What to Expect in the First Year

[DavidShane]

I would like to find out what one can expect in the first year as far as income in the P&C side of insurance. If you go to work for a agent what is the pay? I am talking about a salary plus commission type of job. I am working on my license. Just want to know what to expect.

 

[djs]

It depends a lot on where you are in California and then what agency you go to. The lower the salary and the higher the commission, the higher potential income.

Straight salary, you would be looking at $30-50K per year would be my guess. Commission obviously has a lot of variables involved, but being something of a realist, 1st year I would expect $40-$70K if you were straight commission. Anything less, you don't survive.

The problem with the question is it assumes there is a standard. There really isn't. The numbers I'm quoting are based on what I've seen happen, but they can vary a LOT. I'm trying to temper blatent optimism with a strong dose of reality. It's a lot easier for me to say you'll make $100K +, but, while possible, the odds in the first year are significantly against it.

Dan

 

[DavidShane]

Thanks Dan. I am not looking to make 100k the first year although that would be nice. I am in CA. I have 10 years of sales experience. What would be the best way for me to go about getting hired on with a company? Should I fax them my resume, walk into the offices, or call around? Also I have ben told not to bother looking for a job until I have my license. Do you agree with this?