Expert tips for navigating your insurance career: August roundup
The insurance industry is a dynamic and rewarding field, offering diverse opportunities for growth and development.
Whether you're just starting out or you’re looking to advance your career in insurance, navigating the job market effectively is key. To help you with this, each month we ask some industry experts for their top tips to help you succeed in your job search.
This month we asked Sunita Gaddu from RSA, Kishan Manek from CNA Hardy, Tom Rhead from AXA XL and Jason Harris from QBE Insurance for their expert advice on finding your next role in the insurance sector.
Read our previous career tips:
· Tips for navigating your Insurance career: July roundup
1. How to research employers when applying for insurance roles
Sunita Gaddu, Global Network Relationship Manager at RSA, shares essential advice on researching employers when applying for roles:
- Identify your priorities and consider what is important to you beyond salary. Look for organisations that align with your non-negotiables, such as hybrid or remote working, flexible hours, commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and career development opportunities.
- Utilise multiple sources to research companies e.g. through their career pages and social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. These platforms can provide insight into the culture and values of the organisation.
- Seek employee feedback by visiting websites like Glassdoor and Indeed to find out what current and former employees think about the company. This provides an authentic view of the workplace environment.
- Ask questions during interviews and use the interview process to gather more information and ensure the company aligns with your values and career goals. This helps you find a business where you can thrive and achieve a work/life balance.
2. How to interpret insurance job descriptions
Kishan Manek, Talent Acquisition Advisor at CNA Hardy, shares practical advice on interpreting job descriptions:
- Master the job description. Break down each line of the job description to grasp its requirements thoroughly. Articulate how your experience aligns with each point.
- Clarify any acronyms that are used and don’t hesitate to ask your network about any unfamiliar acronyms in the job description. Sometimes, the simplest explanation can clarify a lot!
- Highlight relevant experience and make sure your application clearly demonstrates how your skills and background directly address the job's requirements.
3. How to craft an effective CV for insurance job applications
Tom Rhead, Talent Acquisition Consultant at AXA XL, highlights critical advice for crafting effective CVs:
- Divide your CV into clear sections like key skills, relevant experience (starting with the most recent), and education.
- Highlight relevant skills that directly relate to the role you're applying for. Avoid unnecessary details or "information dumping."
- Be concise and avoid waffling. Focus on presenting your experience and achievements in a clear and impactful manner.
A structured CV increases readability and highlights your suitability for the role.
4. How to overcome failure and feeling stuck in your insurance career
Jason Harris, CEO, International at QBE Insurance, shares wisdom on overcoming failure and feeling stuck:
- Responding to failure constructively is crucial. Use setbacks as learning opportunities to grow and innovate.
- Identify supportive individuals in your network whom you can turn to for guidance and encouragement. Learning from mistakes is part of the journey.
- Take time to reflect on challenges. Engage in conversations with trusted colleagues to gain new perspectives and insights.
Remember, failure is not the end but a stepping stone toward success!
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.
View over 250 job opportunities in the Insurance industry now: https://icanapply.uk/jobs
Follow us on LinkedIn or sign up as a member to stay up to date upcoming events https://www.i-can.me/become-a-member-2 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ican-me/
Follow our iCAN Apply LinkedIn to see more career tips and featured jobs from our corporate sponsors https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ican-apply/
To find your next mentor or mentee sign up to our self-service mentoring platform iCAN INspire platform https://www.i-can.me/about-inspire
To see more about iCAN, our sponsors and our three initiatives https://www.i-can.me/
Alternatively, if you are looking for career advice and support, or you cannot find a particular role feel free to contact us and a member of the team will respond.