What Holiday Movies Can Teach Us About Building Better Client Relationships...and Why 'It's a Wonderful Life' Gets Healthcare All Wrong

Let's have a little fun today. While you're curled up with hot cocoa and watching your favorite holiday films, you might not be thinking about health insurance (shocking, I know). But as someone who spends their days working with health insurance brokers, I couldn't help but notice some interesting parallels...and a few cringe-worthy misconceptions.

Sorry, George Bailey: That's Not How Modern Healthcare Works

First, let's address the elephant in the room: "It's a Wonderful Life." While it's a beloved classic that makes us all cry happy tears, George Bailey's approach to financial services feels a lot like how people think health insurance brokers operate…. just saying "no" to people in need. The reality couldn't be more different.

Modern health insurance brokers are more like guardian angels (minus the wings) who help navigate the complex healthcare system and find solutions that work for each unique situation. Speaking of which...

What Clarence the Angel Can Teach Us About Client Education

Here's where the movie gets something surprisingly right. Like Clarence, who shows George the impact he's had on his community, great health insurance brokers help clients see the bigger picture. We're not just matching people with policies...we're helping protect families from medical bankruptcy, ensuring access to necessary care, and providing peace of mind.

The lesson? Sometimes people need to see the "what if" scenarios to understand the value of proper coverage. Though maybe skip the whole "showing them a world where they were never born" part.

The Santa Clause: Read the Fine Print!

Tim Allen's character accidentally becomes Santa by putting on the suit, thanks to the "Santa Clause" (get it?). While this makes for great entertainment, it's a perfect metaphor for how important it is to understand your health insurance policy before you sign.

In our world, this means:

1. Taking time to explain networks and formularies in plain English
2. Making sure clients understand their deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums
3. Being available for questions during open enrollment (though maybe not via chimney)
4. Helping clients understand what their actual costs will be

Miracle on 34th Street: The Power of Trust and Network Recommendations

When Kris Kringle sends Macy's customers to other stores, it actually builds more trust in Macy's. There's a powerful lesson here for health insurance brokers: sometimes the best way to build trust is to admit when another plan or network might be better for your client.

Your reputation as an honest broker who puts clients first is worth more than any single sale. And unlike proving Santa exists, you don't need mail from the US Postal Service to demonstrate your trustworthiness…. just consistent, client-focused service.

Elf: The Importance of Standing Out in Your Market

Remember how Buddy the Elf stood out in New York City? While I'm not suggesting you wear yellow tights to your next client meeting, there's something to be learned about authenticity and differentiation. In a world where many people think all health insurance brokers are the same, it's crucial to let your unique value proposition shine.

The Grinch Who Almost Stole Coverage

Remember how the Grinch's heart grew three sizes? Sometimes we need to help our clients' understanding of health insurance grow just as dramatically. Many people start out thinking health insurance is just another bill to pay (very Grinch-like thinking), but with proper education and care, they can transform into advocates who truly understand its value in protecting their family's well-being.

This is especially true when explaining concepts like:

• Why preventive care matters
• How HSAs can save money long-term
• Why network restrictions aren't just arbitrary rules

Wrapping It Up (Holiday Pun Intended)

While holiday movies might not be the best health insurance training materials, they remind us of what matters most in our business: building trust, protecting families, and being there when people need us most. Just try to be more Clarence and less pre-transformation Grinch in your approach.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go watch "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" for more insurance metaphors. Happy holidays!

P.S. If you’d like to learn how we can support you in the new year with your LinkedIn content, don’t hesitate to message me!