Kathmandu. Modern technology has transformed human life to this point. Where almost every service is available at any time. This change is also affecting the insurance sector. Therefore, it is natural for the new generation to ask, “When everything is easily available online, is the role of an insurance agent really necessary today?”
Not only the rapid pace of technology, but also big advertising campaigns try to convince people that buying insurance is as easy as booking tickets online. But the reality is different. Insurance is a financial protection. Which hides a myriad of legal risks, financial liabilities, and decisions that depend on personal circumstances. This complex structure is difficult for the average consumer to understand and this is where the importance of a skilled insurance agent becomes apparent.
Independent insurance agencies represent clients in a way that online platforms never can. They analyse insurance policies from different companies and select the best protection for the customer. Many insurance companies do not sell policies directly to customers. Instead, they provide services through agencies.
As a result, even though only a few policies are displayed online, agents offer a wider and more competitive choice. The job of an insurance agent is not only to quote the price, but there are other important things as well. They analyze the risks, explain the terms of the policy and explain the financial impact of the loss to the customer.
In many cases, the temptation of a cheaper policy leads people to choose a policy that does not really provide them with the protection they need. Insurance legality or coverage limits may seem vague to the average buyer. However, a skilled agent has the ability to explain them and warn them of the real risks.
Changing life circumstances also change the type of insurance. Events such as buying a new home, changing careers, increasing wealth, increasing family responsibilities and joining a voluntary organization can change the level of risk. Digital platforms cannot capture the subtleties of these human variables. Algorithms read specific data and provide results. However, they cannot analyse the underlying impact of the situation.
Agents, on the other hand, use real-world experience to predict how future risks might unfold.
The role of an agent is also important in the insurance claim or indemnification process. People are already stressed during an accident or damage. Waiting in line for an online chatbot or customer service can make the situation more difficult. In contrast, the agent quickly coordinates and assists with how to file a claim, what documents are required, and how the compensation process will proceed.
Many people think that online insurance saves time. However, they often don’t realize that these platforms usually only display policies from specific companies. Customers then assume that the options available to them reflect the entire market. Which is not true. Without competition, the chances of getting the best price or the best coverage decrease.
According to analysts, advice based on human experience, perspective and decision-making will remain important in the insurance sector. Algorithms can read data, but they can’t really predict a person’s life stage, change, emotions and risk. Therefore, an insurance agent is not only a relic of the past but also a consultant. Which strengthens the foundation of people’s financial security.
Digital convenience is definitely the need of the hour. But negligent decisions in security often lead to bigger problems. That’s why experts believe that despite the benefits of technology, it’s still important to seek the advice of an insurance agent. Just as caution is the greatest protection against life’s daunting risks. Similarly, having a skilled agent by your side in the future may be the best and most logical decision.
