two clients speaking with an insurance agent at rich and cartmill about their business's needs

How to Choose the Right Insurance Agent for Your Business

Selecting the right insurance agent is one of the most important decisions a business owner can make. Insurance isn’t just about policies—it’s about protecting your company, employees, and financial future. With so many options available, how do you find an agent who truly understands your business and can help you reduce risk while keeping costs manageable?

At Rich & Cartmill, Inc., we’ve built our reputation on personalized service, deep industry knowledge, and long-term client relationships. As the largest privately owned insurance agency in Oklahoma and one of the largest in the Southwest, we know what it takes to provide businesses with customized insurance solutions that stand the test of time.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Insurance Agent

Your insurance agent should do more than just sell policies—they should act as a trusted advisor who helps you:

  • Understand your unique risks and how to mitigate them.
  • Build an insurance program tailored to your industry and business size.
  • Reduce your overall cost of risk, not just your premium.
  • Adapt coverage as your business grows and evolves.

The wrong agent might sell you a one-size-fits-all policy, leaving you with gaps in coverage or unnecessary expenses. That’s why it’s critical to work with someone who takes the time to understand your business inside and out.

A Legacy of Trust and Expertise

For more than 100 years, Rich & Cartmill has been dedicated to helping businesses protect what matters most. As Ryan Tubener shares, his grandfather spent over 50 years at Rich & Cartmill, instilling the values that still drive our agency today:

“Ryan, you have to understand your customers so you can build an insurance program that fits their needs and reduces their overall cost of risk.”

This client-first approach has helped us grow from a medium-sized agency to a regional leader in business insurance. Many doubted our ability to succeed in an industry dominated by national firms, but we’ve proven that personalized service and expert guidance make all the difference.

What to Look for in an Insurance Agent

Before selecting an insurance agent for your business, ask yourself these key questions:

1. Do They Understand Your Industry?

Every industry has unique risks, and your agent should have experience working with businesses like yours. At Rich & Cartmill, we serve a wide range of industries, including:

  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Retail
  • Transportation
  • Professional services

A knowledgeable agent will identify potential risks before they become costly problems and recommend coverage tailored to your operations.

2. Can They Customize Coverage to Fit Your Business?

No two businesses are the same, so why settle for cookie-cutter coverage? A great insurance agent will:

  • Analyze your specific risks.
  • Offer multiple coverage options.
  • Recommend the best combination of policies for comprehensive protection.

Whether you need general liability, workers’ compensation, commercial property, or specialized industry coverage, your agent should ensure you’re protected without overpaying.

3. Are They Focused on Risk Reduction, Not Just Selling Policies?

Insurance isn’t just about filing claims after something goes wrong—it’s about reducing risk before issues arise. At Rich & Cartmill, we take a proactive approach by:

  • Conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Recommending safety and loss prevention measures.
  • Helping businesses lower premiums by improving workplace safety.

4. Do They Have a Strong Reputation and Track Record?

Longevity in the insurance industry is a sign of trust and reliability. Many agencies that started alongside us are no longer around, but Rich & Cartmill has continued to grow and thrive.

We’ve built a legacy of honesty, integrity, and client-first service, making us the go-to insurance provider for businesses across Oklahoma and beyond.

Why Businesses Trust Rich & Cartmill

When choosing an insurance agent, you want a partner who will be there for the long haul—not just when it’s time to renew your policy. At Rich & Cartmill, we take pride in building lasting relationships with our clients by offering:

  • Deep industry expertise – We understand your business and its risks.
  • Custom insurance programs – Tailored coverage that meets your specific needs.
  • Risk management solutions – Strategies to lower costs and improve safety.A commitment to service – We’re here when you need us, not just when it’s convenient.

Find the Right Insurance Partner Today

Before selecting an insurance agent, make sure they truly understand your business and its risks. If you’re looking for an experienced team that puts your success first, Rich & Cartmill is here to help.

To learn more or to speak with an insurance expert, contact us today. Let’s build an insurance program that protects your business and reduces your cost of risk.