While visiting with members in various parts of the country, a common question from agents is “What types of insurance services does the association provide to members?” I know you are incredibly busy and are constantly bombarded with information, so it’s easy to forget about the many benefits of being a member of the Big “I.” Your time is valuable, so let me take a few moments to explain some of these programs and how to utilize the tools that will help you in your insurance operations.

As a member of the association, you have access to Big “I” Markets, which offers insurance products for you to sell to customers. Big “I” Markets was created to offer member agents access to specialty niche markets they otherwise might not find through a direct carrier appointment. Some of these products include: outfitters and guides, hunting and fishing lodges, community bank insurance products, employment practices liability, fine dining restaurants, contractors liability, builder’s risk and special event liability. For questions or direct applications for Big “I” Markets products, go to www.independentagent.com.

So what are some of our agents saying about Big “I” Markets?

“We are discovering many homes that are for sale are not being lived in. I think these homes are a growing opportunity for agents,” says an Idaho agent who wrote two policies for more than $2,000 in premium by accessing the newly-announced vacant homes product on Big “I” Markets.

An east coast agent also recently signed up for the habitational webinar and learned more about the condominium association program. She was able to bind a large association with a six figure premium. “The people at MiddleOak Specialty are excellent and great to work with. I couldn’t ask for more support,” she said. And she has already sent in her next submission!

The more you know about the products and services offered through the Big “I”, the more you will benefit from your membership.

These are only a few simple examples of the valuable services you receive for being a Big “I” member. And I haven’t even mentioned other programs and services such as Virtual University online education courses, the E&O program, InsurBanc, retirement services, Best Practices, the Big “I” flood insurance program and Caliper testing. These products and services, added to the crucial advocacy services of producer contract review, lobbying for agent issues and more, are all invaluable member benefits that improve our agencies and business climate.

It is so important to recognize all the opportunities the association affords to independent agents and brokers. It’s essential to have an advocate at the national level that is ready and willing to assist with special needs and to fight legislative battles as they arise. These are things we could never do by ourselves.

There are many more divisions of the association that I have been unable to discuss in the last few months, but in the coming year I will ensure each Big “I” member understands how this association can help provide quality products and services to your agency and your clients. In the mean time, take advantage of some of these services provided to Big “I” members: Make sure you’re receiving your monthly edition of Independent Agent magazine and sign up for a subscription to IA’s weekly e-mail publication, Insurance News & Views; take advantage of exclusive CD offers available through InsurBanc; if you are not insured through the Big “I” E&O program, send your E&O expiration date to your state association and remind your personal lines staff that RLI umbrellas are available on Big “I” Markets.

It’s your association—take advantage of it!

—Brett Nilsson, Chairman