Pros
Fellow colleagues are generally supportive and relationships with policyholders positive
Cons
Head Office and managers have no idea what it is like to work in a commissioned agency. Delegated compliant tasks for agency staff with limited knowledge, understanding, experience or time to undertake correct procedures. Unrealistic targets set by newly appointed senior managers from large private insurance companies with little comprehension of why NFU Mutual has a high reputation for service. An increasing belief by senior managers that sales takes precedence over service, despite protests to the contrary. An increasingly disillusioned workforce who are fed up with high workloads with low rewards. Many experienced agents being replaced by people with little or no experience of farming or insurance. Neighbouring agencies fighting over good risks to the detriment of company cohesion and morale. Poor rating leading to uncompetitive premiums and time wasted by agency staff and underwriters in negotiating discounts.