卖保险不再是中年职场的退路

Core Viewpoint - The insurance industry, once seen as a safety net for mid-career professionals, is undergoing a significant transformation, with a drastic decline in the number of insurance agents and a shift towards a more professional and high-quality service model [1][4][8]. Group 1: Decline of Insurance Agents - The number of insurance agents in the five major listed insurance companies has been decreasing for five consecutive years, with a total reduction of over 70% from the peak of around 10 million in 2019, equating to more than 100,000 agents leaving the industry each month [1][5][9]. - As of the end of 2023, the number of insurance marketing personnel in life insurance companies was approximately 2.8134 million, a decrease of about 6.31 million from the peak in 2019, reflecting a decline back to levels seen 12 years ago [5][11]. Group 2: Industry Restructuring - The insurance industry is transitioning from a large-scale, low-barrier profession to a more professionalized field, driven by regulatory changes and a focus on quality over quantity [7][8]. - Recent policies from regulatory bodies have prompted a "clean-up" of the industry, leading to significant layoffs and a reduction in unqualified agents [7][11]. Group 3: Shift Towards High-Education Talent - The overall educational level of insurance agents is rising, with nearly 30% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, an increase of about 4 percentage points year-on-year [11][12]. - Major insurance companies are actively recruiting high-educated talents through attractive programs, such as AIA's "HEA High-End Talent Recruitment Plan" and Zhonghong Insurance's "Hongcai Plan," targeting graduates from top universities [12][13]. Group 4: Impact of AI and Market Changes - The penetration of AI in the insurance sector is significant, with AI capable of replacing 50% of entry-level agent tasks, leading to a shift in how insurance products are marketed and sold [17]. - Approximately 66% of insurance agents believe that AI will have a substantial impact on their work, indicating a growing concern about job security in the face of technological advancements [17]. Group 5: Competitive Landscape - The competition among remaining insurance agents has intensified, with a concentration of resources among a small percentage of highly knowledgeable agents who capture 90% of high-end orders in complex fields [14][15]. - The income disparity among agents remains pronounced, with nearly 60% earning less than 10,000 yuan per month, highlighting the challenges faced by many in the industry [15].