5 Tips for Agents Serving the Agricultural Community

Due to the complexity and variety of businesses that comprise the agriculture industry in the United States, the knowledge and experience needed by insurance agents serving agribusiness and farm risks extends well beyond crop insurance. Following are five things agents should keep in mind when it comes to working with agribusiness clients.

1. It’s no longer just Grandpa’s farm. Agribusiness encompasses the entire food system. Delving into the many facets of the agriculture industry reveals a plethora of business opportunities ranging from small and large farms, to distributors, manufacturers, processors, wholesalers, etc.
2. Become a specialist. Spend time researching the agriculture industry to develop your expertise in areas such as commodity pricing, food safety, technology advancements, reform, etc. This knowledge allows you to build credibility. Also, work with a carrier who has considerable expertise in the agricultural industry. They can share their knowledge, allowing you to build trust.
3. Relationships matter. Building relationships with customers in the agriculture industry takes time; those relationships must be earned and are built on trust and mutual respect. Again, working with a carrier who has deep-seeded relationships already established can go a long way.
4. Select the right partner. Be sure to connect with an insurance carrier who knows big and small farms; one with considerable expertise around claims and risk control.
5. The agriculture industry provides a progressive path. As population trends continue to rise, the U.S. agriculture industry will be increasingly called to help feed the world. This trend should be very captivating to you as a producer.