The insurance industry is a dynamic and rewarding field, offering diverse opportunities for growth and development.
Whether you're just starting or looking to advance your career, navigating the job market effectively is key.
We asked industry experts, Emma Lillis from Amwins Global Risks, Gemma Arnold from Gallagher Re, Charlie Jones from Aviva and Jonathan Turner from Gallagher Specialty, for their top tips to help you succeed in your job search.
1. How to secure Insurance job interviews without prior experience of the role
Emma Lillis, Talent Acquisition Manager at Amwins Global Risks, provides tips for securing interviews even without prior work experience:
- Emphasise transferable skills: Highlight transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in your application. Showcase how skills from school projects, part-time jobs, or volunteer work can be applied to the role.
- Tailor your application: Customise your CV, cover letter, and interview responses to highlight your transferable skills. Demonstrate your potential and adaptability to employers by focusing on how these skills can benefit their organisation.
By emphasising transferable skills, you can effectively bridge any experience gaps and demonstrate your readiness to grow and succeed in your chosen field.
2. How to calm your nerves before an interview
Gemma Arnold, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Gallagher Re, offers practical advice to calm your nerves before an interview:
- Preparation is key: Research the organisation thoroughly, study the job description, and prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewers. This shows genuine interest and readiness.
- Plan ahead: Plan your travel route, prepare your outfit in advance, and practice interview questions with friends or family. Arriving early allows for any unexpected delays.
- Boost confidence: On the day of the interview, have a good breakfast and listen to your favorite music to increase your confidence.
These steps can help you channel your nerves positively and perform your best during the interview.
3. How to handle rejection, stay motivated and improve resilience
Charlie Jones, Strategic Resourcing Partner at Aviva, shares strategies for handling rejection and staying motivated during the job search process. Rejections can be tough, but here are Charlie's tips to navigate setbacks effectively:
- Don’t take it personally: Understand that rejections are often due to competition and fit, not personal shortcomings. Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial.
- Seek support and feedback: Utilise your network for advice and constructive criticism on your CV and interview skills. Feedback helps refine your approach and improve your chances.
- Find mentorship: Engage with mentors, both internally and externally. They offer guidance, boost confidence, and provide valuable career insights.
- Embrace change: View rejections as opportunities for redirection. Reflect on your transferable skills and explore alternative career paths aligned with your goals.
Remember, persistence and adaptability are key to finding the right opportunity.
4. How to advance your Insurance career strategically
Jonathan Turner, Chief Executive Officer at Gallagher Specialty, shares his expert advice on advancing your career:
- Get qualified: Establish a strong knowledge base in your field by gaining relevant qualifications. This helps you stay ahead of the competition.
- Contribute to innovation: Deliver exceptional work and make your boss’s life easier. These efforts naturally attract new opportunities.
- Connect widely: Engage with diverse business areas and professionals. Broadening your network can open up new perspectives and opportunities.
- Acknowledge gaps: Identify gaps in your knowledge and seek input from others. Learning from their experiences can enhance your own value.
As the industry progresses, data skills will become crucial. Develop a data-driven mindset early on by mastering data analysis, articulation, and visualisation tools.
How can iCAN support you?
Embarking on a career in the insurance industry can be both challenging and rewarding. By leveraging the advice of industry experts and utilising resources like iCAN and iCAN Apply, you can navigate your career path with confidence and achieve your professional goals. We’re here to help you.
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