Agents: Your busiest time of year has come to an end. Now, you can take a big sigh of relief and pat yourself on the back. While you take some time to refresh and recharge, you should also look ahead to OEP, which is right around the corner. Before this year closes out and the new year begins, there are some important year-end activities to take care of.
Wrapping Up 2023
Check In with Your Clients
Verify that all enrollments were processed correctly and that your clients received their new ID cards. Find out if clients have any questions about their benefits. Be sure to thank them for their business and any referrals they sent your way. Follow with written thank-you notes. Let your clients know that you are available year-round to help them with any questions or concerns.
Review What Worked and What Didn’t
Review your AEP results and reflect on some key questions. For example: Did you meet your goals for client retention and new prospects? Where did you find success? What was your best source of leads and referrals? Which marketing and advertising channels brought the best results? Where did you see the fewest results? Were you aligned with the right carriers? Answering these questions will show you where to allocate your time and resources over the coming year.
Organize Your Book of Business
This is a great time to organize and declutter your desk. Make sure all your client information is up to date and documented for 2023 in your CRM. Since client retention should always be top of mind, use your CRM to create reminders for regular outreach in 2024, including special dates like client birthdays. Use automated workflows to track important information, such as policy renewals.
Prepare for 2024
Set Goals for 2024
Setting goals for the coming year is essential to your success. SMARTER goals will help you stay focused and motivated. The framework also allows for flexibility and adaptation in the face of changing circumstances.
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time-bound
Evaluate
Re-adjust
Prepare for First Quarter Outreach
The first quarter is an important time to check in with clients to see how their plans are working for them. If they express dissatisfaction with their plans or have had an unexpected change in their circumstances, you can help them address these challenges during OEP starting in January.
Cross-Selling Opportunities
Review your client list to identify anyone who might have additional needs and coverage gaps. Consider if you should add other products to expand your product portfolio. This not only helps solidify your relationship with your clients, it also creates additional revenue opportunities for you.
Continue Marketing and Networking
Keep your social media accounts up to date and with relevant content. Make it easy for people to interact with you. Continue networking and building relationships in your community. Look for opportunities to attend community events where you can create brand awareness.
As an independent agent running your own business, you have a lot of responsibilities to manage – but you don’t have to do it alone. The dedicated team at Western Asset Protection is here to support you and help you grow your business in 2024. Contact us today.