Finding customers is a challenge for any small business. For retail businesses, location and having products people want and need to buy are key. But for those selling services, finding customers can be more of a challenge.

Insurance is a competitive field, with lots of agents selling similar services in the same markets. How you attract customers, and the service you provide them, is what will set you apart. Make it easy for people to find you with targeted online advertising. And, perhaps even more important, get out and meet people. Networking and referrals are an important source of customers.

Online insurance lead-generating websites provide a great tool for local insurance brokers, too. They track potential leads and manage their overall pool of leads. It's easy for agents to get frustrated generating leads from scratch. You're paying a premium per-lead, but there is no easier way to cultivate contact information on people seeking insurance quotes. So many people are searching for quotes online, it takes sites like this to help agents organize that feedback.

How insurance lead-generation sites work

In sales, time management is everything, especially for small businesses with limited staff. The client services staff at lead-generator websites can also help agents glean as many leads as possible from the system.

On its website, Quote Wizard bills itself as a reliable source for "high-intent auto, home, life and renter insurance leads." The company validates information on prospects and distributes only qualified leads to agents. You don't want to waste your time chasing imaginary potential customers. That final, refined information on policy-seeking people gets filtered to agents based on the criteria they set up, including territory, specialties, and other factors. A robust base of customers is the only way for insurance agents and their agencies to grow.

Agents want a steady stream of potential leads to nurture into customers. NetQuote and Precise Leads are among other sites designed to help insurance salespeople organize potential leads in a sortable, searchable website. This process helps agents see their pool of leads and dedicate their time in more precise manner.

Helping agents know their customers

Insurance Journal notes knowing your customer is the No. 1 issue for insurance sales people. According to the publication, it's important for agents to "recognize what makes every encounter with each client unique."

Who is looking for high-dollar policies? Who lives in a metro area with tougher rates? All of these elements can help agents structure their sales approach. It's a worthwhile investment to pay the membership fees and get access to the data you need to do your job more effectively. Why leave a commission to chance?

Paying for leads is essential for the longevity of a business's success. Companies capture leads through traditional advertising, telemarketing and online lead capture.

Of course, it's important to vet the lead-generator ahead of time. Check reviews and make sure they're reputable. But the ones mentioned above have a strong track record of generating insurance policy leads that lead to sales.

Author Bio
Murray Lunn is a freelance writer specializing in content marketing for online businesses; his work includes business blogging, product development, and brand development.