Creating an impactful resumé is essential for standing out in the competitive insurance industry. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, understanding what employers are looking for in an insurance resumé can significantly enhance your job prospects.
In this article, we’ll provide you with actionable tips and recent statistics to help you craft a resumé that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements effectively.
1. Start with a Strong Summary
Your resumé summary is your elevator pitch. This brief section should encapsulate your career highlights and clearly convey what sets you apart from other candidates. Ensure that your summary is tailored to the specific role you’re applying for:
- Years of Experience: “With over 10 years in the insurance industry…”
- Areas of Expertise: “…specialising in risk assessment and client relationship management…”
- Professional Goals: “…seeking to leverage my expertise to drive business growth and customer satisfaction in a senior role.”
According to surveys, most hiring managers spend less than a minute reviewing a resumé (some as little as just 7 seconds!), making a compelling summary even more critical.
2. Emphasise Relevant Skills
The skills section should reflect both soft and hard skills pertinent to the insurance industry:
- Soft Skills: Communication, client relationship management, problem-solving.
- Hard Skills: Risk assessment, CRM proficiency, policy underwriting.
A report from LinkedIn noted that 57% of leaders say soft skills are more important than hard skills, yet hiring managers are having difficulty finding candidates with the right mix of both.
3. Highlight Professional Experience
Present your job roles in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Each entry should include:
- Job Title and Company: “Senior Insurance Agent, XYZ Insurance Ltd.”
- Duration: “June 2018 – Present”
- Key Responsibilities and Achievements:
- “Increased sales by 20% in 2022 through targeted client acquisition strategies.”
- “Managed a portfolio of over 150 clients, with a retention rate of 95%.”
Use action verbs to start each point and quantify your achievements whenever possible. Quantifying your achievements can make your resumé 40% more impactful.
4. Education and Certifications
List your educational qualifications and any relevant certifications:
- Degree: “Bachelor of Science in Finance, University of Dublin, 2010”
- Certifications: “Certified Risk Manager (CRM), Chartered Insurance Institute (CII)”
If you’re a recent graduate, consider adding relevant coursework or projects. For seasoned professionals, focus more on certifications and professional development activities.
5. Tailor Your Insurance Resumé for Each Role
Customising your resumé for each job application is crucial. According to a CareerBuilder survey, 61% of hiring managers prefer a resumé tailored to the specific job description.
- Match Skills: Highlight skills that match the job requirements.
- Use Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job listing.
6. Formatting and Readability
Ensure your resumé is visually appealing and easy to read:
- Consistent Formatting: Use a uniform font, size, and spacing.
- Clear Section Headings: Use bold or underlined headings for sections like “Summary,” “Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.”
- Bullet Points: Break text into bullet points for readability.
According to a study by The Ladders, recruiters spend an average of 7.4 seconds on an initial resumé review, making clear formatting essential.
Create an Insurance Resumé that stands out to potential employers
By following these best practices, you can create a resumé that stands out to potential employers in the insurance industry. Remember, your resumé is a living document that should evolve with your career. Keep it updated with your most recent accomplishments and tailored to each job application.
Unlock Your Potential with 360 Search: Speak to Our Experts Today!
Are you ready to take the next step in your insurance career? At 360 Search, we specialise in connecting talented professionals with top opportunities in the insurance sector. Book a free consultation with one of our experts to discuss your career progression, resumé tips, and job opportunities tailored just for you. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your career—contact us today!
