Insurance Recruitment

Whether looking for entry or professional level careers, short or long term assignments, job seekers and employers are relying on insurance employment firms to help with their needs.  Employers have moved to using personnel companies due partly because of the increased regulations imposed on employers, but also because of the other benefits they offer.  These employment agencies take on the burden of conducting interviews, tests, background checks, and pre-employment drug screenings.  Interviews are generally scheduled and consist of a series of questions that focus on work history, educational background, goals/aspirations, interests, and personal preferences.  Employers often have specific needs and guidelines for applicants to meet, so interview questions are personalized for each employer.  The majority of all insurance companies are looking for hardworking and enthusiastic leaders who are flexible and possess excellent communication skills.  Common interviews may include the following questions:

1. Have you helped to increase sales/profitability in your past positions? How?
2. Are you a leader? Please explain and/or give examples?
3. What do you feel is the most/least important aspect of your current/previous position?
4. What do you consider to be ideal working conditions?
5. Do you feel you are overqualified for this position?  Why not?

After completing the interview, many employment agencies conduct assessments pertaining to the available position.  Common tests will cover a candidate’s customer service skills and/or personality.  Occasionally, tests over how applicants would handle specific situations are administered to determine his or her degree of professionalism.

There are three different types of employment agencies available, each offering specific benefits to candidates and employers.  Candidates who have never been employed in the insurance industry but have entry level skills will commonly choose the option to work with insurance temporary services, especially if they are unsure of what area they would like to specialize in.  These short term assignments allow candidates to gain experience in the insurance industry while gaining an income.  Insurance companies that are experiencing uncommon or seasonal increases in business, or have full time employees absent due to medical or maternity leave, will pursue these employment firms to cover any additional workload.  Candidates who possess experience in the insurance industry and are looking for permanent placement should turn to insurance staffing or professional insurance employment services.  Employers with needs for mid-level employees are also able to utilize insurance staffing firms.  The positions these organizations offer generally include a 30-90 day probationary period in which they are able to see how a company/candidate performs before hiring employees on as full time staff.  Insurance recruiters offer advanced level professionals to employers seeking experienced associates.  These positions are often direct hire and highly competitive.  Candidates desire the positions offered by recruitment firms due to the increased pay upon entry and the ability to start the position immediately.  Employment agencies are designed to help any organization or individual at any stage in their profession.  For more information on insurance recruitment, please visit the following sites:

• Texas Tech Research  
• Advisor Team
• Brookes

For an alternative to recruiting services, please visit iHireInsurance, an online insurance job board.