Still think social media's just a fad?
Then you may be falling behind in your business.
Maha Roberts, a specialty group sales executive at WarnerPacific, encouraged a room of brokers and agents Tuesday attending WarnerPacific's annual ancillary/worksite symposium in Denver to embrace social media to succeed in the business.
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"It not only saves time, but saves money," Roberts said. Social media also can make brokers more connected and likable to their clients, she said.
Brokers in the audience admitted their reluctance to embracing it. They said when they heard the term "social media," they felt "intimidated" and "anxious."
But Roberts said social media efforts will make brokers more efficient in the way they do business — especially as health reform takes effect and makes their jobs all the more complicated — and busy.
Roberts recommended the following social media tools and sites:
MailChimp. Talk about a time saver: This site creates, sends and tracks emails — all for free. Users can send 12,000 emails a day for no cost — a perfect way to get through to a lot of clients at once. "It's a great site whether you are self-employed or work for a Fortune 500 company," Roberts said. Use this site to get new clients and retain clients.
Photo credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Yugma. Yugma offers free web conferencing solutions. Roberts suggested using this site to conduct a monthly web seminar with clients. The easy-to-use site can also be used to help clients enroll online. "If you don't have time driving to each of your clients, reach more at one time and do it at your desk," Roberts said.
Photo credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
LinkedIn. There's no better way to test the social media waters than to join the world's largest professional network. Here, you can connect with other insurance brokers, carriers, broker groups or clients. Another important reason to be on LinkedIn? To stay up-to-date on health insurance, health reform and regulatory news. Follow groups that are posting that news and information, and then send that information on their clients.
Photo: LinkedIn headquarters in Mountain View, Calif. Photo credit/Associated Press)
YouTube. YouTube is the world's second-largest search engine, so utilize it. Brokers and carriers can create their own company YouTube page, and post and create company videos on it. Then use that link and post it on LinkedIn, Facebook, and any type of advertising that you have, Roberts said. Also, put the link on your email or on your business card.
Photo credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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