The Dual Journey: Navigating a Job Search in the Insurance Industry While Employed

The Dual Journey: Navigating a Job Search in the Insurance Industry While Employed

Embarking on a job search while currently employed in the insurance industry requires careful navigation. Whether you're an underwriter, claims specialist, actuary, product manager, risk manager, or in any other role, seeking new opportunities while maintaining confidentiality is crucial. The key is not to alert your current employer.

Before you do anything, my best advice is to make sure you actually want to make a job change. You have to know your motivation for changing jobs, and it has to be real. Is it money? 

Go ask for more if you like your job (now is a great time). Is it your friends who all have remote jobs, and that is what you want? See if your company may be working on a work-from-home/hybrid model. Don't feel like your career is going anywhere. Take your manager out for coffee and ask them to help script your future. The grass isn't always greener, and working with your current employer is an option that should not be ignored.

How do you look for a new job while currently employed in the insurance industry?  

• Confidentiality is King: Keep your job search confidential by being discreet with your activities. Limit discussions about your job search to trusted individuals outside your workplace. Avoid sharing your intentions on social media or in public forums. Whatever you do, don't use your company email address or any work computer or cell phone.
• Utilize personal time effectively: Make the most of your personal time for job search activities. Schedule informational interviews, networking events, and job applications during lunch breaks, after work hours, or on weekends. Be mindful not to let it interfere with your current job responsibilities.
• Enhance your online presence: Update your LinkedIn profile to showcase your insurance industry experience, skills, and accomplishments. Engage in insurance-related groups or forums to expand your network discreetly and stay updated on industry trends and job opportunities. If your LinkedIn profile needs a complete remake, do it in phases so no one notices!
• Passive job searching: Consider passive job searching techniques, such as signing up for job alerts on reputable insurance job boards (like GreatInsuranceJobs.com) or subscribing to industry newsletters. This allows you to passively explore potential opportunities without actively applying for jobs.
• Utilize an insurance industry executive recruiter: Search firms have jobs not found anywhere else. Use firms like InsuranceStaffing.com or access many recruiters via the number one insurance recruiting association InsuranceRecruiters.com.
• Be cautious with references: Inform potential employers about the need for confidentiality, requesting that they do not contact your current employer until you have secured an offer. Provide alternative references, if possible, from former employers.
• Ask former coworkers for help: People change jobs a lot. Anyone you have ever worked with (go back five years) may be the best way to find a new job while you work. Reach out and ask them if their company is hiring, and if so, see if they can help get you an interview. Most insurance companies have employee referral programs that current employees get paid well to refer you. This is an excellent way to find a new job.  
• Take a PTO day for interviews: If you have an interview, take the day off instead of scheduling the fake "doctor's appointment". It will allow you to dress well, get prepared and not worry about what people may be thinking in the office.   

Remember, honesty and integrity are essential throughout the job search process. Respect your current employer by continuing to perform your duties to the best of your ability and providing appropriate notice when you secure a new job offer.