The automotive insurance industry has much to offer those who are seeking career opportunities. There are many facets to the business to fit almost any personality style. The job market looks promising as well as insurance companies have been able to weather the recent economic downturn fairly well. With state regulations making auto insurance a requirement for motorists in many states, jobs in this industry should remain in place for a very long time.
Automobile Insurance Agent
If you like dealing with people, becoming an agent may be a good route. Agents are active marketers for the insurance companies that they represent. A good agent is very customer service oriented and is often available to answer the questions of customers throughout the process of signing them up for new business as well as being there when disaster strikes. Many agents develop long-term relationships with customers and their families over many years. The insurance company often pays insurance agents on commission, so for those willing to work hard and bring lots of new business, there is money to be made.
Automobile Insurance Underwriter
An underwriter traditionally is the person willing to sign their name under the name of the insured risk, indicating that the underwriter has placed their faith in that insured. That process is long outdated, but the basic function of an underwriter remains the same. Their job is to evaluate insured drivers to determine whether or not that driver presents too much of a risk to an insurance company. An underwriter will also be in charge of determining how much to charge a particular customer. Underwriters generally do not deal directly with insured customers, but they will often have direct contact with the agents that bring new business to them for consideration.
Automobile Damage Appraiser
If you have an interest in automobiles, this job may be of interest to you. An automobile damage appraiser is a person that physically inspects damaged vehicles and determines what the cost should be to make the repairs. Automobile damage appraisers travel a lot, visiting collision shops, as well as individuals to view the damage to their car. An appraiser will often have to deal directly with an insured, but they will also have to deal with claimants who have been involved in an accident caused by someone else. Automobile damage appraisers have to be licensed in most states. Good negotiation skills are necessary for an automobile damage appraiser, as they will often have to reach an agreement with a collision shop as to the cost of a repair.
Automobile Claims Adjuster
There are many facets to the job of an automobile claims adjuster. This person is charged with the task of determining how an accident happened and who is at fault. This involves investigating and interviewing drivers and witnesses. It may also involve discussions with police officers to determine the full facts. Adjusters have to deal with everyone that may have been involved in an accident. Another job of an automobile claims adjuster is to determine the amount of damages for a claim both in terms of repairs and in terms of injuries. Dealings with attorneys are a regular occurrence, and many automobile claims adjusters become involved in hearings and litigation. Automobile claims adjusters need to have some knowledge of legal issues, and must have good organization skills and good negotiating skills.
As long as people continue to drive, the need for automobile insurance will exist. Fortunately, the insurance industry employs thousands of people across the country and many of these jobs are difficult to outsource to foreign countries, making the auto insurance industry a good choice for a career.
AIG have a dedicated careers page. AIG careers is worth a look for openings for the above positions
