The Medicare AEP (Annual Enrollment Period) is almost here! As we all know, it can be a crazy season of the year. Without preparation, it can be easy to get lost in the amount of work you have to face each day. We’ve compiled nine tips to help you navigate the Medicare AEP and keep your stress where it needs to be. We’re confident that just doing some of these tips will help you succeed during this busy time.
1.) Ask for Help
Sometimes the simplest of gestures can provide the most assistance to you. So, ask for help! Carolina Senior Marketing is here for you every step of the way, with resources to help you stay on track through the Medicare AEP.
“Preparing for the Medicare AEP can be overwhelming. Remember you’re not alone, we are here to help you stay on top of everything that needs to be completed!”
— Chris Howell, VP of Agent Services
2.) Have a Good Attitude
Mindset is everything. A lot of success stems from what attitude you have going into it. If you have a positive attitude toward everything thrown your way during the Medicare AEP, chances are you’ll fair better than had you not.
“You get to work with and help many new and previous clients. To make AEP run smoothly, take some time in the weeks leading up to get organized and implement workflows to make it an even better Medicare AEP.”
— Laney Flaugher, Marketing Team Assistant
3.) Stay on Top of Things
It’s easy to get behind during the Medicare AEP. Not staying current with your enrollments will only add more stress on top of the next day. Keeping with your daily schedule will keep stress levels at bay and allow for more opportunities the next day.
“I recommend keeping a daily planner or journal, as this can help you organize your thoughts and to-do lists. But most of all, always stay on top of your prospects! You got this.”
— Brett Zeck, Senior Graphic Designer
4.) Make Time for Yourself
AEP is a very important time for insurance agents, however, getting too bogged down in work and not allowing time to reset and do things for you could result in you resenting your work. Keeping a good work-life balance is not only essential for a successful Medicare AEP, but also for your overall fulfillment in your career.
“Give yourself at LEAST one day a week to focus on yourself so you don’t feel overwhelmed.”
— Emily Prince, Multimedia Manager
5.) Get Lots of Sleep
The amount of sleep you get will directly impact how productive you are, your mood, and your stress levels for the next day. Studies proved that sticking to a routine that affords 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night improves your memory, lowers stress levels, and heightens your creativity! Getting lots of rest keeps you on top of your game during the Medicare AEP and keeps you from making careless mistakes.
“Remember to give yourself breaks and get a good night’s sleep. Be kind of yourself and stay rested and you’ll be able to take on the Medicare AEP!”
— Audrey Dana, Agent Services Specialist
6.) Stick to a Healthy Diet
It may sound silly, but your diet also impacts your performance during the Medicare AEP. Eating an imbalanced diet, especially during a time that is already stressful, can spell disaster for your body and overall health. So cut down on junk food and take time on the weekends to plan your meals, that way you’ll have ready-to-eat healthy food without the hassle, and you’ll do yourself a favor by having one less decision to make each day.
“One of the best things you can do for yourself is to eat consistently, but also eat well. Make sure you’re eating a well-rounded diet, but treat yourself sometimes!”
— Brett Zeck, Senior Graphic Designer
7.) View it as Your Time to Shine
The Medicare AEP runs right up to the end of the year. View this period as your time to shine! Every sale matters. Getting after it with a healthy, but competitive mindset can spur positive results.
“This time is when insurance agents really shine and do what they do best, serving their clients’ needs. It’s part of the job and we’re always proud of their efforts.”
— Becca Cochrane, VP of Marketing
8.) Be Organized
The Medicare AEP is chaotic enough. Set yourself up for success beforehand by making sure everything is in its place. Once you’re organized, try to keep it that way. Having things readily available and where they’re supposed to be will help lower your stress throughout the period.
“Being ready for any marketing needs as early as possible will mitigate any last-minute stress.”
— Emily Prince, Multimedia Specialist
9.) Destress
Whether it’s going for a walk, a bike ride, or just sitting completely still on the couch, do something that you enjoy. If your mind is constantly buzzing about work, consider letting a trusted insurance FMO handle the hard work for you. They’ll handle the details so you can keep right on selling to clients, or just tending to your life outside of work.
“One thing I’ve often overlooked in a busy work season is carving out time to destress. This goes beyond getting sleep! Rather, it looks like actively scheduling rest in your calendar like you would any other appointment. Examples could be: creating a 15–30-minute daily block for movement, designating one evening to turn off the work devices and read a chapter in your book of choice or watch an episode of your favorite show, or finding a break in your schedule to grab lunch with a loved one (no work talk allowed)! Prioritizing the people and hobbies you love during a busy season will help you maintain perspective and momentum. Remember: you can’t pour out from an empty cup!”
— Sarah Hinson, Social Media Specialist
Look no further than partnering with a North Carolina-based Medicare FMO like Carolina Senior Marketing if you’re not already an independent agent with us. Give us a call at (919) 460-6073 or email info@carolinaseniormarketing.com.
