June 9, 2026:
Don’t Drive Your Business with the Check-Engine Light On!
Running year-after-year without exploring what’s under the hood isn’t only bad for a vehicle, it’s not good for a business either.
Annual reviews and maintenance are essential to grow a successful, long-lasting company. The best times to evaluate these key indicators are at the end-of-year (EOY) or during the First Quarter (Q1). The beginning of the year is when the previous year’s data is complete, clean and comparable, allowing for a clear view of the past and a better glimpse of the future. Many times, a few tweaks in an already well-oiled business are all that’s needed for continued success, but other times the situation may require a full overhaul or even a new business partner.
How do agencies in the Medicare Insurance industry know if it’s time for a slight tune-up or a new Field Marketing Organization (FMO) partner?
A few simple indicators can help determine if agency needs are being met. The following are not the only indicators, but a good overview.
Leads
Quality leads are often the fuel of a fast-paced agency and without compliant unique-to-market opportunities, many experience slow growth. Agencies partnered with committed FMOs who supply marketing training and strategies for agents see steady consumer engagement and accelerated growth. Leads are obtained in various ways through networking, referrals, mailers, online platforms, seminars, purchased from trusted sources and much more. Partnering with an FMO who can help with all those resources makes a huge difference.
Technology
Running a business with patched-together-systems slows growth and causes confusion. No matter the scale or size of a business, having industry-leading technology drives efficiency and effectiveness. Integrity’s premier platforms, IntegrityCONNECT and IntegrityCONNECT+, lead the industry with quoting & enrollment solutions, compliant phone recording, AI assistants and much more. Agencies can track downline activities to help them stay on track with their goals. Agents who use Integrity’s platform write 79% more apps!*
Services and Support
Just as a solid maintenance crew keeps a racecar on the track, a dedicated Service & Support team can keep a business rolling and avoid any bumps in the road. Not all FMOs have the same level of service; some may talk about the support they offer, but many fall short on these promises due to lack of size and experience. Finding an established, proven and responsive crew makes running a business smoother and alleviates stress.
Commissions
Does your current FMO truly provide highest-level commissions? There are multiple levels of FMOs out there depending on carrier and production. Typically, those with more production and a higher number of contracted agents can seek higher contracts. Getting “stuck” under a partner who cannot allow for growth limits commission and renewal potential. Seek highest level FMOs when possible to avoid any commission cutting.
Discounts and Perks
Advantages such as discounted E&O insurance, special pricing on office supplies and much more help keep more money in an agency’s pocket. FMOs who offer these discounts usually can based on size and production numbers, allowing them to negotiate rates others are unable to access. Make sure to look for these substantial benefits!
If your current FMO doesn’t meet all of these requirements, then it may be time for an annual review with another organization that meets all these criteria…and then some!
As a Field Marketing Organization (FMO) that works with thousands of independent agents, we understand you must generate leads and stand out from the competition in order to grow your business. That’s why we work diligently to provide the resources necessary for successful marketing. If this information is valuable and you want to know more about the services we provide our Medicare agent partners, please contact us at marketing@berwickinsurance.com or 888-745-2320.
*Source: https://integrity.com/technology/