Insurance direct mailing techniques destroy TV advertising

People are direct mailing techniques, email today from insurance and bombarded TV advertising. However, a technique to mass is to gain exposure, although important direct response making sales. Here are 15 reasons why insurance direct-mailing destroyed television ad results.

50% of TV viewing, you watch out for show, and not directly call in buy people have made. They appear for branding. Implant of their brand in the head, so the next time you a product like that, who buy it are a being in the tv advertising.

DIRECT MAIL advertising is for SOFORTMAßNAHMEN

1. Not every display television enjoys the show to be interrupted without their control. With insurance direct mail advertising decides your prospects as the most convenient time for him.

2. TV advertising cover a wide range that visually stimulate senses and get you questions, who made this piece of junk.

3. The production costs for all TV viewing are extremely expensive and often outrageous.

4 Ads are television with a few exceptions for the benefit of society, and rarely, to show the capabilities of your sales agents.

5. Position aligned. Map with direct mail sales you control the exact locality or region to which your message.

6. A TV spot must often well over a month to produce a negative time interval. Mail advertising can be changed immediately and sends the modified message immediately.

7. Check the cost. A total of 5,000 quality prospects can get your insurance mailing message for under $2,500 in total. This could be 50 to 100 people with an interest in your product purchase pass.

(8) It is a rarity for a TV spot to show a direct practical source set directly in contact with a live staff.

9. In the television, you are always guess that your ad reaches the correct gender, income level and age group for the product.

10. Use of insurance direct marketing techniques, to refine your prospects can accurate demographic, geographical and financial data.

11. Direct mail ads offer both call the direct telephone number, and often have a e-Mail address not the distribution company, but the sales department or sales person.

12. Mail view can you determine, to about the height of the Vista asks you get before you spend advertising budget.

13. Time your television viewing is not uncommon for 6 competitors to advertise a similar product.

14. The TV program the, which I see you suitable for the family, but some of which is the subject of today's commercials more adult... Their TV ad could just before one of these.

15. You can advertising respondents quickly on direct mail with an appointment or a sales follow-up.

Since sales are the NAME of the game can you see the great advantage of this direct mail insurance has to have TV commercials. Many big names in TV advertisers like GEICO colonial Penn and United Healthcare also millions and millions on direct mail advertising spend, like them, that knowledge is where their actual individual sales will be.

Well published author, loves Don Yerke on what you do not know, or what else dares nobody to focus print. To tell it like it is.

Pay attention to his new paperback on Amazon's debut early this summer. It is loaded information marketing and recruitment with great insurance.

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Looking for more about the progressive commercial girl

Is it really all these great looking? Really, what's so great about Stephanie Courtney? It is actually a virtual unknown to progressive insurance with a commercial released. So, now it is the progressive commercial girl.

Although not spectacularly beautiful Stephanie Courtney, which has a progressive commercial girl, making waves on the Internet. She began as an actor and is transformed into an actress. She appeared in several bit roles or voice over roles in television.

The progressive commercial is probably ultimately more and more recognition than they ever before. After all Internet is global, and it is getting worldwide attention.

Of all the people who have read about it, how many have actually seen it in action? Is a commercial is really not a good gauge one's acting ability. With such a short exposure on the screen, it's a miracle that they even noticed!

This is only to show that either progressive insurance double time that there is a buzz about Stephanie Courtney, or it is one of the greatest actress of our time really works!

What do we really know about the new progressive commercial girl? "Wow" - that is their famous slogan. Not, that adorable? Of course you need it to appreciate it hear.

In any case, the new commercial girl, the box office with the name of Flo is now the only progressive commercial girl. You will play as Flo always in a number of progressive commercial, Flo, the box office. Its nature is beautiful and charming. The progressive commercial this girl has managed to book several TV appearances and is quick to be an actress worth a second look on.

Today Stephanie Courtney is all great looking girl in Hollywood definitely go in the right direction, and do it the right way. Viewers on television has to with the introduction of the Internet, significantly decreased, so it only makes sense to try it big in the cyber world as also television. Great job, Stephanie. Super job, progressive insurance!

Umer Hayat and Manager in one of the most famous multinational insurance company is the name of the author. He have great experience in the insurance industry and it's types. He was also a member of many other international insurance companies. so that he knows almost everything in terms of insurance and it is types.

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The commercial cost of flood-related damage

One of the top priorities is to ensure that the shop against all odds of flood-related damage are covered the merchant with a store for your own. This is caused for equipment in a warehouse or in the Office and warehouse for the simple reason that a company or individual could well be bankrupt straight down damage. This is the reason why a prudent Merchant shall ensure himself has assured the calculation of the potential economic costs of flood damage loss of business, against such.

Many people are under the impression that it is not important, could get their businesses against flood-related damage to insure because they do not happen live close to a water source, which flooded in the near future. However, they take not one important thing in the right perspective - a flood can occur almost anywhere and at any time. This is the reason, why a good businessman must make sure that he bear the brunt of flood-related damage.

Imagine that your Office, warehouse and showcase only flooded due to a burst pipe have been somewhere on the premises. Or the water company decided to close to your Office, in the direction of your camp overflow, and you came back from the weekend, only to see your stored were totally were. While it may seem not very plausible, this should show you, that every business is vulnerable to any type of flood and also means, that the most prudent course of action is to ensure that you do not suffer, by monetary losses due to such an unprecedented event takes place.

This is the reason why it is necessary to the commercial flood-related damage, calculating which include the replacement of your building. This can be done one by a proper flood insurance. This ensures that you are properly compensated if your building in the floods is been washed away.

The loss of material in your inventory, as well as merchandise must be calculated after a flood. This means, that every single item that was damaged replaced will. You can use either the brunt of this financial loss you wear yourself or the refund is carried out, you have received proper and adequate flood insurance.

Many insurance companies offer this insurance to showcase or even service providers.

Also a very expensive solution because of the all the debris that has been left on the site is cleaning up after the aftermath of a flood. That these issues also in the commercial cost of flood-related damages the reason why a businessman has is calculated. However, if they have already guaranteed one against such high potential cost through a comprehensive flood insurance, the directive is to cover these additional financial burden.

That is the reason why an entrepreneur with vision always against such eventualities calculated and is sure that he will be adequately protected against such drastic commercial financial losses arising from flood-related damage. So the most sensible idea is to check that, "can it happen," instead way of "it will never happen" and you protect yourself from such an expected expenditure by a flood insurance.

Derek Rogers is a freelance writer, the company represents a number of UK. For insurance claims, he recommends flood [http://www.morganclark.co.uk/domestic_flood.htm] Morgan Clark.

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Tips to buy your commercial insurance online

Running a business for everyone can be hard, and if it can be to choose of the right of insurance package, it will certainly run its toll. That not the case, should try to find a high-quality policy provider. As you can imagine this not is easiest company in the world, but it is something that needs to be done, and with a little work, you can certainly take it off. The first thing you need to understand that buy your insurance policy online is is crucial to keep your business afloat, and with that the case you want to do your best to choose the right business policy and of course one that fit your business. That aside, is there a few things which you need be careful, if you buy insurance in commercial property.

* First of all, make sure that you select options that meet your business. When you fill out the forms, questions try: "this is relevant for my business?" If you are not able to answer "Yes" to this question, must be understood then, that no matter how cheap the package, it more than likely is not the correct package or policy for you.

* You can the cheapest package of course buy kind be and many people can relate to, but not heavy machinery use, then you certainly will not want a policy that covers it. In addition to that will probably want to avoid any accidental injury insurance buy if you are running an accounting company. As you can see commercial insurance can be complicated, but that doesn't mean, it must be impossible!

* Search for your commercial insurance online is easy and all you really need to do is head into your favorite search engine. Just search for the insurance you need and you will be rewarded with a list of links that will more than likely lead the right policy. If these links lead directly to it, you will likely be able to search a directory of insurance, you with what you need.

* Insurance directories are used, providers show you a list of all insurance in your area and at the national level have decent prices, and you should be able to receive a quote within minutes. Once you have your quote you can move to more complicated in the process of selecting the collection and the purchasing policy.

One of the greatest parts about online purchases is the fact that you get proof of insurance coverage for instant you can print directly from your computer. This proof will be valid everywhere, and you will be able to print multiple cards for your purposes. That aside, it's time for you your perfect policy and your company are assured whether you need vehicle cover, property insurance, or both.

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Discover the top 15 Secrets of successful commercial property ownership!

1.) What's Your Type?

There are many different types of commercial properties that you can purchase including:

o Office
o Retail Space
o Warehouse Facility
o Restaurant
o Commercial Condo
o Strip Mall

The first step is clearly defining what type of property you want to purchase and how you want to use it. The following information will help you maximize your investment dollars to get the best possible deal when purchasing your property.

2. Build Equity With Your Investment

Equity is Money

Building equity is the primary if not the ultimate reason to buy instead of rent a commercial property. Let's face it. It's money in the bank. In fact, it's better than money in the bank because you can't get the same kind of return on your money when it's sitting in the bank as opposed to when you're building equity. Moreover, if you choose the right financing for your commercial real estate purchase, you can not only build equity through ownership, but you can also leverage your capital saving in order to grow your business, hire additional employees, or even purchase an additional location when the time comes.

Owning beats renting because you can sell your investment once you outgrow the space or sell the business. Even if commercial property in your area has not appreciated (which is unlikely), you can recoup your investment by renting out the space once you move out and by selling when the time is right.

If you plan on growing into your building, buy something larger than your current needs, and rent out the extra space until you need it for expansion. This will provide you with steady income that you can use to help pay your mortgage or invest in your business.

3. Calculate Your Savings And Your Potential Profit

Lower Monthly Payments

Consider buying commercial real estate as a savings for your business. Real estate costs are the third largest business expense, behind payroll and taxes. Long loan amortizations mean that your monthly payments could wind up being less than what you would pay for rent, since landlords usually charge more than their monthly loan payment. In other words, owning your own commercial property may actually be more affordable, depending on current market conditions.

Ask your lender to provide you with an analysis of the current market in your area so that you can see which scenario is best for you (renting or buying). The lender should be able to explain your options in detail with examples of monthly rental costs vs. monthly loan payments and the benefits of each.

Analyze the Rent Value

Upon finding a property that peaks your interest, find out the status of the current tenants (if it is a multi-tenant property) in terms of how much rent they are paying. Check the current market to see if the rents are undervalued, meaning below what you can get in the current market. Your realtor or lender should be able to help you figure out how much you could charge for rent and determine how much of a profit you can make each month.

Tax Advantages

There are many tax advantages to becoming an owner of a commercial property. In most cases, you can deduct part of the value of the building at tax time, as well as improvements you've made as depreciation, which can save you more money on your taxes. Buying the property under your business or corporation's name is also a better tax strategy than under your personal name.

4. Do Your Research

The more you can learn about property types and options, mortgages, financing, zoning and remodeling; the better position you'll be in to make wise decisions concerning the acquisition of a commercial property.

However, you don't have to know everything. That's where putting together a powerful team of professionals proficient in their areas of expertise may be your most important step. Building a team of advisors - people you can trust to steer you in the right direction is critical to your success.

Understand Current Market Conditions

Keep your eyes open for news articles pertaining to the commercial real estate market. Is it "hot" right now? Is it a buyers' or sellers' market? What kinds of interest rates are available?

The Internet is a great place to start. Conducting a Google search for "commercial real estate market," for instance, will give you results that include news and resources for national trends, analytics and market research.

In addition, many realtors, lenders and lawyers across the country offer free and timely articles on their websites that shed light on current commercial real estate trends nationwide. Again, make sure you listen to both sides of the story.

Tap Expert Resources

National market research companies can give you specific information about the area where you're preparing to locate your business. You can also find information on demographics including the median age, household income, breakdown of ethnicities, and more from censuses available from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Also contact commercial lenders or realtors for additional resources. In looking for help, it's usually better to talk to a lender or realtor with nationwide experience and up-to-date information than a small-time operation that might not have recent data for you. If the lender/realtor hasn't gotten updated demographics since 1996, you've essentially wasted your time. Also, a lender or realtor that specializes in the type of property you're looking for will be more likely to have the specific information you need, which will save you time in research.

Study the Current Vacancy Rate

Research what the vacancy rate has been over the past few years for the area you're taking into consideration. If there seem to be high levels of vacancies, try to find why. Is it a bad neighborhood? Talk to store owners in the immediate area and find out how long they've been doing business there. Ask if they have any concerns that you as a potential property owner should know about the area.

Research Commercial Realtors

It's important to research commercial realtors that specialize in the type of space you're looking for. Grill the realtor you are considering selecting on the entire purchase process so you know what to expect. Ask how long the process usually takes so that there are no surprises. Check their references and their track record (more on finding a Commercial Realtor in #5).

Examine Experienced Commercial Lenders

Choosing a lender and financing program is just as important as choosing the property. Again, find out the entire process of financing, as well as your different options. Don't assume that just because you've had a relationship with your bank for years that using their financing is the best choice.

Banks don't always offer the lowest rate for commercial loans, and sometimes have a far longer turnaround than non-bank lenders. Some banks require that you transfer your accounts to them in order to qualify for a loan. Be aware of any stipulations when seeking a bank for a commercial loan.

5. Choose the Right Commercial Realtor

As mentioned before, you need qualified partners to help you with the process of buying commercial property. Start with a terrific commercial realtor.

Some commercial realtors work exclusively with individuals interested in investment properties. Others work with owners/users of commercial real estate, and among those some specialize in property management, which can be an added value to you.

Who Do You Know?

Referrals from trusted sources are usually the best way to find a good commercial realtor.

Ask Questions

Set up a meeting with more than one potential commercial realtor. Find out as much as you can about their professional background, education, and experience with your type of property. You can ask for a list of recent transactions to give you an idea of what they deal with on a regular basis, and how many properties they've actually sold in the last year or two. And most importantly, ask for client references (testimonials)! Real client feedback is the most effective measure for potential success.

The Right Match

Make sure you choose a realtor that understands your specific needs. If you are a small business, you don't want to work with a realtor that normally handles multi-million dollar deals. Your project may become less of a priority when that particular realtor gets a bigger commission to worry about.

6. Consider Your Time Frame

If the reason you are looking for commercial property is because your lease is ending, think twice before jumping into a decision you might regret. Finding just the right space, securing financing and going through the process of obtaining a commercial property can take months. If you don't have that kind of time, you may need to rent month-to-month for now.

Take Your Time

While you may be in a hurry to move into a space, take your time. Buying any kind of property is a major decision, and buying commercial property is even more important for the development and growth of your business. Selecting a property in the wrong area, or a space that doesn't allow you to grow can hinder your company and even cause it to fail, so plan carefully.

If the realtor or lender gives you an estimate of three months from start to close, plan for longer - just in case. Keep in mind there are many people involved in the process of buying property, from the seller, realtor, lender, appraiser, surveyor, paperwork approvers, secretaries, and more and this process can often take slightly longer.

7. Location, Location, Location

One of the most important factors in considering commercial property is location. If a property is located on a busy corner that is difficult to get to, your business may not do well (in fact, that's probably why the property is for sale). If you want to operate a dog kennel and the property you're considering is in a residential area, not only will your business disturb the residents, the zoning laws may prevent you from operating there.

Foot Traffic

For a retail business, look for areas with high foot traffic that will give you the exposure and increased walk-ins you need to be successful.

If you are looking for an industrial or manufacturing facility, then you can stay out of the retail limelight and buy something in a warehouse district. These areas are usually cheaper than retail space.

Easy Access

Make sure your location has easy access from the road. Look to see if the site is at a difficult intersection. Is there construction going on that seems like it won't be ending any time soon? On the other hand, what's the potential once the construction is completed?

Check out the Competition

If you want to open a bistro in a neighborhood that has several bistros, you might want to try somewhere else with less competition. However, a healthy population of restaurants usually means a healthy population of customers.

Know Your Customer

Find out the demographics of the area you're interested in. If you want to move your sports apparel shop to a new location, you'll probably want an area with a high percentage of youth and active adults. An urban area with a lot of pedestrian traffic might be better for this kind of retail shop than a suburban area in a retirement community.

8. Free Parking

We've all spent time driving around and around looking for a parking spot. It can be very frustrating, especially when you're running late. Whenever possible, you want a location that has ample parking for your visitors.
If you have a retail store, restaurant, or other high-traffic business, estimate how many customers or visitors you're likely to have at any given time and consider rejecting any properties that have fewer available parking spaces than your estimates. Again, use your best judgment and consult your realtor.

Avoid Headaches

Also pay attention to how your parking is situated. If it's located just off a major road, it may provide a headache for people trying to back out of the parking space, and may even cause accidents. When visiting the property, see how well you can maneuver the parking. If it's a hassle for you, it will be doubly so for a potential customer or visitor.

9. Get in the Zone

Before you begin the negotiation process for a commercial property, make sure to investigate the zoning laws, as well as what types of businesses you are able operate there. There are zoning laws about the type of business that can be conducted in certain spaces.

For instance, some spaces do not permit food and beverage to be served, or may have restrictions on how late a business can operate. The typical zoning districts in most cities include: residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use.

Don't Assume

Zoning can be tricky, so do your due diligence on this topic. Don't assume that just because the previous tenant of the space had a restaurant that the property you're looking at is necessarily zoned for food and beverage. Many businesses slide under the radar for months or years while violating zoning laws. Making assumptions can cost you big time and big money when it comes to zoning.

Regulations

Zoning laws can regulate not only the type of business that can operate, but also parking, signs, water and air quality, waste management, noise, appearance of building and more. Find out any and all regulations regarding the property in advance.

Visit your local library or zoning office to get information on all the zoning laws, rules and regulations that apply to the property you're considering for purchase. Talk to people at the zoning office if you have concerns or questions prior to making the investment. Ask your realtor to double-check your efforts to ensure you've covered all your bases.

10. Inspection

Normally, if you are considering buying a home, you have an inspector look at the structure, pipes, electrical system, etc. A commercial property requires even more of a stringent inspection, not only to meet your needs, but also the requirements of the local government.

Before purchasing commercial property, hire professionals to thoroughly examine the electrical system, including the sprinkler and security system, as well as the plumbing, phone, and Internet systems. Since you will have already done your homework on zoning and regulations, you will be aware of the building codes. With the results from your various inspections you can get an estimate of how much work, if any, will need to be invested in order to get the building "up to code."

A Good Foundation

Hire an architect or engineer to examine the foundation and structure, especially if you have frequent natural disasters such as earthquakes or hurricanes in your area of the country.

Communication

If you are looking at an older building, there may be quite an investment up front to either meet city standards or meet your own standards. Don't overlook the importance of a high-tech phone and Internet system, especially if you have a lot of employees. If there is not already a T1 or fiber optic network in place, build this cost into your purchase, as it will save you money and headaches in the long term over more traditional (and older) phone and Internet systems.

Make sure to hire an expert to tell you if the changes you need are possible and within your budget. With most commercial real estate loans, you can include these remodeling costs in your financing. Again, make sure to ask.

11. Map Out Your Plan

As a business owner, you understand the importance of carefully planning every move. Buying a property requires no less preparation. Before you begin looking for a building, sit down with your finances and figure out how much of a mortgage you can afford to take on.

Create a Budget

When calculating your budget for buying property, don't leave out taxes, insurance premiums, and repair and maintenance, as well as costs involved in customizing the space to meet your needs. Failing to create a budget for these often overlooked expenses will quickly put you in the hole with your new property. If you need help creating this budget, ask your realtor or your commercial lender for advice.

Room to Grow

To determine the amount of mortgage you can afford, assess your income and expenses. Your mortgage and property expenses should leave you enough room to operate your business without cutting into your normal expenses.

Sometimes it is necessary to take a cut in profit in order to purchase the kind of space you need to grow. Think of it this way: buying a larger space will allow your company to stretch its wings, which will result in more profits down the road. It's a risk you sometimes need to be willing to take if you want to grow. Remember, if you buy more space than your company needs immediately, you can acquire tenants who will provide rental income that can significantly offset your monthly mortgage obligation.

Planning Ahead

It's almost always a good idea to buy slightly more room than you currently need. You can lease out the additional space until you need it. If this is your plan, map out how this will bring in income to help subsidize your mortgage. Remember, however, that you may have periods when some of the space is unoccupied, so don't rely on the rent coming in to cover your mortgage every time. Make sure you can cover the mortgage on your own.

Have an Exit Strategy

So, how does it all end? Hopefully with big dollar signs. After all, that's why you're investing, isn't it? To eventually cash in on your investment. Therefore, you need to have an exit strategy.

You might choose to hold onto your commercial property through retirement, as real estate is a great asset that can provide you with a steady passive income stream: a lucrative retirement strategy.

12. Before You Sign on the Dotted Line

Having a carefully drafted contract is key in your commercial real estate deal. You are required by law to have a written sales contract, and it is to your advantage to have one with each detail of the transaction documented.

Also, make sure to leave ample time for due diligence and closing, especially if any construction is involved!

Details

Despite the stories of real estate contracts being thicker than phone books, all you really need is a contract that lays out the important elements of your agreements. First, it needs to describe the property and the purchase price, as well as whether the price is due at closing or in installments.

Equipment, etc.

The contract should include any equipment, machinery, or personal property that is included in the purchase price. It should list any contingencies that must be met prior to completing the purchase. A common example of a contingency is whether you are able to obtain a loan to finance the purchase.

Don't Forget...

The contract should cover how the property taxes and utility bills will be pro-rated between you and the seller, as well as what type of title insurance you must provide. The date for closing and delivery of possession should be in the document, as well as what legal recourse either the buyer or seller has in the event that the other party defaults on the agreement.

And Always...

Once the contract has been drafted, have a lawyer review it prior to signing it. A lawyer may be able to help you negotiate a better deal than what is originally presented.

Unfortunately, not all property sellers are honest, and some will try to hide their true purpose in technical legalese within a contract. Having a trusted lawyer and commercial realtor review your contract will keep you safe in your transaction.

13. Choose a Lender with Care

There are many types of lenders available to assist you with your commercial real estate financing. But keep in mind: not all are created equal. Do your homework in finding a lender that meets your specific needs.

It's important to find a firm that can give you broad access to capital, understand your priorities, offer you the best deal on your loan and complete the process in a timely manner.

Types of Lenders

There are three basic categories of lenders: direct lenders, indirect lenders and hybrid lenders. Direct lenders lend their own funds. Some examples of direct lenders include commercial real estate lending institutions, banks, and private lenders. Indirect lenders place funds on behalf of others, and include mortgage brokers and mortgage bankers, as well as financial intermediaries. Hybrid lenders both lend their own funds and lend on behalf of others, and include certain investment banks, investment advisors and credit companies.

Banks usually generalize in services, and offer a wide array of products. While this may sound good, think about it for a moment. Would you rather have a lender that knows a little about many financing options, or a lot about three or four products designed specifically for you?

Lending institutions are more specific in nature, and are experts in the products they offer. Banks are more traditional in their financing products, while lending institutions are more entrepreneurial and creative.

Banks often require that you move all of your financial relationships under their umbrella, including deposits, LOCs, etc., while non-bank lenders only work with your real estate loan.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is a great resource for small companies looking to expand their business or purchase real estate for commercial use. The SBA offers tools that can help you plan your next move, as well as loan programs for a variety of business purposes. The SBA itself does not offer loans, but works through banks and non-bank lenders to provide small businesses with loan programs that meet their needs.

Get Started Early

It is important to choose your lender early in the process so that you can maximize leverage and get a lower cost of funds. Your lender will ask for certain forms in order to determine your eligibility for financing, as well as to figure out what kind of deal you can negotiate.

You will need to provide your income and expense statement, balance sheet and personal financial statements from all prospective owners of the property. If you don't have them written already, you will need to create profiles of the management team, including information on education and employment background, as well as experience relevant to your business. Other documents needed include a property appraisal, contract of sale, and plans for the use of the property. Providing these documents early can help streamline the process. Again, your realtor and lender will help you through the process.

14. Know Your Financing Options

While you are in the "shopping" phase of looking for a commercial property to purchase, you should begin to research your financing options. There are many kinds of commercial financing options available, so it is important that you find the one that best suits your needs. It's also very important to know how much you're qualified to borrow. This will help you and your real estate broker find the right type of property for you faster.

No matter what type of loan you wind up getting, negotiating the loan will be based on the same basic factors: anticipated use of the property, expected returns from the property or business conducted there, geography, type and size of real estate, perceived risk to lender and market conditions. There is no one rate applicable to all commercial financing. The rate you receive will be based on your specific situation.

If interest rates are low, securing a low fixed rate will mean you pay less interest over the entire mortgage. A variable rate, which is considered by some to be more risky, can give you a lower payment for a period (before it increases), which will let you use the money saved for other investments.

In weighing your financing choices, remember that some debt is good. Don't assume you should take the loan with the highest down payment requirement so you can "pay off your debt faster". Putting down more money means you have less to invest in your business.

Term Loans

Based on how much money you need to borrow, there are different financing options available. One option is a term loan. Term loans can be used for a variety of purposes, including financing permanent working capital, new equipment, refinancing, expansion, acquisitions and, of course, buildings.

There are loans specifically designed for commercial real estate or equipment. Banks typically lend up to 80% of the value of the real estate to be financed, and the loans must be repaid in 15 to 20 years. If you are able to come up with the remaining 20% on the cost of the property (and don't have anywhere better to invest the money), this is an option to consider.

Up Up and Away

Beware of balloon payments. While paying a very low monthly amount at the start sounds great, you often end up spending additional money to refinance your commercial mortgage as lenders reset interest rates or reexamine you and your business over the life of the loan.

Credit Line

If you want a more flexible loan, you may have the option of a credit line that can provide you with cash on an as-needed basis, up to a cap amount. Credit lines almost always have a variable rate, and have interest-only payments for the first one to three years.

Equity Financing/Joint Ventures

Equity financing involves joint ventures with investors that have the capital you need. Usually, the investor will receive a percentage of your business' profit in exchange for the capital you need to purchase the building or stock in the company if it is public.

Some investors will take a back seat to your executive decisions, while others will want a say in the operation of your company. Joint ventures are not for everyone, so keep in mind all of these factors when considering one.

The SBA 7(a) Loan Program

The SBA has a variety of financing products that are ideal for small businesses. The most commonly used SBA loan is the 7(a) Loan Program. The loan is provided through banks or non-bank lending institutions.

In order to be eligible for a 7(a) loan, your business must be for profit, and you cannot purchase real estate for investment purposes. There are many other guidelines to qualify for a 7(a) loan. The maximum amount a business can borrow from a 7(a) loan is $2 million. Furthermore, all SBA 7(a) loans have prime-based floating interest rates. This type of interest rate structure can leave you vulnerable to monthly/quarterly interest rate swings that can have a significant impact on your monthly mortgage payment.

Now you can see why it is so important to find a commercial lender who can help you digest all of this information and take the time to explain your options.

15. The Best Kept Financing Secret

One of the main reasons small businesses choose to rent instead of purchase their own commercial real estate property is the perception that they can't afford the down payment. Many of them are not aware that SBA-guaranteed loans are available to qualifying applicants and can provide up to 90 percent loan to cost financing.

In fact, the 504 loan program was designed to assist small businesses in building or purchasing properties while spurring business growth in the local economy.

Only 10% Down

While in some parts of the country, use of the 504 loan program is widespread, there are other areas, such as those east of the Rocky Mountains, where this program isn't getting the attention it deserves. If you are unable to put down much of the loan cost, the 504 is worth looking at: it only requires 10% - and there are no closing costs in addition to the 10% down! (Please note that there are certain basic criteria you will need to have to qualify for the 10% down program. A good lender work with you to do his or her best to help you qualify for this benefit.)

The other 90% of the financing comes from two places: up to 50% of the total cost (land, building, renovations, and soft costs) is paid for by a senior lien from a private-sector lender, and up to 40% comes from a junior lien from a Certified Development Company (this portion is backed by a 100 percent SBA-guaranteed debenture).

Smaller Payments

Since most banks and loan programs require a minimum of 20-30% of the property cost, and do not fold in soft costs and closing fees, 504 loans are a great way to get the best of everything: by paying only 10% down, you retain more capital and are able to make smaller payments over the life of your mortgage.

Because you have two separate loans with the 504, you end up getting a blended rate that is below market. The first loan is either fixed or variable, and is at or slightly higher than conventional financing rates. The second mortgage (the 40% loan) is considerably lower than market interest rates, and is fixed for the life of the loan. Having a lower interest rate lets your company retain more capital.

504 loans can close in 30 days or less, saving you time, and helping you get into your new property sooner. Another advantage is that there are usually fewer "hoops" to jump through to get approved, as long as you are dealing with a lender who specializes in this type of loan as opposed to one who might process one or two a year. The specialist knows this loan inside and out and can streamline the process, as well as make sure you are receiving all the benefits.

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Teppichreinigung Vans - Suchtipps für die Suche nach billigen Van Versicherung

Each carpet cleaning business trying to minimize their costs and search for cheap van insurance is a way to make that happen. These include cost-reducing both small and large carpet cleaners directly impact profitability. Cheap insurance means but not inadequate insurance. Budget van insurance or cheaper van insurance may be one better way to describe this goal. You want your company not underinsured but that no more than you need is to have the coverage you need to pay.

The best way to search for a better insurance quote is on the Internet. While the Internet offers a wealth of information, his attempt, by which it can sometimes discouraging all the chaff, which for real information, that you for seven search. In this article is a few tips, like you might not with online resources go on a search for those offer.

The most important part of any search is the keyword or keyword phrase entered level number to start the search (we will assume that with Google, but the process for Bing, Yahoo, or any other search engine is identical). The keyword or keyword phrase tells what you are looking for so that it can return search results, which are relevant to your topic Google. With the right words or phrase sites can prevent, which can be linked to but not exactly what you are looking for.

As an example a search for, until you see results 'cheap van insurance' sounds like a logical expression. Web pages using this phrase returned sites are mostly consumers targeted looking after personal online van insurance. Gather certain generic information and quotes from multiple companies provide for comparison. These pages are not useful for searching for van insurance for your business. Companies need an enterprise, the commercial insurance focuses on the different requirements than personal insurance has.

The idea is to describe your search phrase about what exactly you're looking to narrow. Using gives you better results than we get now several companies, the commercial insurance companies provide the search term "commercial insurance". However, we are not specific enough, as many of the search results are companies that offer health insurance, commercial insurance, transport insurance, employees. We are looking for companies that specialize in commercial fleet insurance for our carpet cleaning vans!

A better search phrase would "commercial van insurance" or "commercial vehicle insurance" be. These keyword phrases are specific narrow enough for the results and minimize to the time required for the research by returning only those sites which can potentially meet our needs.

The Internet is a great tool to search for information, but its sheer size means that you in going to put some thoughts as you on the search. Sometimes, it's easy to say, if your search terms are not specific enough. To include all major insurance companies as you know, get the results you refine your search. Other times, that site name may sound good but closer investigation shows they are independent, superficial or just plain useless. Fast and efficient search is a skill that can be ground with a little practice.

Of course, if you prefer it, not to spend your time doing, this type of work you can delegate it to a good insurance broker or independent agent. After all, is the target run your business and not your business can be run!

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Commercial legal expenses - employment tribunal cover

Industrial property office was traditionally a separate, stand-alone, policy sold as. There is a handful of insurers in the United Kingdom which offer this cover the most important one being the.

To obtain cover, you need the usual information to your business, location, activities, to declare Wageroll and sales. On the basis of this information is then purchase a policy. You will need the cover itself hardly a legal protection. So, your business insurance broker will offer you this usually in conjunction with a standard commercial insurance.

But now insurers are politics, more and more this cover as part of their standard package including, whether this is a pub, shop, restaurant, Office or hotel. The actual cover is the insurer tailored legal expenses, but it will be for the commercial insurers sell branded the package. The claim you must the legal expenses insurer direct talk.

The type of coverage that is provided should Tribunal include as a minimum, employment cover and tax investigations.

Labour courts, while you may think that this does not happen to you, are on the rise. Year after year, the number of the tribunals to be recorded. As an employer, you have to your employees for injuries, diseases or disease a duty of care. This is liability insurance (obligatory) Act by the employer in 1969, which handle numerous revisions. You need cover in force, at a minimum limit of compensation of ?5, 000, 000.

Employers liability insurance covers but no labour courts. They have a duty of care not only your employees for injuries, and so on, you must also ensure that they are subject to not harassment, discrimination or discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation. You are also obliged to follow the correct, current process, any dismissal or redundancy.

How will it all insurance policies and cover, certain notions, cover conditions, excesses and guarantees, which you for match must be effective and in force. All too often we see insurance claims filed by business customers, after the event. Each individual insurance have within certain time limits tell claims insurers "Potential" somewhere in the formulation, a requirement for you. The whole point about this is that insurers years and years have experience in dealing with claims. While we sometimes can feel in the world of broking, that they are slow, they know what to do and how claims keep costs as low as possible.

For employment tribunal claims, insurers have a panel of solicitors, United Kingdom and a fixed fee scale agreement have. What this means is that she have a used these solicitors, in full knowledge of that costs less than you with your own, local solicitor.

Not what you are trying do, think that you can treat a Tribunal claim itself. If a relationship has been so badly with a staff that they Tribunal have launched a claim by a court, you want to able to resolve this directly with the employees. You could issues far worse by corresponding with the employees, which passes then this information to a lawyer, who in turn knows exactly how to play the game of "Tribunal". This could be at the end cost you much money.

What you should do is text check your current policy to very carefully. If you have cover, then check what level of court costs have you. You have not the cover, then is our advice to you to ensure that you get as soon as possible in place. How good is your relationship with your employees, you need to, unfortunately, always a worst case scenario consider. In this worst case, an employee to a Tribunal could go, whether you think their claim is valid. Your policy covers the costs of legal defence and potentially the cost for each location to your current or ex-employees.

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Restaurant insurance - current market for commercial insurance favors restaurant owners

The insurance industry enjoyed record profits of $60 billion less than two years ago. Numbercollection in the wake of these returns, the commercial insurance market which flooded with hundreds of millions of dollars worth of capital. This created to increase in the amount of carriers, as well on risk as a greater capacity to take. Ultimately, the influx of capital into the insurance market has resulted in an insurance environment that is extremely soft, with prices falling quickly. For restaurant owners who approach this soft commercial insurance market correctly, some of the largest premium decreases in years are available.

To understand why attractive premiums are such out there, understand a couple points:

First, insurance pricing is cyclical. The inflated prices simply cannot be maintained in the new commercial insurance environment of 2008. A major reason for this is that most commercial insurance companies are public companies. Thus, their shareholders demand growth. In order to grow, prices must be reduced to entice new clients and retain current ones. In addition, insurance carriers must new areas enter that they have no been active in historically. These carriers are then forced to write new lines of the coverage for industry segments like foodservice, hospitality, and team programs.

The second point to understanding the reason for the availability of lower premiums is that in the world of commercial insurance foodservice and hospitality is a niche area. Consequently, there is a limited amount of insurance carriers competing against one another to write a restaurant insurance account when the market is stable or hard. Now consider the reality of 2007 and 2008. you may have found that the number of carriers seeking your business doubled. The impact of this insurance market on niche industry segments like foodservice and hospitality can be exponentially greater than what is happening in the standard insurance market. This large supply increase as demand stays static leads to the falling prices that restaurant owners are now finding.

Last why is it that buyers are usually the people to realize the state of the commercial insurance market? Most policies only get renewed one time each year. The can lead to an information gap because the reality is that buyers rely on their brokers to let them know this critical information about the direction in which the market is headed. With markets shifting course substantially, and quickly, insurance buyers sometimes are not made cognizant of the shift until nearly a year later.

Ford, Moreton, select industry groups, brokerage houses, and insurance carriers themselves usually are the ones formulating reports about the insurance industry. Oftentimes, these reports can was six months behind. Rarely do they portray a precise picture of the current environment in the market. However, consumer expectations are driven by these reports. Many large companies who settled for a 10% reduction in pricing will find out later than they could have gotten reductions of 25-30% instead.

There is no doubt that this inefficiency is the Achilles' light of the commercial insurance industry, especially at a time when the industry seems to be cannibalizing itself. For foodservice and hospitality companies it is so a situation that should be taken advantage of, especially in light of the fact that it will eventually swing the other way.

While we are currently in a buyer's market, do not allow yourself to become careless when it comes to risk management. You can keep your insurance expenses at levels 25-40% lower than your competition by paying close attention to details and working with an expert. Controlling the basic elements of your risk will allow you to enjoy the benefits available in the market regardless of what cycle it is in.

Here are three additional questions you should be asking that your broker might not be answering adequately, or at all:

(1) What is my renewal strategy? Keep in mind that you want to work in the commercial insurance cycle, not the other way around. In soft markets, it is sensitive to a cancel current policy in an effort to capitalise of on lower rates. However, when the market hardens, you may want to negotiate 18-month or multiyear rate terms. You have the potential to reduce your restaurant insurance costs by 20-40% over a five-year period simply by paying close attention to insurance to cycles and acting appropriately.

(2) Overinsured am I? You have little to no chance of losing every building you insure single event one in any. However, some people continue to purchase coverage for that very unlikely occurrence. If you buildings have ten $1 million in a state, you do not need a $10 million insurance policy. This is wasted coverage and can be extraordinarily costly, especially in a hard market. Your broker should run a probable maximum loss to determine what the appropriate loss limit should be. Depending what your locations are, you realize that you only need between a $ 2-$ 3 million policy to cover the $10 million in buildings.

(3) How can I effectively manage my loss history? A good broker will assist you in this endeavor, but that your insurance losses most do not even mention it understand stick with you for five years, regardless of whether you have two locations or 1,000 locations. Commercial insurance companies use these past losses to help them predict what your future losses may be. This can have a tremendous effect on your insurance prices. If you are like most companies, you have limited knowledge of the details behind the insurance companies' loss runs. In essence, you are still being charged for a claim that occurred three or four years prior. Have them audited to be sure that details and numbers are accurate.

One point that cannot be overstressed is the importance of choosing the right broker to partner with. Unfortunately, most brokers simply do not handle enough restaurant insurance claims to maintain up to date knowledge on the insurance market for the industry. Obviously, the firm you partner with must understand your business, but you need to so be confident that they so are competent in understanding the environment and knowing the markets.

Keep in mind that these people are your representatives. You should choose them as meticulously as you would choose your legal representation. Try not to be a firm's lone client, but also make sure that you are not a "small fish in a big pond." A great broker will keep you ahead of your competition, keep you safe, and ultimately add to your bottom line.

You should therefore make every effort to meet your insurance carriers. Have a relationship with them, in addition to your broker. The carriers need to know you and understand what expectations you have. Not to mention, being on a first name basis will be a big help if you ever need a favor; inevitably you will at some point.

Finally, make sure you are maintaining open dialogue with both consultants and internal employees regarding customer-and-employee injury issues. You have to be tough on claims; but remember that communicating proactively and empathetically listening can turn into loyal cut finger and strained backs employees and lifetime customers.

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Die Bedeutung der kommerziellen Versicherung In Ihrem Leben

If a person has a commercial property, you must try to secure the commercial insurance protects the investment. Commercial property often has a different structure, together with various groups of insurance requirements for residential real estate. Care to ensure that the property is completely hidden, required someone protect the unique attributes of properties. In short, aims to defend that ensures tenants from industry when a property get.

The hauptsächlichhauptmerkmale which directive must cover are cover property damage, glass and equipment coverage, public liability insurance and buildings. If have a public liability insurance it provides with the security that a public member of the property must be violated. If you have secure insurance then a person from the financial loss in the case can remain protected someone gets hurt such as an accident. However, covers were property liability may something leads directly to the property damage. This alternative be retained those finances.

Commercial buildings are costly glass facades, commercial faucets and fittings and electrical equipment. This is one of the methods for the protection of commercial insurance. If at one insurance covers the failure of equipment, gets a person protection from a major financial burden. Its failure can it expensive AC system or possible breakage of the glass.

Obtaining a reasonable commercial insurance, to defend the assets could stop financial losses one of several. It can have however very difficult to determine, appropriate insurance to cover. An insurance specialist may be a fine option when you want to cover all insurance options in an insurance company.

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Commercial vehicle quotes

Transport plays an important role in our daily lives. , Healthy transport really your business into a leading position helps you bring speaking all business venture. Exports and imports of commercial vehicles are in full pace these days and as a result of the recent boom in the commercial sector to the commercial depression which affected the economy in the world strengthens various companies in the area of financing of commercial vehicles, because money see it as a potential market for their investments.

Commercial vehicles are generally categorized in two ways.

1. Light-duty vehicles
2. Heavy goods vehicles

Small businesses generally requires vans (light commercial vehicles), and they are quite popular these days. You can van insurance quotes of different companies receive and can decide that you need and what will be best for you. Usually takes into account a van insurance company, that the following things to consider before he you insurance quotes van

1. Manufacturer of the van
2. Model of transporter
3. Year of production
4. Engine size and type of transporter

In addition to all these great things that some small things is also prompts you, before you van insurance quotes - number of seats in the van, date of purchase, fuel used, approximate value of van, security measures in the van (alarm system installiertWegfahrsperre, tracking device, etc.), any change in the van, etc. carried out. So, it is recommended that van insurance to you this information with you ready in hand, must so that you be embarrassing not to the insurance of guys. Typically, you can get insurance quotes from two sources - directly from an insurance company or a broker.Still should be some good idea about the policies and have all of the insurance before you sign up for insurance.

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Special insurance needs - companies needing industrial or manufacturing insurance

For those who need valuable protection of business investment, no difference in protective covers are like, because 99% of the companies in the United Kingdom are small businesses that need proper protection. Those produced or distributed products to offer, think they understand the needs of their business insurance, but they could not understand the complexity of this issue. While they provide UK general public liability and the employer's liability in these circumstances are required, you can not prepare for the problems that arise from the risky exposures, you see every day.

As a manufacturer, you must consider a number of factors that could go wrong it during the manufacturing process with your products. Nuisance liabilities, such as machines that make too much noise or cause can be too much interruption rather than ordinary small companies might need to calculate. While thinking about the problems on your own business could be enough, you must consider your distributors, suppliers, and large customers, which could be unbearable suffering losses, the attributed can be to your business or the product, which can make it.

If the thought of this fact to alerting you, it is important that you understand the complexity of insurance products, to the protection are available. In fact, there are certain policy conditions, you need to understand. Is about business interruption insurance policies, you may be required to estimate your losses, but you must take into account the consequences of this problem. For example, you might have set minimum supplier or distributors who experienced a significant loss of income and it could be attributed directly to your specific process or negligence.

Another important factor to take into account, for in the manufacturing or industrial enterprises, product happened liability complaints daily. If so, could this mean the end of your product sales, the beginning of a relationship with a good lawyer and the failure of your business. Have can avert the right commercial insurance, you can find some of the most negative parts with sufficient insurance cover, regardless of the reasons you. Can it equipment breakdowns, shortages, and other factors, you may need to follow when you make industrial or manufactured goods to other available.

The end result of this history on commercial insurance is that you adequately protected regardless. It means, you have to consider the worst case scenario, and protect your business assets, the best way, you know, like you. It is possible that a defective product can impact your business not it is possible that can damage a reputation for defective products of your company and the prospects for all distributors under you in the food chain. For this reason, it is important, known issues, early in the game to solve.

Could mean the conditions of the UK insurance industry attitude has been swallowed your town by a city city brokerage, but you can may through the murky waters of appropriate insurance for small businesses without having to navigate a scratch. If you are aware of the proper etiquette, you may find that you are prepared for almost any kind of misfortune.

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A commercial insurance quote for your business

A commercial insurance quote is easy, that estimated costs for a business insurance policy based on the information by an applicant in this case your Office to an insurance company delivered. The procedure is, that broker, an insurance company insurance quotes you will the owner so that he use an insurance policy can expose the conditions and the cost of their companies. In most cases, the estimated insurance quote directly proportional to the level of risk is involved.

The primary variable that every business owner needs to be considered is what types of coverage you will have on the field. There are many forms of insurance, the customizable and fit your unique circumstances will permit. Renters policies provide coverage for equipment and liability expositions of rented basis, while decision-makers policies, which could focus for people, even the House or property, the in operates. Although the two directives significantly in the premium plan, each tailored to your own case specific problem is.

Policy is recommended to provide liability ceiling, if there is a insurance broke claim that can leave you. You and your broker can only arguably determine the types of insurance policy cover you want.

Before picking an ad insurance quote analyze, before everything solves exactly which items your insurance premiums and on the brokerage be company many people to go for help and advice.

Can purchase multiple insurance quotes because this can ensure that you get a great selection of the current insurance market. Take in the primary offering that you received and expect that the lowest or most appropriate available. A certain amount of companies offering superior insurance cover, but unfortunately costs will provide much more, while other companies never almost as good, which excess of insurance coverage not to mention, the premium usually less is expensive.

If you find available for purchase for a commercial insurance quote, view reference with a broker agent, the experts are commercial insurance. Insurance brokers are companies a smart asset for business people, how they access your information may be too many insurance to you the best bonuses in the widest coverage can be booked. Although they require the mediation service broker fee have built relationships with several insurance companies and are generally the most appropriate company which are deliberately set. Agents provide also advice on insurance policy coverage that you need and insured the limits. If you are not really familiar with commercial insurance, it comes to strongly recommend that you get advice from an expert.

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Insurance trade marketing - price objections to overcome five strategic steps

Despite millions of dollars spent in insurance company advertising, many business owners still base their insurance buying decisions price. 
 
Why do business insurance buyers focus so much on the price?  Because...
 
It's a business purchase decision, which means there's very little emotional involvement and someone else (i.e. the boss) will verify that a good choice was made. Even if the purchaser would like to make an emotional decision, he can't.  It's a complicated, confusing purchase and most buyers don't want to appear ignorant, so they focus on the one thing they know. Price is comfortable because it's the currency for all other transactions. Value-added insurance is hard to envision if it hasn't been experienced in the past. Your buyer thinks of insurance as his last claims experience - period. The value gained by investing in a better insurance program is difficult for buyers to measure. Business purchasers are time starved. They won't take the time to educate themselves to understand insurance options if they don't expect the gain in benefit to exceed the burden and time lost to learning.
Ready to overcome these barriers? Here's how:
 
1. Evaluate your policyholders' needs so you can build an offer that hits their hot buttons.  

In the words of James H. Gilmore, author of The Experience Economy, "A company's goal should be to learn more about what each customer needs so that it can close the customer sacrifice gap, which is the difference between what individual customers settle for and what each wants exactly".
 
If you take the time to learn your customer's pain points and hot buttons, then you will know how to structure your offering so that it is worth more to your purchaser. You may find that some items with high perceived customer value, have low delivery costs. You won't know without research. Customer research isn't cheap, but it's a necessary element of long-term profitability. You'll want a survey to identify general perceptions and focus groups to dig in to key issues. Segment your policyholders as narrowly as possible for developing your research and your offering. It's easier to tailor value-added offerings for smaller segments with homogeneous needs.
 
Use your research to determine how to communicate your offering so that it's easy for the purchaser to measure the monetary worth of the value gained by working with you. Industry specific examples, case studies and testimonials are essential for helping insurance purchasers envision something they've never experienced.
 
2. Create a unique value proposition (UVP) that is client-focused and differentiating. 

A while back, Progressive Auto Insurance did something unheard of in the insurance industry. It provided its customers with price quotes from the competition. Then, it counseled customers to go with the company that could save them the most money - even if it meant not choosing Progressive. Why did they do it? Because it was unique, it generated attention, and it cultivated an amazing amount of customer loyalty. This is an example of differentiation in action.  What can you do to surprise and delight your customers?
 
3. Pave the way for sales with brand awareness.
In Brand Leadership, authors David Aaker and Erich Joachlmsthaler discuss a causal relationship between brand and stock return. They cite Equitrends brand power research, which found that firms experiencing largest gains in brand equity saw their stock return average 30 percent. The authors suggest that the brand equity / stock return relationship might stem from brand equity's tendency to support a price premium, which contributes to profitability. They state, "When a high level of perceived quality has been created, raising the prices not only provides margin dollars but also aids perceptions."
 
Create a high level of perceived quality through consistent marketing and communication programs. One specialty carrier was able to decrease its marketing budget by 35 percent while at the same time tripling its revenues and boosting brand awareness within its target market. This company started by calculating the cost per exposure and cost per lead for each of its marketing activities. Here's what the company learned:
Tradeshows and golf sponsorships had extremely high cost per exposure and cost per lead. Advertising had low cost per exposure, but high cost per lead (it was hard to identify that any leads were generated) Direct mail had moderate cost per exposure and the lowest cost per lead - plus prospects and marketing activities could easily be tracked throughout the sales cycle. Published articles had lower cost per exposure than advertising and high cost per lead (again it was hard to track leads)
The company drastically revised it marketing approach attending four tradeshows per year instead of 28, sponsoring five golf tournaments each year, instead of 22, eliminating the bulk of its advertising, and allocating the majority of its marketing budget to direct mail and published articles. 
 
This company used a 'pull' marketing approach, marketing directly to the policyholder prospect. Because the company operates with a limited number of agencies, it was able to co-brand many of the marketing efforts with its appointed agencies, so everyone benefited.
 
Sending direct mail to policyholders may not work with your business model. Nevertheless, you can take a combined approach - 'pulling' policyholders through published articles in their industry trade journals, and 'pushing' brand through a direct mail campaign with appointed agents. The key is to eliminate activities with high cost per exposure and high cost per lead, and replace them with activities that generate strong return-on-investment. Expenses are controlled, but a perception of quality is established making it easier to command a higher price.
 
4. Groom your internal culture to deliver your marketing promise.
 
The mantra at Disney is, "Marketing creates the brand but training brings it to life and keeps it refreshed from customers and employees alike." If you've experienced Disneyland, you've seen the mantra in action. Disney delivers its marketing promise! If you're not already aligning your hiring, training, policies and procedures with your marketing promises, you need to start now - your retention rates depend upon it. Consider these statistics from Frederick Reichheld in The Loyalty Effect:
It costs five times as much to acquire a new customer as to retain one Most companies lose 20-25 percent of customers each year If attrition is cut five percentage points, a company can add 25-75 percent in profits to it bottom line.
Imagine...Fred Smith's insurance company promises excellent service, but when he phones with a coverage question, he's placed on hold for five minutes. Frustrated, he tries the use the Web site. When he submits the question form, it errors out. He can't tell if it went through.   Could this be your company?
 
Too often, the gap between the marketing promise and the actual customer experience is huge! While a small glitch on the website and an extended hold time may seem like small infractions, they're monumental if you are a policyholder with an alternate expectation.If you sell cut-rate product, then cut-rate service is expected. Think Costco - no one minds the lines there.   But, if you sell quality, every moment of the customer experience must be quality, or you'll lose the customer at renewal. 
 
5. Strategically focus your retention efforts to optimize pricing.
 
Enlist your actuary or financial analyst to identify and profile the revenue and cost to service for each of your customer segments. You can look at a number of segment types: by size, by industry, by agency, by policy type, etc. 
Plot your customer segments onto the following grid, to determine how much time and money should be spent to retain each segment:
 
High Revenue/Low Cost to Service
Allocate biggest $ for retention Develop agency incentives Refine service to better meet needs Build relationship
High Revenue/High Cost to Service
Execute low cost retention activities Find ways to reduce cost to service
Low Revenue/Low Cost to Service
Find ways to increase revenues -  i.e. up-sell or cross-sell Execute low costs retention activities
Low Revenue/High Cost to Service
Increase pricing or decrease cost to service Consider ending the relationship
According to the Direct Marketing Association, retention rates tend to stabilize after the second purchase. The first purchase is a test. A two-time buyer is buying with full knowledge. This means that a two-time buyer (or someone who has renewed a policy once) is the best target for retention, cross-sell and up-sell efforts.
 
In their McKinsey Quarterly article, Race to the Bottom, Andreas Florissen, Thomas Vahlenkamp, Boris Maurer and Bernhard Schmidt caution companies to carefully consider the 'willingness to fly into a competitor's arms' factor when looking a customer value, retention spending and price optimization. They say, "If a customer is the kind that switches easily, retention efforts are better directed at others, since the likelihood of success is small. Managers must understand that it is better to lose fickle customers than to keep them at unrealistically low prices - an approach that cuts margins earned from all customers, even those that are less price sensitive.
 
In closing, there are several ways to change a price:
 
1. Change the price tag (the obvious)
2. Change the quantity (deductibles, limits)
3. Change the quality (coverage, service level)
4. Change the terms (service levels, payment terms, policy length)
 
The key is to be creative and strategic. Frame your price and provide your agents the tools they need to sell it. Make sure every value-added service is itemized with a monetary value. For example, if three accident prevention consultations come with the policy, assign a value for those. Make it easy for the buyer to rationalize a higher premium. Discuss short term vs. long term, and the importance of investing in an insurance partner that will improve experience ratios over time. Point out coverage that is different than the competitors so it's clear that an apple-to-apple comparison cannot be made. Finally, remember to include testimonials, case studies and success stories in the sales presentation, so your prospect can visualize the benefits of you as his partner.
 
The buyers who are throwing up price objections are also spending $3 on their lattes and $300 on their sunglasses. You see - price isn't really an objection - it's a convenient excuse when desire and understanding are lacking.

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Workers ' compensation insurance - what employers should know

All U.S. employers, with very limited exceptions, are required to purchase Workers' Compensation insurance. This state-regulated insurance provides state mandated medical and lost wage benefits to employees injured during the course and scope of their employment.?? Exceptions to purchasing this mandatory insurance include very small companies that do not meet the number of employees requirement, or in some cases, very large companies that prefer to self-insure this risk. An employer's failure to comply with a state's requirements will trigger economic penalties and possible criminal prosecution.? A variety of Workers' Compensation insurance programs are available from the employer's risk finance perspective.

Exclusive Remedy & Employers' Liability

Although each state's regulations differ, they all share a common purpose. They provide an "exclusive remedy" in the form of a "no-fault" program for compensating employees in the form of medical benefits and lost wages in connection with injuries that arise in the course and scope of their employment. While Workers' Compensation insurance responds to the "no-fault" consequences of workplace injury, Employers' Liability insurance, which is typically joined with Workers' Compensation policies, provides coverage for common law claims against the employer by the employee, their family or third-parties, if the claimant or plaintiff can meet the legal standard in their jurisdiction for establishing that the injury was caused by the employer's negligence, gross negligence, recklessness or willful conduct.

The Broad Landscape of Special Funds and State Programs

Many states provide special funds to pay workers' compensation benefits to injured workers employed by companies that failed to purchase insurance. Assigned risk pools or insurers of last resort are also available for employers that commercial insurers consider too risky.

Monopolistic States

There are currently four monopolistic states: Ohio, North Dakota, Washington and Wyoming. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands also operate under a monopolistic structure. These states legislated requirements that Workers' Compensation insurance be provided exclusively by the state's compulsory program. Commercial insurers may not offer Workers' Compensation insurance in those four states, yet at least two of the states do allow limited opportunity for self-insurance for well-capitalized employers.

Competitive State Funds

In contrast to monopolistic state programs, Competitive State Funds are state-owned and operated insurance facilities that compete in the open market with commercial insurers to underwrite Workers' Compensation insurance solely within their respective state.

Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia operate Competitive State Fund programs.

Second or Subsequent Injury Funds

In most states it's illegal for an employer to refuse to hire a prospective employee or terminate an employee if they have previously filed a workers' compensation claim.? To reduce the possibility of this form of discrimination, some states established a Second Injury or Subsequent Injury Fund. The purpose of these funds is to limit an employer's (and their Workers' Compensation insurer's) exposure by reimbursing or covering the Workers' Compensation benefits paid because of an aggravation or recurrence of a previously existing injury. Reimbursement eligibility requires that the injury must result from a qualifying permanent partial pre-existing disability, illness or congenital medical condition that may hinder person from obtaining employment.

Insurance Premium Calculation - The Loss Experience Mod Factor

This is a complex and often misunderstood concept that has a major effect upon a company's Workers' Compensation insurance premiums. On a general level, it is essentially a comparative analysis of your company's Workers' Compensation loss history for the prior three years against companies within the same or similar industries.

The standard Experience Mod, which is explained below, is calculated by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). Employees are classified by standard identification codes depending upon their occupation. Depending upon an employer's size and diversity of operations, many classification codes may be involved in the analysis.

Simply stated, the neutral point in the rating curve is 1.0. If a company's Experience Modification Factor ("Mod") is greater than 1.0, the employer is issued a "Debit Mod" meaning the premium will be increased by a certain mathematical factor. Alternatively, if the loss history is better than expected or lower than 1.0, the employer receives a "Credit Mod" factor that will decrease the Workers' Compensation premium.

A Premium Calculation Illustration ?Using a simple example, suppose the employer only has one classification code for all employees, all of whom work in the same state, and the Workers' Compensation expected loss rate or base premium rate (as established by the state in which the company's employees are located) is $3 for every $100 of payroll.

If the employer has a Mod factor of 0.70, the premium will be calculated as 0.70 x $3 = $2.10. This means the employer is paying $2.10 per $100 of payroll, while its competitor peer group, on average, is paying $3 per $100 of payroll.

Assume the annual payroll for this employer is $2 million, the result is the employer would pay $42,000 in premium versus its competitors with a Mod of 1.0 paying $60,000 for the same coverage. Conversely, if the employer in this example had a Mod of 1.5, the premium would be 1.5 x $3= $4.5 per $100 of payroll. Using the same $2 million annual payroll, the employer in this case would pay $90,000 in annual premium while competitors with a 1.0 Mod would be paying $30,000 less for the same coverage. It's easy to appreciate how these Credit or Debit Mods will have a significant impact upon a company's bottom line, particularly as annual payrolls reach significant levels.

Many factors go into the actual calculation of a Mod including the company's loss frequency (number of losses), loss severity (the cost of the losses), and an estimate of losses that are characterized as Incurred But Not Reported (IBNR), meaning expected losses that have not yet materialized into actual workers' compensation claims.

Medical-Only vs. Lost-Time Claims

When calculating an experience Mod, Medical-Only claim reserves are generally factored at about 30% of ultimate value. Lost Time or Indemnity claims are treated very differently. The literature on calculating experience modification factors states that the first $5,000 of a Lost Time claim ultimate reserve is factored in at 100% with discounts applying above $5,000, including a catastrophic claim cap limit. Therefore, the frequency of Lost Time claims is a real driver of adverse experience. If a company has one Lost Time claim valued at $50,000, it will have less of an adverse affect upon the Mod factor than twenty Lost Time claims valued at $2,500 per claim.

The difference between how these two types of claims affect the Mod should be a strong incentive for employers to implement modified duty programs, with particular attention given to getting employees back to work during the mandatory benefit waiting period, whenever possible. This will cause the claim to be reclassified to "Medical Only" thereby reducing the multi-year adverse impact upon the company's Workers' Compensation insurance premiums.

Claim reserve management is critically important as having over-reserved claims will exponentially affect your Mod factor and correspondingly increase your premium. Having under-reserved claims is also no benefit, as the insurer's audit may result in an unexpected assessment and, of course, increased premiums going forward. Periodic reserve evaluation by a qualified professional should ensure that over-reserved cases are negotiated downward to a reasonable level and under-reserved cases are reserved properly.

Loss Prevention

Loss Prevention is the best way to keep insurance premiums in check. The process can take many forms but essentially involves identifying potential areas of work injury risk and applying techniques to eliminate or substantially reduce the risk that an injury will occur.

Identification of potential causes of risk through performance of a workplace risk assessment is the first step. This process includes critical analysis of procedures as well as physical inspection of facilities and work environments, and discussions with operational personnel and key managers.

Once the causes of potential loss have been identified, modifications can be implemented to operational and business practices in order to reduce the associated risks. The assessment process should be performed by qualified consultants, combining qualitative elements and quantitative metrics including specifications of the physical requirements of each function and the associated loss costs.

Findings should be reviewed with key stakeholders. After agreed upon modifications to operational programs and/or safety programs have been implemented, it's important to monitor results and make adjustments to the preventive measures. Periodic re-testing is important to ensure optimal results are consistently achieved as the company develops. This process has unique relevance in an acquisition scenario.

Loss Control

Loss Control is the process of reducing or mitigating the effect of losses once they occur. Similar to loss prevention safety programs, loss control should encompass well-formulated procedures to respond to various loss situations. The most common examples of loss control are obtaining immediate medical attention for injured workers and having a limited duty return to work program. Employers should conduct a post-loss analysis of the factors that precipitated the loss to determine whether modifications to the loss prevention plan are appropriate. Any post-loss control program should include a process for coordinating medical care to ensure that appropriate medical treatment is received timely so as not to exacerbate a condition while managing medical costs to avoid any unnecessary expenses. Additionally, developing a close working relationship with insurers to deal with potentially fraudulent claims, and implementing an early return to work or modified return to work program all factor into keeping losses at their lowest possible level.

OSHA Focuses On Ergonomics

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration ("OSHA") publishes a variety of guidelines on the topic of workplace ergonomics for various industries and jobs. OSHA has announced plans to heighten its enforcement of ergonomics under the General Duty Clause which requires employers to "...keep their workplaces free from recognized serious hazards, including ergonomic hazards."

OSHA Enforcement has stated:

Even if there are no guidelines specific to your industry, as an employer you still have an obligation under the General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1) to keep your workplace free from recognized serious hazards, including ergonomic hazards. OSHA will cite employers for ergonomic hazards under the General Duty Clause or issue ergonomic hazard letters where appropriate as part of its overall enforcement program. OSHA encourages employers, where necessary, to implement effective programs or other measures to reduce ergonomic hazards and associated musculo-skeletal disorders ("MSDs"). A great deal of information is currently available from OSHA, NIOSH, and various industry and labor organizations on how to establish an effective ergonomics program, and OSHA urges employers to avail themselves of these resources.

Workers' Compensation costs have a direct bottom line effect upon all enterprises. Managing those costs to the optimally lowest level requires operational risk assessment, planning, education, an effective return to work program, continual evaluation and active management of loss reserves and third party claims administrators. Experienced insurance professionals are an employer's best resource for minimizing the adverse effects of work-related injuries upon profitability.

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Commercial insurance - what is the use?

Every business owner needs a kind or other commercial insurance. It is classified as one of the most important purchases for each potential business. Commercial insurance protects the business and its has owners against a variety of events such as theft, damage to property and claims. Any company without commercial insurance is asking for trouble.

The most common types of commercial insurance are property, liability and compensation worker.

Property insurance is there to cover the cost of repair of damage to the physical property of the business unit such as buildings. It can also cover things like machines (for accidental failures of machines), remove dirt (your property should be taken by force majeure, to clean up leaves a huge chaos), contractor risk (for the case of damage caused, while construction takes place), Is glass (all Windows etc.), inland marine for (property in transit) or other people and property, the memory on your country, interruptions of business (for the restoration of lost income and expenditure during business not resume can) Ordinance (if you rip from a building), which is not compatible and then recreate it), tenant (covers damage to improvements that have been caused by employees), crime (for criminal activities, of course) and fidelity bonds (losses due to theft of a bonded employees) insurance.

You or your company is to cause injury to any third party, need you liability insurance to cover the expenditure placed on you by a lawsuit. This commercial insurance contains errors and omissions (accidental errors that cause injury), misconduct (damage caused by a professional fails to comply with the professional standard of conduct), car (used for all cars of business) and directors or officers (for claims against the company) insurance.

Have all employees in the above all, if the business has a high risk of injury of its employees, the it is day to day running of business building, a good idea to complete worker compensation. This type of commercial insurance covers the costs through an employee injured by a work related incident. It can also protect you from a lawsuit by employees said because they will receive compensation for their injuries.

If a business owner looking to start a new business, the first thing they should do is create the business plan and scouting property to commercial insurance. There is no telling how fast you need it. They must also bear in mind that a new business is a high risk for insurance companies and so they a higher premium than a similar company, which received many years in operation. This means that they should be their policy annually check and try it you work as low as possible. Everyone is good business the most profit, they can finally and unnecessarily high commercial insurance premiums in profits in a big way cut, but then, so do complaints.

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Landlord insurance - so find out the best prices

If you the owner of the room are commercial or residential, you need to take measures, ensure its security and reduce your monetary liability if something happens to it. You can easily to landlords and commercial property insurance provided by a number of private and public companies. All you have to do is your needs identify and then to an insurance company, the limit with this service. A number of issues such as theft, not payments of rent, damage by fire, floods, other natural disasters, tenants and even terrorism is covered by these guidelines. If a directive does not cover all your needs choose a combination of policies that will give you maximum coverage.

What is a landlord?

The landlord insurance protects the owner of a property from any financial liability as a result of damage due to fire, explosion, flood, lightning, earthquake, theft, storm and malicious damage. The elements of a policy covered by differ from one company after another. Accidental damage, insurance, insurance, terrorism, content rent guarantee insurance and legal protection are some of the other problems that insurance may be covered by a landlord. Anyone who has a home or other commercial places in their possession under policy action commercial real estate to insurance to protect it from damage caused by the lessee or other external factors.

How to select the best landlords insurance provider

Your choice of the insurance provider may be based on the prices that they give. Consider at least 5 different insurance companies, before to narrow that meets your needs you to the bottom. Even if the prices are not the best, can provide you with a particular undertaking because of the excellent service you or your experience with them to go. The Internet is a good place to start your research on the various insurance companies and the policies that they provide to commercial property insurance. You can also use with your family and friends who have taken these corporate insurance contracts in the past.

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