How to Form New Work Habits

Research shows that it only takes 21 days to form a habit. 21 days, 3 weeks, ¾ of a month – no matter how you look at it, forming a new habit can be easy with focus and determination. Creating good work habits and breaking bad work habits can make you productive, efficient, and a better agent!

Importance of Work Habits

Habits surround your daily routine in almost every aspect of your life. Did you know that half of the time you’re awake is spent on automatic, habitual behavior? A study at Duke University showed that 45% of your daily tasks are automatic. This means that every other minute you’re doing something you’re not even aware of! This means that you are saving energy throughout the day. Brains accomplish this by forming habits with our repeated behavior. The brain divides our daily patterns into small chunks. Those chunks can be automated, which requires less brain activity the more it is repeated.

The average person works roughly 40 hours a week. Who wouldn’t want to save as much energy as possible? Humans want to be as efficient as possible, and our brain can help! Save energy by forming good work habits and eliminate bad work habits that are distracting or counter-productive.

Good Work Habits

• Be early

Have you ever heard of the phrase “if you’re 5 minutes early, you’re 10 minutes late”? This phrase certainly applies in the workforce! Being early to any meeting or appointment shows that you are organized and prepared. Always leave time for traffic or any other obstacle that may cross your path.

• Organization

Having an organized workspace is essential for success. As an agent, you may have important documents from seniors and Medicare eligibles. If you are untidy, then you may misplace important information. Plus, staying organized can save time and alleviate stress.

• Avoid gossip

Avoid office gossip at all costs. Never be the distributor of gossip and if you’re in a group who is gossiping, leave or change the conversation. Gossip is a powerhouse of negativity and can lead to an inefficient work environment.

• Accept criticism

No matter how many sales you close or appointments you set, there is always room for improvement! Constructive criticism is crucial for success. You should always accept constructive criticism and make changes appropriately. In a team environment, other’s success is dependent upon your success, so don’t be upset by criticism.

• Put your phone away

In today’s modern society a phone can do almost anything. Unfortunately, phones create a barrier in conversations. When you are meeting with potential beneficiaries, put the phone away. There is something to be said for having someone’s undivided attention.

• Dress for success

Dressing in a professional manner creates confidence and encourages success. It also creates a great first impression on any senior and Medicare eligible.

• Listen

As an agent, you spend countless hours talking with potential beneficiaries. You will be more likely to close a sale when you listen. Each beneficiary will have different health issues and desired coverage. It’s crucial that you listen to their needs, budget, and concerns. You want to make sure they are provided with the best possible coverage, so be sure to listen and give them your undivided attention.

Bad Work Habits

• Procrastination

We have all been a victim of procrastination at some point in our lives. It’s so easy to push something to the following day. This is a habit that affects many of us! Procrastinating at work can lead to missed deadlines and opportunities. Do your best to be conscious of your tasks and proactively finish them as soon as possible.

• Negativity

Negativity can lower your productivity and create an unbearable work environment. It’s easy to look at the negatives, but instead, try to focus on the positives. Negativity is contagious, and you shouldn’t spread it to your coworkers or potential beneficiaries.

• Tardiness

If you are late to a meeting, it gives the impression that the other person is not important. If you are planning to meet with a potential beneficiary, it is crucial you are on time.

• Complain

Complaining goes hand in hand with negativity. Every opportunity should be appreciated, and complaining can make you look ungrateful.

• Poor communication

Communication is key, especially in the workforce. If you are not effectively communicating with your coworkers and potential beneficiaries, then you may not succeed. Do your best to communicate any conflicts or issues, but also communicate any praise towards other co-workers.

Become an SMA Agent

Seniors are trusting you to provide them with the best information possible. Good work habits can help that happen! At Senior Market Advisors, you can contract with almost every carrier in your state! Ready to contract? Visit agentcontract.com to start digitally contracting, or click here to get in touch with one of our agent advisors.