15 Proven Tips on Networking With Your Fellow Agents and Upline

Now, you might feel networking is a total nightmare. Maybe you've had a negative experience at networking events in the past. Or, perhaps you're an introvert.

Believe it or not, you can be an introverted insurance agent. How you perceive networking impacts how you approach them. There are a few ways to prep for a networking event, whether you're a social butterfly or not.

1. Determine an event's purpose, organizers, and attendees in advance.
2. Figure out who you want to meet and greet.
3. Find common talking points to break the ice.

These tips for networking events benefit a person who takes action, is curious, and listens well. They'll work for you, too (if you're proactive).

To make the most of a networking event, focus on the why. What is your reason for being there? Was it by choice or necessity?

If you researched prospective contacts ahead of time, maybe you're looking for new partners. You might also explore networking because you want:

When you do meet fellow attendees, don't drone on and on about yourself. Meeting other agents isn't just about work. And when you all work in the same field, the last thing you want is to come across as boring.

Make sure to use the classic elevator pitch to introduce yourself. Whether you're talking about yourself or your work, keep it short and sweet. When you provide interesting tidbits, you draw the attention of truly interested persons.

The last thing you want is the attention of people who only listen out of politeness. That's a waste of time and effort when networking.

Remember, networking events aren't the only way of connecting with other professionals. You can use networking tips outside of scheduled events if you're proactive.

Reach out to your fellow contacts to set up a social event. Make it casual or upscale, depending on your purpose. Don't be afraid to take advantage of organic opportunities, either.

After a long day at the office, going out for dinner or drinks can give you natural opportunities to build relationships with other agents. Using these chances can develop your rapport for more structured (and more intimidating) scheduled events.

Don't be afraid to start conversations. If you're a go-getter or social butterfly, break that ice. Go your own way by opening others up.

Get the conversation started with some basic icebreakers. Make sure to vary your conversation starters to avoid sounding scripted or unnatural. Remember that these conversations serve to bring you closer to clients and agents, not just closing a sale.

If you're not a social butterfly, icebreakers can save your day. Although it might feel unnatural, finding a few repeat topics to reference can save you any social awkwardness.

These tips on networking aren't just for solo interactions. You can bring along a social wingman to bounce ideas off of. It also means you're likely to have a better time.

Bringing a proverbial partner in crime along (i.e., spouse, fellow agent) can keep you relaxed. You'll appear more personable to whoever you meet. You also have a backup to keep the conversation going if you suddenly stall out.

If you're worried that you don't know enough about insurance sales, tips for networking events can teach you how to learn. These tips show you that sales aren't about profit but people. When you think about insurance, don't think about sales.

Instead, think about these tips on networking. Consider how to connect with agent goals and consumer needs. Prioritize the person you're selling to. When you engage clients and peers, you build relationships.

When you listen to your peers at networking events, do so actively. Active listening mostly means staying off of your phone and maintaining eye contact. Follow that up with personal questions showing you listened.

Actively listen for more than sales opportunities. Don't just focus on landing sales with bigger clients. Instead, listen to learn.

When you read these tips on networking, remember that it's not about schmoozing for your own gain. Remember, the people you meet are more than learning opportunities or big contacts.

Instead, focus on how your presence makes the event better for those around you. Don't be afraid to grab the quiet guy in the corner over to meet higher-ranking agents.

Showing this type of camaraderie stands out. And, you might make a new friend or partner this way.

If you want flies, put out honey. This old cliche means you should show your kinder self. Don't come across as desperate or cutthroat.

Patience can give you a golden opportunity to prep yourself for tougher interactions. It also comes across as generous to others.

Although you have the right to be honest about your successes, be humble. If you bring a partner to networking events, make sure they get their time to shine, too. Don't hog the limelight.

Instead, find ways to share stories about mutual successes. Celebrate your fellow agents wins. And, if possible, show gratitude for the inspiration or lesson you learned from their win.

It would help if you were polite when networking, sure. But, you don't have to listen to a 45-minute spiel on someone's recent back pain if you have other people to connect with. Don't be afraid to cut your time short if you other agents monopolize your time.

As much as you don't want to overwhelm people with lengthy intros, you can't afford to be glued to one person's conversation.

Don't be afraid to show yourself at networking events. These networking tips and tricks can benefit you in real life, too.

You don't have to sell your work and how great you are at sales. Share your passions and perhaps what inspires you to sell insurance.

Who knows? Your drive might inspire a new partnership or mentor connection with an influential contact.

After networking events, you should reach out on social media. Depending on the context of the connection, this could be on any platform.

For professional contacts, explore LinkedIn. For personal and professional contacts, use Facebook. Sharing personal information can build rapport (as long as it's appropriate).