The majority of advisers have resumed face-to-face meetings with clients as firms seek to return to normal in a post-pandemic environment.
Research by Zurich found that two thirds (68%) of advisers have resumed in-person meetings with clients, along with a return to the office (66%) after 16 months of remote working. Nearly a quarter (23%) also said they are meeting with providers.
The insurance giant said a further 20% of advisers are fully intent on meeting clients face-to-face and 22% are planning time in the office, although firm dates are yet to be set. Just 13% of advisers have no plans to return to face-to-face meetings, suggesting for some there is a preference for continued remote working.
Industry events and conferences also look set to return, with nearly three quarters (73%) of those surveyed saying they would be comfortable attending later this year.
Commenting on the findings, Louise Colley, director of Zurich’s Retail Protection business, said: “The pandemic has shown how the industry has done a sterling job in working together to support customers throughout. This includes the ability to flex and adapt, with virtual appointments and things like health screenings to help people secure valuable cover.
“These new ways of working will certainly remain in place for people who may struggle with mobility or transport issues – or generally balancing appointments with work and childcare.
“That said, for many of us, face-to-face contact with colleagues and advisers is absolutely invaluable, and it’s great to see that advisers are looking to support this where customers want it.”
Michele Golunska, chief executive officer at Sesame Bankhall Group, said: “We’re keen to support people back into the office and out meeting clients in person where that’s preferred. What the pandemic has taught us is that we can be flexible and offer customers more choice.
“Being able to do things remotely has provided flexibility for our staff, members, and their clients, and some will want to continue in a similar vein. It’s about offering choice and striking the right balance.”
[Main image: amy-hirschi-unsplash]
