Columns
For all of the bad press the insurance industry receives for appearing hidebound, boring and risk averse, the reality of its responsiveness and creativity is evident in the way carriers have responded over the years to pollution liability. ...
In this economic environment, some agencies are cutting professional development investments to save money, while others are committed to professional development programs. ...
When an insurance agent or broker promises to obtain a particular type of insurance for a customer, he must keep that promise. ...
February is the month of love and we all know strong relationships are built on a foundation of love. ...
Agents are facing the softest market since 1933 and many are scrambling to find growth anywhere they can. Some agents are truly scared, and when a person is scared, emotions often trump logic. Quick fixes, even if illogical, become irresistible....
When we speak about “change,” we often talk about the pace of change or the challenge of change....
Mavens speak eloquently behind the lectern on the importance of “building rapport” with prospects and customers. ...
It’s not surprising. The stereotype of a career in insurance is on par with that of a used car salesman—a slick-talking professional looking to make a buck any way he or she can. ...
Departments
My last column (“When client dissatisfaction moves to E&O Claims,” October 2009) addressed the perils of client complaints and “potential claims.” ...
Unemployed workers received a holiday gift of extended subsidies for healthcare benefits—but employers have to front the money and spread the news....
The man accused of conspiracy in the hacking attacks on payment systems supporting companies such as retailers TJX Cos., Hannaford Brothers Co. Inc. and 7-Eleven, pleaded guilty Dec. 29 at the U.S. District Court in Boston....
A federal appeals court has upheld the convictions of former state insurance regulator Joe Ruiz on corruption charges....
Narcotic drugs account for nearly one quarter of workers’ comp prescription costs, according to a new industry study by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI)....
Third-quarter tax revenue for state and local governments was down 6.7 percent through Sept. 30, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of decline, meaning more states could turn to insurer assessment fees to bolster their budgets....
Fueled largely by federal stimulus spending, many are predicting a modest upturn for the clean technology industry and maybe even some clean tech IPOs....
Cash-strapped states are having a historically hard time balancing their budgets. ...
A small independent agency bases its success on customer service and employee education....