Insurance Broker vs. Insurance Companies: Are There Advantages?

Insurance is a necessary purchase – not one that you can take weeks to consider or simply decide not to make. It is a kind of protection against unseen forces –those that can bring a homeowner or company to their knees in an instant. Many people rush out to find the most publicized, well advertised insurance agencies – searching for the lowest rate possible. While this can save some stress on your wallet, it may not give your family or your business the best coverage, or the best service. Insurance Brokers on the other hand may be a better option; especially for those who are first time insurance buyers or for smaller companies. 

When most people purchase insurance through a company, they are promised lower rates, better service and consistent payment reductions due to “good behavior”. This is especially true for car insurance and motorcycle insurance. But unfortunately, the reality is, unless a change comes down the pipes that will affect all insurance holders, this will probably not happen. Customers have to be ever-vigilant over their policies and hound agents and companies to lower their rates. Brokers on the other hand, have a more personal relationship with their clients, and because of this their customers often benefit from better service and much better knowledge about the insurance industry in general. 

Also stemming from this more intimate relationship is the ability to have a policy that’s tailored especially for you. Insurance brokers are committed to finding the best options for their customers – it’s their purpose. (That’s not to say that brokers aren’t out to make cash –they need to eat too.) In fact, independent brokers usually charge an admin fee on top of the rates. Larger insurance companies can often promise rates so low potential clients get so impressed they sign on the dotted line without a second though… but at what cost? Some of the policies are so basic your home, vehicle or company wouldn’t stand a chance recouping any losses.

Larger companies’ lower rates can also lead people to believe that they have an advocate in their agent. Unfortunately, agents tend to be more experienced with the administrative side of policies and the insurance industry; rather than looking for the best options for their clients, while brokers are required to have a license which generally comes with more education and experience. Brokers will ensure that your home insurance, auto or commercial insurance policies are thorough and correct. 

If ever you have to put in a claim through your agency (which most of us have to do at some point) you may find that speaking to the people at the “National Office” or the call centre employees just doesn’t cut it. An insurance broker, on the other hand, lives right in your city, maybe even your community, and has the time to sit down and make sure you are taken care of with compassion and speed.

Yes, there are advantages to a large insurance company or an agent who works for one: you’ll be promised a dirt cheap rate, and you just may be lucky enough to qualify for one. But you’ll never speak to the same person twice, and probably never figure out what your policy covers exactly. An insurance broker is there to be an advocate and to make sure that you’re back is covered, no matter what.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is currently researching Commercial Insurance and insurance brokers in Alberta.

Home Insurance Claims: Help, my house flooded – now what?

Home Insurance is a necessary purchase. It provides a sense of protection, even for the protectors of the house. It’s a special message that says “Don’t worry; we’ve got your back.” But what happens when there’s an accident… the hot water tank blows up, the basement floods, there’s too much rain…?  What do you do after the flood? Most policy owners don’t read or even look at their policies before there’s a claim to make. When that time comes will you know what to do?

Step 1: Don’t Panic. Accidents in the home can be life threatening. After your family’s safety is ensured - it’s time to take a step back and realize that your home is a structure, the possessions are only material objects. If you’ve had a bad flood, it’s important to take stock of what is there. If you’ve had a smaller-scale accident, take heart in the fact that you will most likely be replacing some old items and try to salvage what you can.

Step 2: Do whatever you have to do to stop the damage from spreading (without putting yourself in harm’s way). Don’t pile wet items on dry carpet or leave the damage to get worse – turn the water off, etc. . . After the immediate brouhaha is over –don’t touch anything… It’s time to make a phone call. 

Step 3: Call your insurance broker, pronto. If you do not have a broker, call the local rep from your company.  This is the time to chat about your deductible and decide whether or not you want to make a claim. Take a really good look at the damage… most deductibles are $500 - $1000.

Will you have to:

·         Replace carpet?

·         Replace damaged items?

·         Repaint?

·         Fix structural damage?

·         Replace drywall?

If you have answered “yes” to any of the above questions, it is wise to pay the deductible and get the help you need to resolve any issues. Even if you have to dry out your carpet rather than replace, you will still need new underlay and professional drying equipment. Consider the damage, repair and labour before you decide not to make the claim!

Step 4: Record the Incident. Before the restoration crew or insurance broker comes to your house to take stock of the damage, get your digital camera out and snap pictures of everything was damaged by the surprise flood. Make a list of the possessions damaged by the water, but don’t move anything. Insurance claims usually include the service of packing and moving your possessions and that includes damaged items.

Step 5: Be fair and fill out all of the necessary paperwork in order to not only have your house back to the way it was, but also to replace items that may have taken a hit. Don’t pussyfoot around –you pay a high price every month for insurance, and this is when you’re extremely glad you do. On the same note, don’t be greedy. Insurance brokers and companies will be fair but they will not re-do your house for nothing! Also, make sure that the restoration company involved has direct contact with the insurance company and knows exactly what they will and will NOT cover. 

Step 6: Sit back and enjoy the fact that someone else is doing the work! For the minimum price of a deductible, you can have a new room, new basement or new floor! At least take heart in that and maybe consider a change of paint colour or flooring. Always wanted hardwood instead of carpet ? This may be the time to switch – the flooring company will find your previous floor cover and match the price – you only have to pay the difference.

Step 7: After the work has been completed, take a walk around and look at the quality of what has been done. If you are not 100% satisfied with the work, do not sign off on it. It is the restoration or construction company’s job to make things look good and do the job properly. Don’t be afraid to say “Can you please touch this up?” 

Every claim process is a bit different, and every situation is unique. A minor flood is a stressful situations to have to go through, especially if you have personal items damaged in the process. Remember that all will be well again, with the help of your insurance broker, your restoration company and some patience!

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is currently researching Edmonton Insurance Brokers.

From Taekwondo Patterns to the Breast Stroke: 5 Activities for a Healthy Winter

Harsh winters can be the death of a healthy lifestyle. Once the snow’s on the ground the fireplace is on, the hot chocolate comes out and everyone settles in for a nice lethargic winter. By the time the snow clears the kids can’t remember how to tie their shoes, let alone work up a sweat. Even when the temperatures drop, kids need activities to keep their little bodies moving and their blood pumping. Building snow forts and bringing Frosty to life are fun, but 3 feet of snow and /or frigid temperatures might deter them from too many jaunts into the backyard. Even particularly harsh winters (Canada – I’m looking at you!) can send the most avid skiers and snowboarders running for the duvet. Instead of risking frostbite, why not choose an activity that allows your children to have the best of both worlds… making snow angels when it’s tolerable and taekwondo patterns at night? They’ll stay warm, fit and have fun– winter never looked so good.

Taekwondo
Patterns and sparring aside, this sport is hours of sweaty, intense fun for little ones. It ensures discipline, skill and confidence and kids have fun while they’re doing it. Although taekwondo schools are generally more expensive than other activities, the level of instruction is much higher than other sports and you can bet on an experience that’s worth your cash. Children learn that the harder they work, the more they are rewarded- earning a new belt isn’t easy but when they achieve it, all of the effort is worth it. Many taekwondo schools even offer before and after school care so kids can have some activity every day, instead of sitting on their rumps at daycare; it’s a great way to wind down the day. Parents of preschoolers don’t despair; most schools have programs for kids as young as three years old. 

Indoor Soccer
Soccer is one of the most popular kids’ sports right now – who says the fun has to stop when the snow hits the ground! Children who enjoy this high energy sport can participate all year-round. Many community soccer clubs offer the opportunity to bring the cleats indoors during the winter months, with just as much excitement and a little less mosquito action! Teaching kids coordination and teamwork, soccer is a great option for those who are on a budget as well – generally this sport is not nearly as expensive as others, yet offers the same health benefits and age-appropriate skill levels as other activities.

Swimming
Not for landlubbers, swimming is a great, low-impact activity that keeps children moving all winter long. Year-round swimming lessons are not only cheap, but are offered at the majority of community leisure centres, along with competitive swimming options for those children who excel at this sport. Swimming in general is an individual activity and offers a challenge to kids to pass each level during the allotted time period (usually about 6 weeks). Kids have fun splashing around, while also learning invaluable water safety lessons and confidence in the water. Offered for kids as young as six months old (parented), these courses are sure to keep your little mermaid (or merman) happy.

Climbing
Rock climbing is not your average kids’ activity; it requires focus, determination and the ability to support your lower body with what seems like brute strength. This sport is not for the faint of heart and is best suited to those kids who like being challenged. Indoor climbing facilities offer stat-of-the-art rock walls, safety gear and instruction. Starting as young as five years old, little ones can learn the basics of scaling rock walls and focusing on a goal. This is an intense activity that offers stellar health benefits and a lot of old fashioned fun. As a higher priced activity, these 10-week courses are worth the price, but make sure your nearest facility has at least a partial refund policy just in case little Aidan or Emma decides scaling pretend mountains isn’t “da bomb”.

Hockey
Hockey is one of the most traditional winter sports, and one of the most popular. Once an activity only for boys, little girls are now excelling on mixed (and female) teams as well. This sport is an obvious choice and teaches teamwork, coordination and true grit. It is however one of the most expensive sports to take part in (due to equipment, tournaments and community fees) and requires a huge time commitment as well. If your little one can handle 2-3 practices a week at higher levels, and is adept at skating, then this is the sport to choose. It is a high-energy, fun filled game which many kids enjoy, and which can open many doors for truly skilled players.

So no matter which winter activity you and your children choose, it’s likely that your tots will greet the spring with renewed confidence, skill and a healthy outlook on what could have been the long, cold, grey days of winter.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is a Mom of two and is currently researching children’s’ activities and before and after school care for kids.

Simple Marketing for Small Businesses

As a small business owner who probably struggles with the everyday operations of business and overhead, marketing can sometimes become a secondary concern. This is a mistake that many people make due to lack of experience, budget and marketing know-how. Many businesses fail, not because of profit margins, but because their product or service is not marketed correctly. Marketing can seem unnecessary, expensive and complicated to many but the reality is that it is indispensible, affordable and very easy- if you have the right tools. Simple marketing for small businesses is all around us.

Planning
The first thing any small business needs is a marketing plan. This is similar to a business plan but instead outlines marketing tools and techniques for an organization. A basic marketing plan should include:

Executive Summary or Overview: What is the marketing plan about? Your company’s overall strategy? Or a component / product /service? Include an overview of your objectives, goals and timelines.

S.W.O.T. Analysis: the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for a business.

Goals: What do you want to accomplish with your marketing efforts?

Message: what will be the message (s) you send to your target audience?

Marketing Strategies: What strategies best fit with what you are marketing?

Timeline: Create a time period in which you will be implementing your strategies

Budget: how much can you spend?

Evaluation: How will you evaluate your success? (ROI, analytics, newsletter subscribers, etc.)

Strategies
There are two categories of marketing methods; those we consider “Traditional” and Online.

Traditional:

Print: Including dailies and weeklies – paid and free. These marketing tools are valuable sources for news and advertising for your target market. The price varies greatly with these types of advertising with the weeklies and free local papers generally being the cheapest.

Television and Radio: These are not usually popular marketing tools for small businesses due to the cost and the ability of the masses to fast forward through commercials and receive satellite radio now. For larger companies they are essential.

Outdoor: Billboards can be very cost effective with the number of impressions they make. However, small business advertising can get somewhat lost with this platform if not done with a smaller local company.

Online

A relatively new venue for marketing tools, it is now becoming essential for every business to have an online presence. It is cheaper, can be more targeted and offers stellar market research that can open many new doors for a company. 

Website: A must for small businesses. This can represent a source of information for your audience, or it can represent a store location, providing online shoppers the option of shopping from home rather than visiting a physical location.

Social Media: This is a rapidly growing marketing tool that almost every company can take advantage of. It encompasses companies and platforms such as: Blogs, Facebook, Youtube and Twitter (among many others) and is a free tool. It also provides the opportunity for invaluable customer feedback and interaction.

Pay-Per-Click Advertising and Search Engine Optimization: Bucking against the norm of paying for an ad and hoping your target market will see it, PPC follows a bit of a different path. Company owners pay each time their ad is clicked on. This offers a much more targeted path to the company’s website, product pages or social media page. Search Engine Optimization offers keyword-enriched search data for websites, ads, social media and more; trying to ensure that the right people see your online profile.

To be truly effective, smaller companies need to combine both traditional and online marketing tools; however, starting out with the online portion is usually more budget-friendly for smaller organizations. Each method and platform should be chose]n based on the target markets’ preferences and tendencies (marketing a home for the elderly may not fare to well on Twitter, etc.)

No matter the method, budget, timeline or size of the company marketing will play a necessary and essential part of every company’s success. By following these simple marketing steps, any company can maximize not only their visibility, but also their profit.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is marketing professional and is currently researching Advertising in Edmonton, Alberta and local communities, where she currently resides.

Maximize Your Message: The 3 Top (Paid) Methods of Local Small Business Advertising

Marketing and advertising encompass many different ideas, methods and motives. But when small businesses start to strategize about where the most “bang for their bucks” are, there’s no question that there are three main types of advertising that will deliver their message precisely and effectively. Print, Outdoor Digital and Online advertising are by far the best investments for smaller companies due to their cost effectiveness and targeted delivery, among other advantages. 

Print
Effective small business advertising depends on one thing: ROI. What’s coming in versus what’s going out is the main concern and traditional print advertising is in no way a great example of an exciting (or even visible) ROI. However, there are several ways to make print work for your company in a big way. Instead of larger local dailies, seek out smaller weeklies or dailies that are locally owned and produced. Every major Canadian city has dozens of smaller papers targeted to not only the mass public, but also to smaller sectors of your audience. Generally these organizations are much more likely to give you a deal on a bigger spot or a package for return customers as well. One big advantage of print as well is that paper tends to stick around a little longer.

Outdoor Digital Advertising
Long thought of as terribly expensive and only for larger companies, today’s digital outdoor advertising companies are breaking off into smaller, locally owned business ready to help other locally owned companies make their mark on the town. Digital advertising is the most effective out-of-home advertising platform; LED technology can rotate the images so quickly that the drive-time audiences have no choice but to take a gander at companies’ larger-than-life graphics. And contrary to popular opinion, this form of advertising can be much cheaper that many others, including print. The key to hitting it big with this platform is finding a smaller company with stellar locations around the city.

Online Advertising
Quickly becoming the marketing darling of local business marketing, online ads are fast proving their worth in regards to cost and ROI. Online giants like Google offer quick, free keyword research tools and a cheap extremely target way to reach target audiences. Using previously stored information about everyone and anyone who has used their search engine services, these companies know exactly who to flash a company’s ad to. Other organizations and online platforms such as Facebook and Twitter have followed suit complimenting their free services with paid, pay-per-click ads. Companies only pay when an ad has been “clicked” or followed to the exact path the has been strategically optimized for potential customers. ( An important note here is to have a fantastic landing point for those who are clicking on the ads – your website should be a virtual sales tool, and how!)

Advertising tools and marketing for small business shouldn’t have to be hit or miss – the methods are there, the costs can be low while the impact colossal. Smaller companies need to squeeze the life out of every marketing and advertising dollar and these three platforms are the best and most successful way to do so.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is marketing professional and is currently researching Advertising in Edmonton, Alberta and local communities, where she currently resides.