Education keeps agents current

MetroRAP provided opportunities to earn up to 15 “bridge” continuing-education credits—credits approved for all licenses—in one day and also get approved E&O credit by Fireman’s Fund and Utica Mutual.

Early planners were able to take 12 credits, by taking the self-study course prior to the show, and then sitting for the monitored exam: Advertising, Rebating & Referrals: Staying Compliant when Designing Your Market Plans.

For those who preferred to attend a class in person, MetroRAP offered two education sessions, each taught by the well-respected instructor Cathy Trischan, CPCU, CRM, CIC, ARM, AU, AAI, CRIS, MLIS, both attended by some 40 insurance professionals. Cyber Liability in 2013—The 21st Century Peril, was available in the morning for two credits and E&O—Practical Solutions for the Insurance Professional, a timely course, particularly for those facing potential litigation after Storm Sandy, was available for three credits in the afternoon. Credits earned in these courses were approved for licenses in both New York and New Jersey.

Cyber and data breach perils are such a huge exposure for clients and many insurance professionals are uncomfortable discussing the subject with them. Trischan’s goal in the morning education session was to help participants gain a comfort level with the topic so they felt confident in bringing the subject and recommending the coverage to clients.

In the afternoon session, Trischan gave participants practical suggestions to help reduce their exposure to an E&O claim. “For many agents, even one or two changes in how they do things can make a big difference,” said Trischan. Since many agents also are concerned about potential E&O claims resulting from Superstorm Sandy, Trischan also spent time discussing what an agency should and shouldn’t do in the event of a claim.