenging. Factors such as advances in medical technology, higher prescription drug costs, and more frequent claims are driving up premiums.

What Can You Do?

  • Consider high-deductible health plans combined with health savings accounts (HSAs) to manage costs.
  • Stay informed during open enrollment periods to ensure you are getting the best deal available.
  • Take advantage of wellness programs or incentives offered by insurers to reduce premiums.
  1. Underinsurance and the Increase in Liability Judgments

Personal and business liability judgments are climbing to record highs, leaving many people dangerously underinsured. As litigation becomes more frequent and settlement amounts increase, many are finding that standard insurance policies may not provide adequate coverage, especially when facing large claims or lawsuits.

What Can You Do?

  • Review your current liability coverage to ensure it meets your needs.
  • Consider adding personal umbrella insurance or increasing the liability limits on existing policies to protect yourself from costly legal judgments.
  • Small business owners should reevaluate their business liability policies, ensuring that they have sufficient protection against lawsuits.
  1. Cybersecurity Threats and the Need for Cyber Insurance

With more personal data stored online and an increase in cybercrime, individuals and businesses alike are recognizing the importance of cyber insurance. Whether it’s protecting personal identities or safeguarding sensitive business information, cyber insurance has become a growing need as cyberattacks are expected to rise throughout 2024.

What Can You Do?

  • Look into personal identity theft protection or cyber liability policies to cover potential losses from hacking, fraud, or data breaches.
  • For business owners, it is crucial to ensure that your cyber insurance policy covers ransomware attacks, data restoration costs, and legal liabilities.
  • Implement stronger cybersecurity practices, such as multi-factor authentication and regular software updates, to mitigate risks.

Staying ahead of these trending insurance issues can help you make better decisions and ensure you have the right protection in place. Whether it’s navigating rising health costs, securing adequate liability coverage, or safeguarding against cyber threats, 2024 is the year to review your insurance policies and ensure you’re prepared for the future.

Water Wisdom: Harry’s Sail on Independent Agents

On a bright and breezy day, Tom and Harry were enjoying a serene sail on Harry’s boat, the gentle waves matching the rhythm of their leisurely conversation. As the sail flapped lightly in the wind, the topic naturally drifted to a familiar theme—insurance—but with a nautical twist this time.

Harry: (gesturing with a rope in hand) You know, Tom, choosing an independent insurance agent is like picking the right boat for sailing. You want something that gives you freedom, not something that ties you to a single dock.

Tom: (raising an eyebrow as he steadies the wheel) Sounds like you’ve thought this through, but aren’t all agents the same at the end of the day? They all sell insurance, right?

Harry: That’s where you’re mistaken, my friend. Captive agents are tied to one insurance company. They can only offer you the policies their company sells, nothing more.

Tom: I see your point, but doesn’t that make things simpler? Less confusion, less fuss?

Harry: (laughing as he adjusts the sail) Maybe simpler, but certainly not better. Independent agents, like this boat, can navigate through a variety of options. They can shop around, compare policies, and find you the best deals and coverage out there.

Tom: Hmm, that does sound like a better route. But is it really that different?

Harry: Absolutely! Think of it this way: If a storm were coming, would you rather have just one route to safety, or multiple escape routes to pick from?

Tom: Multiple, obviously. You need the flexibility when things get rough.

Harry: Exactly! That’s what an independent agent offers—flexibility. They aren’t bound by one company’s policies. If your life changes, or if better options arise, they can quickly adjust your coverage.

Tom: (nodding thoughtfully) I guess that makes a lot of sense, especially considering how much everything else changes.

Harry: Right, and it’s not just about variety. It’s about having an expert who understands the broader market and can truly act in your best interest, much like how I steer this boat with an understanding of the winds and the tides.

Tom: So, an independent agent is like having a seasoned captain who knows all the potential routes.

Harry: Precisely! And just like a good captain who makes the journey safe and enjoyable, a good agent makes your insurance experience less about stress and more about peace of mind.

Tom: (smiling as the shore approaches) Well, when you put it that way, Harry, I think you’ve won this debate. Maybe it’s time I consider switching to an independent agent.

Harry: Glad to hear it, Tom! And remember, it’s all about sailing through life with as little worry as possible.

As they tied up the boat, Tom felt not only the relaxation that a day on the water brings but also enlightened by Harry’s insights. It was clear that, much like navigating a boat, managing insurance needs the right kind of guidance, and Harry had convincingly charted the course toward choosing an independent agent.

 

What Do You Want From Your Insurance Relationship?

The best relationships are built to last.  Long-term financial relationships are much more than a quick transaction or low price.  Recent surveys by JD Power & Associates found that consumers actually valued long-term relationships.  There are many ways agents can build value and create lasting positive relationships with their clients.

Why Lasting Relationships Matter

If you listen to most insurance advertisements, they tell you to shop your insurance every year and over time, you may save money.  The problem with this concept is insurance is not a specific “one size fits all” product that you might buy and expect to be what you need.  For example, when you buy a faucet, you would not buy all the individual components of a faucet, put it together yourself, and hope it worked.  Rather, you purchase a completed faucet, install it, and it works for years as promised when you bought it.

With insurance, you go into a contractual agreement with the insurer that your claim will be paid based on the terms of the policy.  Insurance is unique and it takes knowledge and skill to put together the right combination of coverage for each individual.  Why would anyone build an insurance product themselves when a professional, experienced, and licensed agent can do it better?

Your Agent Will Care About What You Care About

  1. An agent will get to know your family and your individual needs. Over time, agents develop close relationships with their clients and care about their well-being. Wouldn’t it be good to be on a first-name basis with an agent who knows you and your family, and lives and works in the same local community that you do?
  2. Your agent will know what risks you have. As in any relationship your agent will better understand your risks and be able to educate you on how to manage these risks.
  3. You care about convenience, choices, and control. Your agent will provide you with options of Insurance policies, the ability to control how you access your account, and the convenience of a simple insurance purchasing process.

How Agents Help Build Lasting Relationships

  1. By educating their clients rather than selling a product.
  2. Agents are always keeping up on the latest issues and trends to share with their clients.
  3. You can call their office and get a professional team member who knows who you are.
  4. Agents will meet you where you are.
  5. Life-changing events may require a meeting with your agent; we are here for you.
  6. Instead of calling a voicemail or making an appointment, interested consumers can speak directly with an agent immediately and ask any question they choose.
  7. Agents know what your insurance policies cover and do not cover, which helps you when you have a claim.
  8. An agent will take the lead and work through a claim to make sure you are satisfied.

In conclusion, our marketing plan is not based on internet ads, or catchy slogans, our marketing plan is to have completely happy and satisfied customers and build long-lasting relationships.

Pickleball Pundits: Tom and Harry’s Court-side Debate on Local vs. National Insurance Agents

On a bright Saturday morning, Tom and Harry found themselves on the pickleball court at the local park, paddles in hand, ready to serve up not just a ball but also a fresh debate. The topic bouncing between them today was the merits of using a local insurance agent instead of a national broker.

As Tom lobbed the ball over the net, he started, “I’ve been thinking, Harry. Going local for insurance makes a lot of sense. It’s like eating at a neighborhood restaurant instead of a big chain. More personal, you know?”

Harry, quick on his feet, returned the serve. “Personal touch, huh? I can see that. But do these local guys really match up when it comes to the big leagues in terms of resources and reach?”

Tom took a swift step to volley the ball, keeping up the pace. “Sure, national brokers have size, but local agents have the home court advantage. They know the area, understand local laws, and they even recognize how the local weather patterns can affect policies.”

Harry nodded, contemplating as he prepared for the next serve. “That’s a fair point. There’s something to be said for someone who knows the territory. Plus, I suppose with local agents, your money stays in the community.”

“Exactly!” Tom exclaimed, scoring a point. “And besides community support, local agents offer something a big corporation can’t—flexibility and a personal relationship. If you have a problem or a question, you’re not just talking to a call center on the other side of the country.” These are small business owners who are more invested in your business and personal success.

Harry returned the ball with a thoughtful flick of his wrist. “I guess dealing with someone face-to-face does cut through a lot of red tape. It’s more human, less corporate, right?” Tom points out, “Even if the national broker has a local office, they are still obligated to their national firm rather than you. “

“Right,” Tom agreed, pausing as they took a brief water break. “Think about it like this—when you’re in a pinch, would you rather rely on a local expert who’s invested in your welfare, or a corporation that sees you as just another number?”

Chewing on that thought, Harry conceded as they resumed their game. “I’m starting to see the appeal. Local knowledge and service do go a long way, especially when it’s about something as crucial as insurance.”

As the game continued, the discussion shifted from comparing agents to sharing stories about community events and local happenings. It was clear that for Tom and Harry, the appeal of local service, much like their game of pickleball, was all about engagement, familiarity, and a shared sense of belonging.

By the end of their game, Harry was not just more open to considering a local insurance agent but also appreciative of Tom’s perspective. “Alright, Tom, you might have swayed me here—both on the court and off it.”

With their game set and match concluded, they shared a laugh and planned to catch up again soon—perhaps next time with less debate and more direct action toward checking out those local agents Tom so passionately advocated for.

4

 

Tom and Harry’s Insurance Inning

On a sunny afternoon at the local baseball stadium, Tom and Harry were perched on the bleachers, hot dogs in hand, ready to enjoy the game. Between cheers and jeers, they ventured into a familiar debate territory—insurance policies.

Tom: (pointing to the pitcher with his hot dog) You know, Harry, managing your insurance is a bit like this game. You can’t just set your lineup once and forget about it. The season changes, players get injured, and you have to make adjustments.

Harry: (grinning as he takes a bite of his hot dog) Come on, Tom. Once you’ve got a good team, why keep messing with the lineup? Seems like a lot of unnecessary fuss to me.

Tom: It might seem that way, but think about it. What if your favorite player gets traded? Or what if a rookie turns out to be a superstar? If you don’t reassess your team, you might miss out on capitalizing on new talent.

Harry: (chuckles) I see your point, but isn’t it a bit different with insurance? I mean, how much can really change in a year?

Tom: You’d be surprised! Maybe you’ve upgraded your house with a new security system, or perhaps the value of your car has depreciated significantly. Those changes can affect your premiums, your coverage—everything.

Harry: Okay, so say I buy that. Doesn’t reviewing your policy just give your agent a chance to upsell you on stuff you don’t need?

Tom: Not if you have the right agent. They should be helping you adjust your policies to fit your needs, maybe even saving you money. Just like a good manager makes strategic swaps to improve the team.

Harry: (nodding slowly) Alright, that makes sense. But what about all the time that takes? Sitting down, going through all the details…

Tom: Think of it as a seventh-inning stretch for your finances. Sure, it takes a little time out of your day, but the peace of mind it brings? That’s worth a double-header.

Harry: (laughs) Well, when you put it like that, maybe I can handle stretching my legs a bit.

Tom: Exactly, Harry. And who knows? You might find out you’re overpaying, or that you’re not as covered as you thought. Wouldn’t you want to know that sooner rather than later?

Harry: True enough. Next thing you’re going to tell me is that it’s like checking the score, right?

Tom: You got it! It’s all about knowing where you stand. (pauses as the crowd cheers a home run) See? Just like that homer, life can throw surprises. Better to be ready for them.

Harry: Alright, I’ll think about giving my agent a call. But if this turns into extra innings, I’m blaming you!

Tom: Deal! But only if you buy the next round of hot dogs.

As the game played on, it was clear their conversation had given Harry a new perspective on his insurance approach—proving that even a casual chat at a baseball game could lead to game-changing decisions.

 

Price or Value?

Shoppers are always looking for that next big sale or deal. When it comes to purchasing a 46” HDTV, it is easy to identify all the features you want, and then shop for the best price.  In fact, many retailers might even negotiate with you to get your business. When selecting your insurance, you cannot think the same way.  Why?

  • Insurance can never go on sale, it is highly regulated.
  • Consumers rarely have complete information about various insurance products.
  • Consumers may believe that “popular” or advertised products are high in quality.

Let me clarify that high-priced insurance does not always equate to a better value.  However, if you purchase the low-priced insurance policy are you satisfied that all the coverage terms are consistent with a higher-priced one?  A better way to look at this is to consider the value of what you are buying.  Here are some of the value-added advantages you will find in insurance if you do a little searching.

What makes up a high-value insurance program?

  • An insurance policy that will respond to your risks when a loss occurs.
  • The extra services offered by the insurer at no cost to you.
  • The knowledge and expertise of the agent. The agent is your key to a high value advantage. The agent is the one who helps you identify your risks and designs a policy specifically for you.  The agent will be there to help you manage a claim and to educate you.
  • Your agent increases your insurance value by helping you understand why the premiums are different.

Value is more than price.

There are also non-price variables that every insurance purchaser should consider.

  • The agent’s experience in your industry. Do you want an agent who primarily only insures homes to insure your restaurant?  These risks are different and should be treated as such.
  • Insurance companies have customer satisfaction ratings for claims, premium processing, and other services. Do you want to use an insurer with a below-average claims handling rating?

In conclusion, only an experienced agent can help you understand and define the true value of your insurance purchase. Call Reichley Insurance Agency anytime to see how we can help you!