Agency News
January 2025
This Month’s Featured Content

Small Business: Easier, Faster Business Classification with Codes Now Pre-Populated!
When you create a quote, the last thing you want to do is search for business codes. That’s why Westfield upgraded our platform to do it for you. Click here to learn more about this exciting new enhancement!
How to Sell Ting and Use It as a Retention Tool
The new year is a great time to refocus on protecting customers, preventing losses, and supporting long-term relationships. Ting helps support these efforts by identifying potential electrical fire hazards early, giving customers peace of mind while providing agents with a practical way to add value in both new business and renewal conversations.
Using Claims Services to Win and Retain Workers’ Comp Business
When customers ask about workers’ compensation, price often dominates the conversation. But agents like you know that cost is only part of the story, and rarely the part that determines how satisfied a customer will be over time.

Social Media
Shareable Social Media Content Library
Timely, relevant content to engage your clients on social media. Our shareable posts make it easy to stay active and informative across your channels. Check back each month for new posts.
Just Added! Six New Featured January Posts Are Ready to Use.
Trends and Challenges
Industry Insights
2026 Agency Marketing Checklist
"It’s true—insurance agencies that follow the strategies outlined on this checklist have seen those results, and your agency can, too. Now that it’s 2026, there is no better time than now to mark these items off your checklist so you can take your agency’s marketing to the next level. From increasing the inbound leads you get to maximizing your client communications, here are the 10 things your agency needs this year to be as successful as possible."Staying Safe On The Farm This Winter
"As temperatures drop and the icy mornings settle across Ohio, the farm becomes a different workplace. Tasks take longer, conditions are ever-changing, and a simple chore can become much riskier when cold, wind, or moisture are factored in. For farmers, knowing what to expect and how to prevent common winter hazards can make all the difference."How to Help Clients Understand the Value of an Independent Agent
"As an independent agent, your role extends far beyond selling policies. You simplify complexity, offer tailored solutions and stand by clients when they need it most. This article highlights five ways to communicate that value, helping you position yourself as a trusted advisor."Email Marketing Best Practices for Insurance Agencies
"Email marketing has evolved over the years to the point where a lot of what was manual can now be covered with smart automation. Let’s go over the basics of email marketing best practices, along with actionable tips and tricks you can start using to kickstart or improve your current strategy."Tell Your Agency’s Story: How to Stand Out in the Insurance Market
"Imagine your insurance agency being featured on the front page of a magazine cover 10 years from now—what would the headline say?" In this article, learn how to use storytelling to help your agency stand out in the insurance market.How to Overcome the Most Common Challenges Facing Insurance Agencies
"If there’s one thing that unifies independent insurance agencies, it’s the common challenges they face day in and day out. We’ll give you the insights into how you can make your agency look amazing and get found, so you can sell more and service better."The Future of AI in Insurance: 2025 Predictions
According to a 2024 Deloitte survey, 76% of U.S. insurance firms have already implemented generative AI capabilities in at least one business function. Yet AI implementation challenges persist. Learn more about what 2025 holds for AI in the insurance industry.Why the Future for Brokers is Data-Driven
The latest Insurance Age Pulse survey explores how brokers are using data insight to guide business strategy, and reveals why more now see data as an essential factor for growth. Rachel Gordon reportsTop 4 Marketing Strategies Ranked by Insurance Agencies
Of the four marketing strategy categories, Content, Search Engine, Traditional, and Word-of-Mouth marketing, here is how insurance agencies ranked each of these in terms of success.5 Ways to Prepare for the End of the Hard Market
For a long time, the hard market has made it difficult for agents to offer their clients the coverage they want at affordable prices — assuming coverage was available at all. Now, there are signs that this is changing. Before the hard market ends, agencies can position themselves for a successful soft market by taking these five steps.
Observations and Opportunities
Claims Corner
Grain Bin Auger Accidents Peak in Winter
"Purdue research reveals grain bin auger incidents surge from January through June. Unguarded floor openings cause nearly 40% of documented cases." Learn more about this trend and how to instill better habits to help prevent future accidents from occurring.How to Prepare for a Hurricane
Being prepared for a hurricane can help minimize the storm’s impact and speed up the recovery process. While meteorologists typically warn when a hurricane is developing, these storms are unpredictable, and there may not be enough time to get ready. That’s why it’s essential to proactively share clear steps to help customers prepare their homes and families before a storm becomes imminent.Hurricane Preparedness Social Media Posts
By sharing these posts with your network, you play a vital role in increasing awareness and encouraging hurricane preparedness across your community. A single post can remind someone to make a plan, restock emergency supplies, or stay informed—actions that could ultimately save lives.Property Insurance Claims Checklist
Our property insurance claims checklist helps homeowners and business owners be ready for when a loss strikes. Whether your home or business was impacted by water, lightning, fire, or storm damage, having a property insurance claims checklist can help you take the right steps to get back to normalcy as quickly as possible.The Commercial Auto Claims Process: What You Need to Know
Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, accidents involving your company’s vehicles can be stressful. Having a clear plan in place can help ensure a smooth claims experience and get your team back on the road with minimal business interruption.How to Prevent Ice Dams: A Homeowner's Guide
Winter weather brings snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures that can wreak havoc on your home — especially your roof. One major hazard to watch for is ice dams. Left unchecked, ice dams can lead to costly roof repairs, water damage, and even structural issues.Common Causes of House Fires & How to Prevent Them
House fires are statistically more likely to occur during the winter months. Discover the top causes of house fires and essential prevention tips to help keep you and your clients safe. This informative guide covers key areas, from cooking and heating to electrical faults, smoking, and candles.Customers Can Report Claims Through MyWestfield
Customers who log into their MyWesfield account can report certain home and auto claims digitally. This user-friendly platform helps ensure that customers receive rapid assistance from our dedicated Customer Care Team, enabling a personalized and efficient claims process.
Explore More Content
Agency News Archive
Top Content:
- Co-Branded Marketing, Leadership Updates, and More: The Year's Most Popular Articles
- New! Westfield Small Business: Advanced Call Options, Real-Time Support
- Westfield Standard Lines 2025: Key Insights to Help You Win
- 2025 Digital Enhancements Recap
- Celebrating 20 Years of Giving: Westfield Insurance Foundation
- Employee Spotlight Series Recap and Looking Ahead
Industry Insights:
Claims Corner:
Top Content:
- WATCH: What’s ahead for Westfield Small Business
- WATCH: Investing in Your Success: What's Next with Personal Lines
- See How Ting is Saving Lives, Lowering Costs, and Building Loyalty — All at No Cost.
- Does Your Small Business Need Cyber Insurance?
- Boost Your Sprinkler Grade: The Ultimate Inspection Checklist
Top Content:
- Rental Reimbursement Continuing Education Course
- Top Farming Accidents and How to Prevent Them
- What Impacts the Cost of Homeowners Insurance: Key Factors You Should Know
- Help Your Clients Prevent Costly Water Damage With Our Sensor Pilot Program
- Claims Notes Expanded to Include Workers' Compensation
- What is Business Interruption Insurance? Everything You Need to Know
Top Content:
- New Video Podcast from Westfield Personal Lines
- NEW! Westfield Standard Lines Q2 Insights
- Now Live: A Faster, More Personalized MyWestfield®
- Driving Increased Clarity in our Small Business Appetite
- Find Westfield Contacts with Ease in the New AWP
Bonus Content:
- Westfield Advances Insurance Strategy with Sale of Banking Business
- Introducing John Ryznar, Head of Small Business Underwriting
- Update: Premium Refunds Direct to Customers
- Personal Lines - Comparative Rater Update
- Westfield Marks One Year of Electrical Fire Prevention Success Through Smart Technology Initiative
- Roof Insurance Explained: Coverages, Claims, and Loss Settlements
Top Content:
- Sara Tester Named AVP, Distribution Management & Marketing
- Westfield Personal Lines Outlook: Stronger Together in 2025
- Westfield Responds to Growing Flood Threats with $750K Donation and Expanded Insurance Coverage Add-on Options
- Exciting Changes Ahead for MyWestfield®
- Unlocking the Full Potential of SuretySync
Bonus Content:
- Don't Miss It! Workers Compensation Takeover
- Ting Now Available for Farm and Homeowner Policyholders
- 3 New Ways to Write More Small Business — Starting Now!
- The Commercial Auto Claims Process: What You Need to Know
- Manufacturing Insurance: Your Top Questions Answered
- Complete Our New Website Survey for a Chance to Win!
Top Content:
- Better, Faster, Smarter - Unlock the New Marketing Solutions!
- Complete Our Social Media Survey for a Chance to Win!
- Coming Soon! Westfield SuretySync for Commercial Bonds
- WATCH: Positioned for Success - Westifeld Standard Lines in 2025
- NEW! Westfield Q1 Standard Lines Insights Guide
