How Online Convenience and On-The-Phone Support Can Help With Buying Business Insurance

Online business insurance is a new and growing market that allows our customers to get the best of both worlds: the convenience of a digital experience and the ability to chat on the phone with an agent.

Most customers are quick to indulge in the convenience of online insurance shopping, while some are more likely to pick up the phone and call their reliable agent. It's true that most customers like both — shopping online and calling an agent when they want an expert opinion.

This inspired a question that we're answering below: What's the difference between shopping for business insurance online vs. working with an agent?

My name is Monique, I am a licensed insurance agent with a commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends. I am well-equipped to provide reliable and informed advice to help clients navigate buying insurance, and I took a stab at answering the questions we raised above, based on my experience working at Simply Business.

The Benefits of Buying Business Insurance Online

Purchasing insurance online can be quick, easy, and efficient, and can be done from anywhere, at any time.

The concept is easy: Provide some basic information about your business and you will get a quote in moments.

Here are a few more benefits of buying insurance online:

• 24-hour Access — Websites are typically available seven days a week, and you can complete the online quoting process at the time that is convenient for you.
• Price Comparison — With access to the online market, you can often get multiple quotes to compare prices and purchase coverage quickly.
• Helpful Information — Numerous online insurance platforms offer a wide range of information, aiming to simplify the process of research and shopping.

The Convenience of Talking on the Phone

Similar to purchasing online, buying insurance via the phone has its own benefits. A live agent can work with you to identify the appropriate type of insurance and amount of coverage your business may need.

Here are some additional benefits of purchasing insurance with a licensed agent via the phone:

• Knowledge and expertise — A licensed insurance professional can answer any questions you may have regarding your coverage and save you time hunting down the information on your own.
• Handling complex and unusual business risks — An agent can help identify if your business is exposed to unique risks and help find suitable coverage.
• Understanding what you’re buying — A licensed professional can explain the purpose of different coverages and help you determine which coverages you may want to consider for your business.
• Personalized buyer experience — Every customer’s needs are different, and with a licensed professional, you will have a tailored experience to fit your needs.

The Best of Both Worlds

Now that we've highlighted the qualities of each option individually, let's explore how important they are when combined.

• Seamless Communication — Experience professional assistance through chat, email, and phone channels.
• Time Flexibility and Availability — Enjoy the convenience of shopping for insurance during business hours with a live agent, or online 24/7.
• Coverage Selection — Our online process does a good job at recommending coverages and you also have the ability to chat with an agent if you have questions or want help comparing quotes.
• Managing Coverage — Whether you need to update payment information, access a policy document (like a certificate of insurance, or to add coverage, you can do it yourself online or with the help of an agent over the phone.

Research indicates that during the online purchase phase, customers are more likely to make phone calls, which often lead to discovering the most competitively priced insurance coverage. By combining the convenience and speed of online transactions with personalized guidance from a representative, business owners can make informed coverage decisions while enjoying a seamless experience.

The Simply Business Difference

As you can see, the real convenience is the ability to purchase coverage with an insurer who provides the best of both worlds. Studies show that 74% of consumers research insurance purchases online, but only 25% then purchase online. These numbers speak volumes.

At Simply Business, we offer convenient options to purchase insurance coverage. Having the freedom to choose the one that suits you best is priceless. Allow me to outline how we ensure convenience for you:

• Personalized Support: We guide you through the quoting process, whether you prefer online or phone interactions. Our team of licensed insurance professionals is dedicated to ensuring a smooth experience.
• Flexibility for Busy Schedules: If your schedule is hectic, we understand. We've encountered many situations where customers were too busy to complete their purchase via the phone. In such cases, we provide easy steps to purchase online, allowing you to obtain immediate proof of insurance within moments.
• Online Insurance Agent Chats: If you've completed your quote online but still need assistance before making a purchase, we offer online chats with our licensed insurance agents.

Every situation is unique, which is why it is crucial to choose an insurance company that offers the flexibility of both online and phone options to meet your specific needs.

Whether it is Workers’ Compensation, General Liability, Professional Liability, or Inland Marine, Simply Business is here for you, on the phone or online.