What is the primary characteristic of an independent insurance agent?

An independent insurance agent is defined primarily by their ability to represent multiple insurance companies rather than being tied to a single insurer. This characteristic allows them to provide their clients with a broader range of insurance products and options, enabling them to seek the best coverage and pricing available on the market. The ability to shop various providers gives independent agents a competitive advantage and flexibility, as they can tailor policies to better fit individual client needs.

In contrast, agents who work exclusively for one company cannot offer this diverse selection of products, limiting their ability to meet varied client requirements. Additionally, independent agents are typically not salaried employees and do not have supervisory responsibilities over other agents, which distinguishes them from other roles in the insurance industry.