Q: How long have you been in the insurance business?
A: Two years.

Q: What types of insurance do you sell?
A: Health, Life, and P&C.

Q: What is one of the secrets to your agency's success?
A: Getting that word out is what is important for me. People are shopping. We have a good company and product. Once you put everything together and quote as much as possible, you've got a greater chance for success.

Q: Why do you use online leads?
A: They're extremely cost effective. Our company is new and we don't have a lot of name recognition yet. We could spend a lot of money on advertising, and we are given some co–op money to do that. But I won't spend any of my own money on it because I don't see a clear return. It cost me $9 per NetQuote lead and I do know that I will get a percentage of that back. I know I'm getting some sales that can lead to other things down the road, including referrals. For me it's just good business.

Q: What is your #1 tip for managing online leads?
A: Keep all your leads organized and maintain consistent contact with those potential customers. I try to touch the leads all the time, and it's not easy to do because they're busy and working. Keeping notes is a way to track my progress and I try to improve on that.

Q: What is your #1 tip for growing your business?
A: Work every day and quote as much as possible. It's important to have consistent following up with people. I particularly like to work weekends because people are home. Take a few hours on a Saturday morning while you're on your way to a ballgame or running errands. It's a great way to be very efficient and stay on top of your business.

Q: Do you have any parting words of wisdom?
A: I'm a scratch agent. That's why NetQuote has been so important. It's helped me to get me off the ground, and now I'm number one in my district. I refer agents in other states because it works for me. Overall I've been very satisfied with NetQuote and it's made a big difference for me in my success. I am very happy with them.

Paul Thrash is based in Elkhart, IN and has been a NetQuote user since the summer of 2007. Thank you very much, Paul, for your time and perspective!