What will my broker say?
Brokers respond in a variety of ways to the involvement of a consultant. For some, it is relief, as someone else is now making the tough decisions. Some feel threatened, but shouldn’t, unless their work has been somewhat less than diligent.
Our role is not to undermine a solid relationship, or score points at the expense of another.
Some brokers look forward to dealing with an “informed client”. Either way, we don’t compete with brokers. We have distinct roles to play.
The selling of insurance is based on an inherent conflict of interest. Insurers wish to provide less coverage and service at greater premium. Our clients want the opposite.
Most carriers use brokers to sell their products and compensate them with commission that is tied to the premium and not their contribution. For most underwriters the business model is simple: No insurance sale, no commission.
Against that framework, we should not be surprised that nearly every risk management problem cries out for an independent solution. Brokers and agents walk a tightrope between the interests of their customers and their principals.
They are not just a part of the insurance delivery system, they are the system. Consultants are needed because most consumers do not have the time or inclination to learn all that is needed to properly assess the insurance vendors. Consultants exist because there is a need for someone who is on YOUR side.
When would I need a consultant?
- You have decided it is time for an independent, objective assessment of your existing insurance program
- You are not satisfied with your agent or broker
- Are your risk and insurance costs higher than your competitors’?
- You are considering a major change in your business, such as sale, acquisition or merger.
- Have you decided that risk management is a valuable strategic process, but are not sure where to start?
- You are not sure that your insurance protection is adequate.
- Your business has changed a lot, and you aren’t sure that your insurance has kept up.
- Do you need an orderly and timely approach to consider alternatives to your present risk and insurance program?
- Are you concerned that you may have insurance that you don’t need?
- You are concerned about the cost of your current insurance.
- You had a claim that was denied.
- You are having difficulty getting insurance, either because of the nature of your business, or other factors beyond your control.
- Your current agent or broker rarely reviews your needs, or makes recommendations, they simply send out documents and invoices, and ask if you have any questions.
- Do you simply buy insurance and call it risk management?
- Do you need to gain control of your risk and insurance costs?
- Has your organization undergone changes that may require a fresh, objective evaluation of risk and the protection you need?
- You are concerned that your agent or broker is too product oriented, not needs oriented and may not adequately understand your business.