How to Ace Your Insurance Job Interview
The basic rules for securing a job in the insurance industry apply regardless of the type of job. Don’t apply for any job if you don’t have the qualifications. You can substitute experience for the job, but you must be an actuary to get a job in insurance actuary. You must pass the bar to get a job as an attorney in the legal department. While a solid background and industry knowledge can help you rise to the top, a strong spin on your past might just be what the company needs.
Agent:
It can be difficult to secure a job as an agent for insurance. The company may provide stipend payments for several months before your commissions start flowing. You should have a sales plan that you can present to your manager before you go into an interview. A person who is outgoing, organized, professional, and has a general idea of what you will do for the job are all essential. It is a plus to have a good understanding of the market and products that are relevant to your social networks. Any area of study is an advantage.
People who are able to understand their position are more likely to be appreciated by companies. In the beginning, you will work hard and won’t be distracted by the word “no”. Agents believe that there is one yes for every number of no’s. Your skill level will determine the number. Each sale is a step closer. This concept is key to closing an interview.
Show an easygoing, comfortable personality. Reverse rolls is a great trick for any interview. Ask questions about your background and how you got to XYZ Company.
You will not be able to secure a position in the company as a representative if you have two things. First, you must not have a criminal record that you are trying to conceal. Second, bankruptcy will prevent your representative position. It doesn’t matter if your record wasn’t sealed by the time you turned 18, but it was for minor offenses like malicious mischief. This can affect the interview, but not put you out of the running. You won’t be granted the job if you have a conviction for robbery or embezzlement, or any other offense that involves the conversion of funds. Many insurance companies offer securities. To get that license you will need to submit a fingerprint card along with a background check.
A bad credit history and bankruptcy can also prevent you from getting a job. Although bankruptcy and mismanagement of funds are a negative in your past, it is possible to get to the second round of interviews if you have medical bills or another similar problem. Talk straight with the interviewer. Sometimes it works in your favor. You probably know the importance of insurance better than anyone if you or someone you love had to pay high medical bills. Don’t hide the fact that you are struggling to make a difference. It is better to tell the company about your background check, which includes a credit check.
Sales Manager
Many companies are looking for representatives with experience, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be considered if you don’t. You have a good chance of getting the job if you have a positive track record of training sales reps in any sales type and are able to learn the industry.
Office and Clerical Staff
Know the job description if you are applying for a home office position. You can find a job in any office if you are a good writer and have excellent organizational skills. Insurance companies are no exception.
You will need to have a unique personality in order to help representatives at local offices. Representatives can be notoriously lazy with paperwork. Being able to learn the industry and insurance laws is a bonus. Your employer may offer to pay for your license. Some states require clients to have a license before they can talk about policies. They are quite expensive. You should consider obtaining it for free. This is one more qualification to your resume.
Adjuster
You must have experience in insurance and repair bidding, regardless of the company you work for. A good choice is to be an adjuster for homeowners insurance if you are familiar with the building trades. A background in auto insurance is a plus if you can estimate the job and determine what repairs will be required.
You will need to be able to use the computer as you would any other worker. The majority of claims programs are computerized. An adjuster’s license is also required. Insurance companies may train you in certain cases. You must be willing to learn and take on the training. You must be polite, kind, and always look out for the company’s interests.