When I speak to brokers about commercial GI and whether or not this plays a big part in their GI business the answer is more often than not no. I’m usually given two reasons for this. Firstly, they feel commercial GI is too complicated a product and secondly there just isn’t the demand among their client base for such products.

Let’s begin by addressing the first point. Commercial GI can sometimes require quite bespoke solutions so yes, in some cases, it may be a little more complex than the broker feels comfortable with. However, a good provider will have a commercial referral service which will take the headache – and the responsibility and associated compliance – away from the broker.

It is the second point, surrounding a lack of demand, that always amazes me most. Every single business from one man bands to multi-national corporates needs some form of general insurance. From professional indemnity and liability insurance to property insurance, it goes without saying that if you’re running a business you’re going to need cover of some kind. With a target market that wide it seems incomprehensible that there is no demand for these products. The problem, I presume, is that brokers don’t necessarily know where to look.

Start with the simplest approach. If you have an office consider the businesses based around you, the shops on your local high street, the offices in the same building as you. Talk to them. Let them know what services you offer and tell them to feel free to give you a call anytime to discuss their needs.

Take a look at your local newspaper. See which firms are advertising, check the recruitment pages or the classifieds. Make a note of potential clients.

Visit the website of your local Chamber of Commerce. Its list of members should provide you with plenty of leads.

Finally, talk to your existing client base. Many of your customers could have businesses that need protection but don’t expect the person who helped them with their mortgage to be able to meet their business needs. Let them know you offer commercial GI. Even if they don’t have any requirement for it they may well know people who do.

Mark Hutchings  – National Account Manager – Uinsure