We caught up with Graduate Trainee Broker Elliot to give you an insight into the world of insurance and find out why he chose this particular career path. Read the full story below to discover where a career in Insurance can take you.
The Chartered Insurance Institute is the professional body with over 125,000 members for people that work in Insurance and Financial Planning. Our internationally recognised qualifications enable graduates to work within the profession, have career progression and develop professionally. What’s more, our members can attend numerous networking events nationally.
Why did you choose a job in this profession?
I knew I wanted to work in The City but, having graduated with a Sport and Exercise Science degree and diverted from a career in teaching, I wasn’t sure which profession to pursue. I hadn’t even considered a career in insurance until after I graduated, partly because the London insurance market is a hidden gem that not many students and graduates know about. I was also attracted by the opportunity to travel and the fact that a career in insurance can be financially rewarding whilst maintaining a good work-life balance relative to other financial sectors.
How did you get your job? What was the application process like - any advice?
I got my job at THB Group on their Graduate Programme. Like most graduate schemes, the application process consisted of several stages that tested your soft skills and knowledge of the Company and insurance industry. The preliminary stages included an online application, a telephone interview and numerical/verbal reasoning tests. The final round was an assessment day which consisted of a written exercise, a group task, interviews and a presentation.
What does your Graduate Programme look like?
The Graduate Programme at is an 18-month rotational programme which gives a well-rounded introduction to the insurance industry by providing:
- an induction programme that will give you the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed
- exposure to different parts of the business
- a short term external underwriting placement
- an appreciation of the roles of the central operations, claims and technician teams
- relevant workshops through the in-house THB Learning and Development initiative
- a mentor and buddy who provide advice and support throughout the scheme
- an active network of colleagues and resources
- support towards achieving ACII accreditation (Chartered Insurance Institute qualification)
Is it a 9-5 job?
My set hours of work are 9-5 and I typically stick to these, however certain periods of the year are busier than others therefore I work longer if need be. That being said, my company understand the need for a work/life balance so if a shorter working day is ever a must then they are flexible with this as long as I have completed my work.
What skills are useful in this profession?
The insurance industry is all about building and maintaining relationships with people from a variety of backgrounds. Being able to build a rapport with clients whilst negotiating business can be one of the biggest challenges so it is imperative for individuals to have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
If, like Elliot you are nearing the end of your studies and still unsure about the career for you, sign up to free discover membership and discover where a career in insurance could take you!