Employee Benefits Consultant

An effective employee benefits program is an important factor in building a loyal work force. The challenge is to create a combination of benefits that meets the needs of the organization and also fits its budget. As an employee benefits consultant, you will help growing businesses survey their employees to learn their needs and wants regarding employer-paid insurance. You will work with business owners to design the best combination of benefits for the dollars available. Businesses that have between twenty and 200 employees comprise the best market.


Most of your contact with clients will take place at their locations, so your office can be functional rather than impressive ($4,000 should get you started). You’ll need to be easy for potential and current clients to reach, and you’ll need to produce professional-looking presentations to client companies. You should plan to earn about $30,000 in the beginning.


Many insurance agents have terrible sales approaches. They seem very eager for their commissions and do not give ongoing service throughout the year. As annual review time rolls around, these agents show up again with a plan to change to new providers for a few dollars less. But implementation and employee education are lacking. You will be able to set yourself apart if your focus is on customer service, not your own profit (at least outwardly). Experience in assisting with claims and with con?icts that arise are also important selling points for your enterprise.


Approx. cost of start-up: $5,000 to $8,000


Approx. potential earnings:$30,000 to $70,000


Typical fees: $25 and up per hour


Where to promote: Direct mail, networking, memberships in business and community organizations, Web site with links to related resources


Qualifications: Extensive experience in insurance sales, ability to reach business owners, detail orientation, communications skills


Things needed:Office furniture, computer, fax, printer, cell phone, business card, letterhead, envelopes


Required staff: No


Hidden costs: Preparation of presentation materials, online fees, errors and omissions insurance