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Working through an insurance agent used to be a lot more common. Today, it’s easy for customers to get immediate quotes online and purchase insurance directly from the companies that originate it. For insurance agents in many lines of business—especially in consumer-facing coverage—it can be more difficult than ever to persuade customers that your services aren’t just valuable, but necessary.

However, it’s not impossible. The truth is that there are many advantages to working through an insurance agent, even in the age of instant online quotes and direct writer insurance companies. Here are a few of them.

Customers are more likely to get the coverage they really need. Consumers without extensive industry knowledge often go for the lowest premium possible—even if that means they end up under-insured. Of course, that can lead to significant problems if they ever have to file a claim. Insurance agents can help consumers evaluate and decide on the coverage they really need within their price range.

The signup process is just as convenient. A lot of people believe that the signup process is quicker, so it’s easiest to just go directly to the insurer to get insurance. That’s not necessarily the case. Insurance agents often provide the same instant quote features on their websites that insurers themselves do.

Complex issues and changes can be handled more efficiently. Direct insurers often pass off more complicated coverage changes and questions to call centers whose representatives may or may not have extensive industry knowledge. By contrast, insurance agents have the expertise to handle complex changes and unusual requirements, and are often better equipped to provide knowledgeable guidance that saves both time and money.

The customer service is often better. Large insurance companies may have long wait times, extensive automated phone systems, and customer service representatives who are not as knowledgeable about coverage as an insurance agent would be. Often, insurance agents are more accessible by phone, and can provide expertise beyond what a customer service representative can offer.

Working with an insurance agent or broker can be a great deal for consumers. Insurance agents provide priceless expertise to help consumers get the coverage they need at a price that works. In addition, it’s often easier to get an agent on the phone, and the customer service is often better. Concentrate on these selling points when reaching out to customers, and you’re likely to see good results.