At Farm Bureau Financial Services, our insurance agents never feel like they’re on their own. We know that a solid foundation of training and support helps agents protect their clients’ livelihoods and futures. That's why we provide ongoing education programs as agents grow their businesses, not only when they’re getting started.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to insurance, which is why it’s critical for new insurance agents to learn about our products and how they work together to protect clients. When you join Farm Bureau, our insurance agent training programs will prepare you to serve your clients and grow a thriving insurance business.
Insurance Agent Education Starts with the Developing Agent Program
At Farm Bureau, we offer a training program that gives potential new insurance agents the opportunity to try a test run. Because we want to make sure this opportunity is the right fit for you, you start with the Developing Agent Program. In this program, you get to dip your toes into working as an agent before you leave your current job.
During this time, you’ll learn the ins-and-outs of being an agent. The Developing Agent Program includes:
- Details about our insurance and financial services
- Real-time business experience
- Information on earning your life and property-casualty insurance licenses
- Valuable experience meeting with potential clients
A Strategic, Hands-On Approach
Training and support start on day one and continue throughout your time as a Farm Bureau agent. From insurance agent online training to classroom opportunities, you’ll always be able to learn something new that will help you grow your insurance business.
"Our training program differs in a few ways. We have a true-life cycle training program — it doesn’t end after an agent’s first few months,” says Corine Porter, Director of Sales and Operations Development at Farm Bureau. “Our training is made up of multiple components, with online learning, in-person and field support.”
From coaches to teachers to military veterans, we know that our insurance agents come from all different backgrounds. That’s why we offer training to bring each person up to speed on the key business management skills they need to thrive. You’ll learn how to:
- Create a marketing plan to build your brand presence.
- Begin prospecting for new clients.
- Identify solutions that meet client needs at every stage of life.
Online Learning
With our online learning options, you can study and learn at times and locations that are convenient for you.
In-Person Training
Our in-person training gives you personalized instruction, as well as contact with your instructor and peers, so you can build connections you can rely on going forward.
Classroom Training
As you grow as an insurance agent, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in local classes along with your peers and district managers. The district manager will be your go-to person for questions, while your peers have your back whenever you need them.
Field Training
Our field workshops allow you to master skill sets with sales training for insurance agents, product knowledge, marketing ideas, running a business and more. A field leadership professional will be there for you to provide any support you may need.
During field training, you will:
- Get familiar with the basics of the sales process, the insurance business and our insurance products.
- Develop the business and sales skills you need to help you earn clients’ business.
- Learn how to manage your time as a business owner.
Training Academies
Once you complete the Developing Agent Program, you’ll transition to becoming a contracted agent, which is when you’ll attend one of our leading industry training academies. You’ll start with Agent Academy 1, and then you can transition to Agent Academy 2 and Agent Academy 3 during your first two years as an insurance agent.
These academies give you the more detailed instruction you need after you’ve mastered the basics and gained some experience in the field.
Agents can then enter the Life Academy for their Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) Certification to continue to gain experience in the industry. One to two years later, agents can move on to the Advanced Life Academy to further develop their experience and knowledge.
Beyond the first four years, the training and ongoing education doesn’t end. You’ll have the opportunity to attend quarterly agent meetings and topic-specific trainings.
Additional Support from Farm Bureau
Whether it’s online learning, classroom instruction or field training, we offer you a variety of ways to make sure you get the support you need. Our agents consistently share that they appreciate the ongoing training and always having a district manager to turn to when they have questions.
And our agents never stop learning. There are always new technologies and products, changes in laws and shifts in the industry. Our ongoing training includes:
- Materials you can access online at any time
- One-on-one development opportunities with field trainers and marketing coaches
- Annual Sales Conferences where you hear from company leadership about advancements and connect with agents across our operating territory
With Farm Bureau Financial Services’ eight-state footprint, our insurance agents enjoy networking with peers and creating lasting friendships. Having a support system of friends, mentors and trainers helps make sure you have everything you need to start your business and start serving clients from day one.
Learn More About Becoming an Insurance Agent at Farm Bureau
At Farm Bureau, we’re a team, and we’re all working toward the same goal. We strive to make a difference in our communities by protecting our clients, friends and families.
If you’re thinking about becoming an insurance agent, you’ll want to join a team with the training structure to help you succeed. Connect with Farm Bureau to get started today!