The proportion of business owners using brokers increased last year, according to the latest Vero SME Insurance Index.

About 36% of owners exclusively used brokers, up from 34% in 2014 but still down on 40% in 2013.

And 68% of clients are satisfied with their brokers, rating them at least eight out of 10.

A further 20% are “somewhat satisfied”, and only 12% rate their brokers less than five out of 10.

The report notes the threat from digital disruption and urges brokers to invest in professional, mobile-enabled websites and a strong social media presence.

It also says they need to work on personal relationships, and go beyond just providing insurance.

Suncorp Group National Manager Commercial Intermediaries Anthony Pagano told insuranceNEWS.com.au it is about getting back to basics.

“The report is a reminder to brokers that this is a relationship business. It’s about how you engage with your client,” he said.

As insuranceNEWS.com.au reported in a Breaking News bulletin on Thursday, the index also highlights the fact small businesses are not as well insured as their owners believe.

For example, 80% of those who rank “being unable to trade” as one of their top concerns do not have business interruption insurance.

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