Market pain points and opportunities
Talent Acquisition and Retention
In today’s competitive job market, employers across sectors are facing significant challenges in attracting and retaining top talent. According to a 2023 US consumer sentiment survey, over 70% of respondents believe that a comprehensive benefits package is essential for securing the best employees. Reflecting this priority, 51% of companies plan to expand their benefits offerings in the near future. For benefits carriers, this shift presents an opportunity to distinguish themselves in a crowded market. To stand out, they could explore partnerships with ecosystem participants that offer cutting-edge administration platforms and insurtechs that bring unique capabilities and data sources. For example, in July 2023, Prudential Financial teamed up with Nayya to leverage AI and data science, enhancing employees’ ability to make informed benefits decisions during open enrollment.
Climate Change and Health
Climate change is subtly impacting public health, increasing risks associated with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions due to factors like poor air quality and wildfire smoke. Insurers, in collaboration with community stakeholders, could mitigate these risks by investing in health awareness initiatives and early disease prevention programs for affected populations. For instance, some insurance companies in India have begun offering coverage for conditions linked to pollution, such as asthma and COPD, even covering the cost of air purifiers and specialized medications.
Delivering Societal Value
With growing concerns over the savings and protection gap, economic uncertainty, and heightened awareness of severe risks, regulators are urging insurers to adopt business models that benefit society. Rather than just focusing on new products, insurers can achieve growth by investing in climate resilience, financial stability, and promoting physical and mental well-being. This approach not only aligns with customer expectations but also supports societal stability and community welfare.
Personalized Customer Journeys
While customers increasingly expect personalized services, insurance often falls short in this area. By utilizing advanced analytics, insurers can better understand individual needs and offer tailored services and products. Virtual advisors and chatbots, for instance, could provide customized recommendations, guiding customers through their options based on specific data and behaviors.
What Customers Increasingly Demand from Their Insurers
As customer expectations evolve, insurers are called to step up and provide a service experience that reflects modern, digital lifestyles and prioritizes personalized support. Here are the key demands that shape today’s insurance landscape:
- Be Digitally Advanced
Customers expect insurers to match or exceed their own level of digital engagement. This means offering seamless, intuitive, and responsive digital platforms for managing their insurance needs. - Recognize Them as Individuals
Customers no longer want to be treated as just a policy number. They seek personalized engagement across every channel, where they feel known and understood. - Listen and Remember
Insurers are expected to retain customer insights from past interactions, so conversations feel consistent and informed, creating a more meaningful relationship. - Provide 24/7 Support
Customers want the assurance that their insurer is available around the clock, ready to assist and offer support whenever it’s needed. - Engage Thoughtfully
Insurers should engage with customers at a frequency that feels appropriate to them, using their preferred channels, with communication styles tailored to individual preferences and needs. - Ensure Seamless Interactions
Customers value convenience and ease across all channels. Insurers must deliver consistent, enjoyable, and efficient experiences at every interaction point. - Empower and Give Control
Empowering customers to manage their needs on their own terms—when, where, and how they choose—enhances satisfaction and trust. - Offer Relevant, Transparent Products
Modern customers expect clear, convenient pricing and products that align with their needs, without hidden fees or overly complex structures. - Customize Solutions
Insurers must consider customers’ unique circumstances, preferences, and previous interactions to deliver solutions tailored to their specific needs and budgets. - Reward Loyalty
Customers appreciate recognition for their continued loyalty. Insurers that reward long-term clients with exclusive benefits foster trust and brand affinity.
To stay competitive, insurers must respond to these demands, providing digital-first, personalized, and customer-centered experiences that go beyond traditional insurance models.
Source:
2025 global insurance outlook | Deloitte Insights
Top insurance industry trends: Next in insurance: PwC
Market Research Pain Points – Healthcare & Insurance – Fuel Cycle
10 Pivotal Challenges Facing Insurers in 2024 | Insurance Thought Leadership
Customer Journey Map in Insurance: Pain Points and Examples
Fostering Wellbeing Through Digitalisation and Technology – Euromonitor.com