Entries by Tori Snoddy

Embracing Change: Transitioning from a Law Firm to a Career in Insurance

Embracing Change: Transitioning from a Law Firm to a Career in Insurance

Jamie Carsey

Managing Director, Claims – Legal and Head of Litigation

Markel

People do not stay in one job forever these days: over the course of a professional career, it is common to seek new opportunities and explore diverse fields. However, I really believed I was the exception. I have wanted to be a lawyer my entire life. What I was going to be when I grew up was never in question. It was a dream come true when I landed at a fantastic civil litigation firm, where I eventually became an equity partner. I loved my law firm life and never thought about leaving it.

But, as they say, “never say never,” because out of the blue, an opportunity emerged for me to take an in-house role with an insurance company. Surprising everyone, including myself, I took it. It turned out to be a great decision for me.

Flexing your mental muscles

There are numerous reasons for lawyers to consider transitioning to a job in insurance.

For one thing, I started to realize that my skillset was not exclusively bound to the legal domain. As you move up in a law firm, you inevitably start getting more “business” or “law firm management” responsibilities. A lot of lawyers hate this; it is way outside of their comfort zone.

However, I found that after I joined the insurance industry, I started tapping into a business side of myself I did not know was in there. Abilities in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, negotiation, and problem-solving are highly valuable in most industries, including insurance. I could not ignore the part of me that wanted to flex my business solutions and leadership muscles beyond the law firm environment.

Similarly, as lawyers, our expertise can start to become a bit niche. Working at my former law firm, I would frequently get a crash course in the underlying matters at issue in the lawsuit—things like the chemical makeup of good versus bad coal; how levee systems work; or the structural integrity of a bridge or skyscraper. My focus, however, was necessarily on the legal aspects.

In insurance, by contrast, you can broaden your interests and expertise to whatever you are passionate about, and your scope is much more likely to be far-reaching. Some people may not think insurance is cutting edge or exciting, but that’s not the case. Insurance is the backbone of our economy. Without insurance, people and businesses wouldn’t be able to take risks. If you read the major headlines of what is going on in the world on any given day—overseas wars, natural disasters, financial crises, or even a big pile up on your local highway—you can be confident that insurance is involved, and that insurance professionals are at the forefront. 

Enjoying greater work-life balance

Another reason attorneys might want to consider transitioning to an insurance role is work-life balance. It is no secret that law firm life is demanding: many movies feature plotlines on how hard one has to work to rise through the ranks. Now, this was not a factor for me when I decided to leave the law firm: I was very happy there, and dare I say, I didn’t really have a lot of “mom guilt.” But once I transitioned into my in-house role, I realized I was missing out on more at home than I had thought. As a trial lawyer, you do not control your schedule; your cases do. You always tell your family that you can go on that vacation …  unless you are in trial. You will say you can definitely do that hiking trip with your friends from college … unless you are in trial.

When you work in-house, you can just say yes. That is pretty nice. Moving to an in-house role can also free up one’s time to explore personal interests outside of work. It gave me the bandwidth to foster and adopt our second child.

Advancing at your own pace

Along similar lines, insurance also affords professionals the opportunity to set their own pace for career advancement. Law firms can be pressure cookers that thrive on stress. Combining that intense environment with the commonly shared “up or out” mentality—meaning advance up the ladder or potentially be fired—is not every lawyer’s cup of tea.  The insurance industry, by contrast, offers opportunities to use one’s legal and non-legal skills in a less-stressful, more-stable environment with numerous, wide-ranging growth opportunities. The insurance industry offers a range of career paths, from underwriting and claims management to risk analysis and actuarial science. Professionals can explore various roles and find one that best aligns with their skills and interests; and they can advance at their own pace.

Speaking of advancement, I have definitely noticed that lawyers who transition to insurance can have very fulfilling careers. The skillsets for law and insurance certainly complement one another. Lawyers make good insurance professionals because both tend to be client centric. Also, insurance professionals deal with complex risk assessment and mitigation strategies daily. Legal expertise can therefore be instrumental in navigating intricate policy issues and crafting innovative solutions for clients. Even the more nuanced side of your legal knowledge can be leveraged in an insurance role, including contract drafting and negotiation, application of regulations, claim advocacy, risk assessment, and problem solving.

Conclusion: Consider broadening your horizons

Switching from law to insurance was a big step for me, but it has been immensely rewarding. Insurance is a dynamic industry that offers potential for growth and fulfillment. If you are a legal professional considering new opportunities, give the insurance industry another look. It provides a welcoming space to leverage your skills, make a difference in clients’ lives, and embrace fresh challenges. It has been a great experience for me.

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Meet the Strategic Planning Board: Douglas Bird

Hey there, curious minds! Step into the world of RISE’s Strategic Planning Board, where strategy meets personality. These movers and shakers are the architects behind our big-picture goals, collaborating with our leadership and Advisory Board. But this isn’t your typical spotlight series—it’s a backstage pass to uncovering what drives them beyond the boardroom. Think aspirations, hobbies, and what keeps them jazzed about the future of RISE. This series isn’t just about their roles; it’s about weaving together the stories of high achievers who are crafting a roadmap for RISE’s success. So, grab a seat and get ready to dive into the personalities shaping RISE, one interview at a time.

Q: What is one piece of advice for young professionals in the insurance industry?

A: Keep grinding. The insurance industry is growing and there are a lot of folks retiring, this leaves a large void for those who want to grow and climb in their careers to do so – all it takes is hard work and time.

Q: Are you a sports fan? What’s your favorite team?

A: I am a huge fan of The Braves, Steelers, and the defending 2x National Champions, The University of Georgia Bulldawgs! Go Dawgs!

Q: What do you find motivating?

A: Helping others grow. Every day I seem to learn something new about insurance. I love passing this information along to help others learn and develop.

Q: Do you collect anything?

A: I keep all of my old concert ticket stubs. Each time I add one to the box I get reminded of the many awesome concerts I have been to throughout my life.

Q: What’s the most exciting part of your job?

A: Negotiating resolutions of complex coverage situations.

Q: What is something you know now that you wish you knew when you started in the insurance industry?

A: There are thousands of different jobs/roles in the insurance industry. Each role provides valuable experience and insight that can help in seemingly different roles. You don’t have to stay in one job family your whole career. In fact, you become more valuable the more hats you have worn!

Q: Share a fun fact about yourself!

A: During college I earned my Private Pilot’s License in addition to completing two Bachelor’s Degrees courses my senior year.

Q: What inspired you to join RISE?

A: I was nominated for and won the RISE award a few years ago. Prior to that I didn’t have knowledge of the program. The more I learned about RISE, the more I was drawn to it.

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Meet the Strategic Planning Board: Faith Mason

Hey there, curious minds! Step into the world of RISE’s Strategic Planning Board, where strategy meets personality. These movers and shakers are the architects behind our big-picture goals, collaborating with our leadership and Advisory Board. But this isn’t your typical spotlight series—it’s a backstage pass to uncovering what drives them beyond the boardroom. Think aspirations, hobbies, and what keeps them jazzed about the future of RISE. This series isn’t just about their roles; it’s about weaving together the stories of high achievers who are crafting a roadmap for RISE’s success. So, grab a seat and get ready to dive into the personalities shaping RISE, one interview at a time.

Q: What is one piece of advice for young professionals in the insurance industry?

A: One piece of advice is hard because success is not a single event, success is a lifetime professional journey. The thing that has stood out to me the most has been developing a smart, strong, and supportive network and this network should include but is not limited to a mentor – someone who can coach you up and teach you things, a sponsor – someone who has access to rooms you don’t even know exist and is willing to speak of your talents, a peer – someone who is going through the trenches with similar goals and aspirations, and a mentee – someone you are guiding along the way so there are more people like you in whatever rooms you enter.

Q: Are you a sports fan? What’s your favorite team?

A: I’m a casual sports fan. As a resident and proud Philadelphian, I am obligated to say I support The Sixers and The Eagles. If I had to chose between the two I would say The Sixers because I prefer Basketball to Football.

Q: What do you find motivating?

A: Hmmmm, I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t motivated and if that is the case I have to say that my parents have been my strongest motivators. I am my mother’s child and my father’s daughter. More than my parents I am the village that supports me (aunts, uncles, sister, brother, friends and chosen family) and I want to make them proud. So there’s always a fire inside me pushing me to represent not only myself but them.

Q: Do you collect anything?

A: I would say no, unless experiences count. I’m more an experience something with people vs a material possession person. Don’t get me wrong, I like nice things but I value a great conversation or learning something new with family and friends over a physical object.

Q: What’s the most exciting part of your job?

A: I’m a problem solver. So the thing that keeps me coming back to my job is figuring out the puzzle of things or improving how things are done so not only are folks working smarter but also better serving our customers. Insurance, at it’s core, is really a people business and if what we do does not solve peoples’ problems or resolve pressing issues, why are we doing it? I also think I gravitate to the idea of the safety net, and that is honestly how I see insurance. Instead of the person you can always count on, it’s a system that we should always be able to tap into when something doesn’t go as planned. And that system should work properly without unnecessary barriers. I like to think of myself as a barrier breaker and that gets me excited to continue because there’s always a new barrier to break.

Q: What is something you know now that you wish you knew when you started in the insurance industry?

A: I wish I knew that it’s ok to not know something. It doesn’t make you look bad or hinder you from succeeding. The best leaders surround themselves with the best and the brightest because they recognize they alone will not have all the answers.

Q: Share a fun fact about yourself!

A: As a young kid I was obsessed with cowboy boots. I made my mom get me a pair and I wore them with everything…and I mean everything LOL. There’s definitely a Christmas morning picture of me as a young kid in a nightgown and cowboy boots pretending to play a guitar.

Q: What inspired you to join RISE?

A: The community and collaboration amongst the RISE network is second to none; aligning with RISE has allowed me new avenues to expand my own knowledge of the insurance industry and meet great people along the way.

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Meet the Strategic Planning Board: Taylor Jones

Hey there, curious minds! Step into the world of RISE’s Strategic Planning Board, where strategy meets personality. These movers and shakers are the architects behind our big-picture goals, collaborating with our leadership and Advisory Board. But this isn’t your typical spotlight series—it’s a backstage pass to uncovering what drives them beyond the boardroom. Think aspirations, hobbies, and what keeps them jazzed about the future of RISE. This series isn’t just about their roles; it’s about weaving together the stories of high achievers who are crafting a roadmap for RISE’s success. So, grab a seat and get ready to dive into the personalities shaping RISE, one interview at a time.

Q: What is one piece of advice for young professionals in the insurance industry?

A: Say yes – to meetings, to opportunities, to attending events and serving in any capacity. Say yes, and good things will happen!

Q: Are you a sports fan? What’s your favorite team?

A: Always rooting for the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas Jayhawks (my alma mater!)

Q: What do you find motivating?

A: Hearing success stories from clients and candidates about our matchmaking process. Recruiting isn’t always easy, but it can be life changing when you find the perfect pairing.

Q: Do you collect anything?

A: Passport stamps! I always say I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.

Q: What’s the most exciting part of your job?

A: Hearing from all sides of our insurance community on best practices, challenges, what they enjoy, and how we can help them. I also love visiting new places for conferences and events, meeting people from all across the country, and serving on boards and organizations with missions I align with. Oh – and working with my team here at Questpro – they are just wonderful human beings.

Q: What inspired you to join RISE?

A: The community and collaboration amongst the RISE network is second to none; aligning with RISE has allowed me new avenues to expand my own knowledge of the insurance industry and meet great people along the way.

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Building Success Brick by Brick: L&D’s Supportive Role in Organizations

Courtney Brace

Learning & Development Manager at AmTrust Financial Services, Inc.

Meet Courtney Brace, a visionary Manager of Learning & Development and former Instructional Designer. In her compelling journey, she reveals how Learning & Development has evolved far beyond mandatory compliance training. Discover how Courtney’s expertise transforms the organizational landscape, equipping employees and leaders for unparalleled success. Brace yourself for a captivating exploration of the transformative role L&D plays in shaping careers and propelling organizations forward.

When people think of learning and development within an organization, most of the time they picture mandatory compliance training. But I’m here to tell you there is much more to it than that! Over the years, the Learning & Development department has become a strategic partner to the business. We are here to help move the organization forward and equip employees and leaders to succeed.

As a Manager of Learning & Development and in my previous role as an Instructional Designer, I have seen the impact we have made. Insurance is an ever evolving and fast paced industry, and a lot of people will tell you that they learned what they know on the job from their peers or leaders. We take that internal knowledge and experience and combine it with industry standards to create streamlined learning programs for all employees within the organization. This includes programs such as new employee orientation and onboarding, role-specific technical training for all levels, and career and leadership development.

Learning & Development partners with the business to identify gaps that training could fill or opportunities where learning programs can take us to the next level of service. Once we identify the gaps or opportunities, we work with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to develop the content and determine the appropriate delivery and metrics to measure our success. Outside of the normal instructor-led training and online learning courses you are familiar with, we create:

  • Engaging and interactive workshops where learners can immediately apply what they’ve learned.
  • Animated videos that walk learners through processes and scenarios that they may encounter.
  • Visually appealing infographics that outline best practices.
  • Short microlearning bursts that help learners recall topics several months after the program.
  • Learning and talent frameworks that support growth within the organization.
  • And so much more!

At AmTrust, one of the most pivotal programs that we have put in place is our Claims Associate Onboarding Program. Prior to this program, there was no formal onboarding process for new Claims Adjusters. The Learning & Development department worked with SMEs throughout Claims to create a comprehensive program to set new hires up for success in their role. It features engaging workshops, interactive online courses, scenario-based learning and on-the-job training opportunities. After implementing the Claims Associate Onboarding Program in 2022, 92% of participants stayed with AmTrust and 76% of participants were promoted within nine months All of which is a true testament to the impact a well-executed learning program can have on employees.

We have taken great strides to transition from simply developing training to more of a learning and performance support partner to the business. I hope this helps you see the benefit that a great Learning & Development team can be to an organization.

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Unlocking the Potential of ChatGPT and other Large Language Models

Large language models, such as Chat GPT, have emerged as powerful tools with vast potential across various industries. In a recent webinar, industry experts explored the capabilities, risks, and implications of these models. This blog post highlights key takeaways, from the benefits and challenges to risk mitigation strategies and ethical considerations.

Capabilities and Applications:

Large language models, like Chat GPT, process vast amounts of information, enabling human-like responses. They find applications in insurance, healthcare, customer service, and beyond. These models possess the ability to understand context, generate text, and answer complex questions. Their capabilities have significant implications for enhancing customer experiences, improving decision-making processes, and streamlining operations in various sectors.

Risks and Challenges:

One of the primary challenges associated with large language models is the phenomenon of hallucinations. Hallucinations occur when the model generates responses that sound plausible but are factually incorrect. This poses a significant risk, as users may unknowingly rely on misleading information. Understanding the potential for hallucinations is crucial in mitigating their impact and ensuring responsible usage.

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

To address the risks associated with hallucinations, the webinar emphasized the importance of implementing checks and balances. Users must acquire the necessary skills to prompt the model accurately, minimizing the chances of receiving false information. Additionally, exploring the configuration of the models and leveraging the expertise of data scientists can enhance their capabilities and provide better control over the risks associated with hallucinations.

Practical Use Cases:

Large language models have demonstrated their value in practical use cases such as claims settlement. Their ability to process and analyze large volumes of data quickly has resulted in significant improvements in efficiency. For instance, Lemonade’s record-setting claim settlement time of two seconds showcased the potential of these models. Additionally, the interpretation of policy documents and providing human-like responses to legal queries are other areas where large language models have proven their practicality.

Education and Adaptation:

As large language models continue to evolve, professionals across various fields must stay updated with technological advancements. The ever-changing landscape of job roles requires individuals to adapt and develop foundational knowledge in tandem with these technologies. Investing in education and resources that empower individuals with the skills to navigate and interact with large language models responsibly is crucial. Promoting digital literacy, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning are essential components of this educational effort.

Ethical Considerations:

The responsible use of large language models requires a thoughtful approach that considers various ethical dimensions. Issues like bias, privacy, and consent must be taken into account during the development and deployment of these models. Incorporating ethical considerations ensures that the outcomes are fair, unbiased, and aligned with societal values.

Transparency and Trust:

Transparency plays a vital role in the responsible usage of large language models. Users should have a clear understanding of the limitations and potential pitfalls of these models. Providing explanations and insights into how the models arrive at their responses can build trust and enable users to make more informed decisions.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

Large language models have a wide-reaching impact that extends beyond individual sectors. The webinar emphasized the significance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers. Open dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration can help address the challenges and maximize the benefits of large language models across various domains.

Research and Development:

Continual advancements in model architectures, training methodologies, and fine-tuning techniques are essential to improve the robustness and reliability of large language models. Ongoing research and development efforts are necessary to address the issue of hallucinations and enhance the overall performance of these models.

Regulatory Frameworks and Standards:

As large language models become more pervasive in society, it becomes crucial to establish regulatory frameworks and standards to govern their use. These frameworks aim to ensure responsible usage, protect against misuse, and provide accountability. Guidelines and safeguards can help address potential ethical concerns, mitigate risks, and foster public trust in the technology.

Large language models offer tremendous opportunities and advancements in our industry, but they also present challenges and risks. Understanding these risks, implementing effective risk mitigation strategies, and fostering responsible usage are key to harnessing the full potential of these models while minimizing their liabilities. Collaboration, transparency, ethics, education, research, and regulatory frameworks are essential elements in shaping the future of large language models and maximizing their positive impact on society. By embracing these principles, organizations and individuals can navigate the evolving landscape of technology and leverage large language models for the betterment of humanity.

Watch the webinar on the RISE YouTube channel:

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When Fate Meets Passion: Choosing Insurance

At RISE, we believe in the power of personal stories to inspire and educate. We’re bringing you a blog post from one of our contributors, Elisa Swanson, as she shares her unique journey into the world of actuarial science and her unexpected love affair with the insurance industry. With a passion for numbers and a yearning for a career that aligned with her vision of success, Elisa’s story highlights the serendipitous moments and conscious choices that led her to embrace actuarial science and, in turn, be chosen by the insurance industry. Join us as we dive into Elisa’s narrative, where her unwavering determination, the guidance of her high school counselor, and a touch of fate collided to shape her path.

Elisa Swanson

Actuarial Analysis at Berkley Healthcare

A lot of people ask me how I chose what I do. 15-year-old Elisa worried more about finding something she could do for the rest of her life and be happy with it than she did about prom dates or turning in her homework on time. I wanted more than anything to have my whole life planned out so I could start living it. Even at 24, I know how impossible that task was, but a past me was engulfed with it. My high school counselor actually handed me a career book on one of our numerous conversations about the topic. Thank goodness, actuarial science starts with A.

I’m kidding, but he did really give me a copy of “A to Z of careers and jobs”. He also sent me home with a printed copy of Maryville University’s web page on actuarial science. It was like fate had emailed him that day asking if he knew any students interested in actuarial science.

I’ve always loved math (said no one ever, except me). I love that numbers spoke to me and that you know whether or not you were right. I like that there was some kind of art to a really long complicated equation. But I also fantasized of blazers and fun office stationery and corporate life; my mom had lots of photos from when she worked in corporate America and I always saw myself in one of her old pant suits, taking on the world. Actuarial science combined my passion with my vision of me as an adult; plus, as a high schooler in too many extracurriculars and AP classes, I read that actuaries have a low stress job and that appealed to me.

While I did choose to be an actuary, the insurance industry chose me. Over 60% of actuaries work in the insurance industry. While the vast majority of the rest of them work in the finance. From my first class, insurance and actuaries were put in the same sentence. We learned about the different aspects of insurance, the big insurance companies in St. Louis came to visit us, the actuarial science career fair was all insurance companies. So, like salmon in the spring, I followed the path that was carved for me and when I graduated, I joined the insurance industry and didn’t look back. What I didn’t know was that I’d fall in love with insurance.

Elisa’s journey into actuarial science and her subsequent love for the insurance industry serve as a testament to the unpredictable yet beautiful nature of career paths. From her early aspirations of having her entire life planned out to the fortuitous guidance she received from her high school counselor, Elisa’s story highlights the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities and embracing the intersections of passion and practicality. As she followed the carved path of insurance and actuarial science, Elisa discovered a profession that not only satisfied her love for mathematics but also fulfilled her vision of corporate life. Through her experiences, Elisa reminds us that our paths may be influenced by external factors, but it is our own curiosity, dedication, and willingness to adapt that truly shape our journey.

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RISE Welcomes Desiree Bennett as New Program Manager

Why did you decide to join RISE?

I was drawn to RISE due to its impressive dedication to supporting and empowering young professionals in the insurance industry, coupled with its departure from the traditional company model. RISE prioritizes investing in and nurturing individual talent, recognizing that as software gradually replaces human labor, future companies will resemble agile, results-oriented teams rather than large organizations confined to cubicles.

What truly impressed me about RISE is its proactive approach in addressing the current talent crisis in the insurance field. I’ve attended countless round table discussions that merely acknowledged the talent crisis in the insurance industry without taking real action. RISE has wholeheartedly embraced the challenge. They rolled up their sleeves, offering scholarships, implementing a mentorship program, and providing numerous other resources to actively develop the younger generation.

I believe that investing in the growth and development of young professionals is not only crucial for their long-term success but also vital for the overall advancement of the entire insurance industry. RISE’s mission resonates perfectly with my own career aspirations, as I am deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of aspiring professionals. By joining RISE, I am confident that I can contribute to the company’s mission while simultaneously realizing my own professional goals.

What are you excited about?

I am thrilled about the opportunities that RISE provides to young professionals. Being involved in organizing impactful events, engaging the community, and facilitating educational programs genuinely excites me. Witnessing the growth and success of young professionals as they benefit from RISE’s initiatives is something I am truly looking forward to. Additionally, I am eager to contribute to the development and expansion of RISE’s offerings through utilizing my skills, ensuring that we continually meet the evolving needs of our wonderful community. 

The RISE team has created an environment where I feel a strong sense of belonging and my voice is truly valued and can’t wait to see all the great things we accomplish together.

Your role is Program Manager. What’s your vision for the future of RISE?

As the Program Manager at RISE, my vision for the future of our organization is to establish RISE as the number one platform for young professionals in the insurance industry. I see RISE as a force that empowers and equips young professionals with the knowledge, skills, and networks they need to soar in their careers.

In the coming years, I aim to help expand and enhance our program offerings, ensuring they remain relevant, engaging, and tailored to the evolving needs of our members. I see a future where RISE becomes synonymous with excellence in professional development, where young professionals turn to us as their go-to resource for industry insights, mentorship, internship opportunities, and educational courses. We will continue to illuminate the insurance industry and expose the younger generation to the abundant opportunities available at their fingertips. 

Do you have a mentor or someone you want to mention who has helped shape your career?

I am fortunate enough to have had the guidance and mentorship of many individuals who have played a significant role in shaping my career. One person I would love to mention is Ebony Little. Her experience, expertise, and genuine interest in my growth have been influential in my development. The invaluable words of wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support she has shared with me have been instrumental in navigating the diverse challenges I’ve encountered throughout my career. Her genuine care for those around her is unparalleled, earning her the nickname of my “work mom.” I am deeply grateful for her mentorship, as it has had a profound and transformative influence on my journey thus far.

Who should join RISE and how does someone get involved?

Don’t let all the talk about young professionals fool you, RISE is for any and everyone in the industry! Whether you’re a recent graduate, a student, or someone who is experienced and looking to help others transition into the field, RISE provides a valuable platform to gain knowledge, network with industry experts, and access internship or mentorship opportunities. Getting involved with RISE is simple. Interested individuals can visit our website and explore our various committees or reach out to our team directly to explore the various options and programs available. The relationships you cultivate through RISE will prove to be immensely rewarding, making your journey with us truly worthwhile. 💙💙💙

 

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Pride in the Spotlight

Welcome to our Pride month edition of spotlight interviews, where we proudly highlight the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ professionals in the insurance industry. We had the privilege of sitting down with these remarkable individuals to delve into their personal journeys, insights, and perspectives. They graciously answered a series of thought-provoking questions, shedding light on their career paths, challenges faced, and the positive shifts they have witnessed within the industry. Join us as we celebrate their accomplishments, share their wisdom, and champion a more inclusive future.

Emily Clark

Staff Accountant at Falvey Insurance Group

Lynda Karalla

Manager - Human Resources Consulting and Recruiting at Amerisure

TiJuan Robinson

Associate Quality Review Tech at Liberty Mutual

Has it been difficult to bring your authentic self to work while working in the insurance industry?

I did struggle with my journey previous to finding a home in the insurance industry. I did receive numerous discriminations in other fields I worked previously but found a home at Falvey Insurance Group. Not only am I accepted here but more importantly, I am supported here. I have also found interactions with other companies to be very welcoming and truly celebrate diversity and inclusion.

At times, I have felt apprehensive about sharing my whole self at work.  I worry that I won’t be invited to have a seat at the table, that my voice will be discounted, or that my thoughts and ideas won’t be taken seriously.  I have experienced this and I have watched it happen to others around me. 

 

After a lot of reflection and reading on the topic of vulnerability, I have decided that I want to work with teams that embrace authentic connections, and to be part of a group that openly shares their wins, successes, struggles, fears, and mistakes while creating a safe space for others to do the same.  This openness creates an atmosphere of trust, empathy and collaboration where team members feel comfortable taking risks, expressing ideas and seeking support.  Vulnerability inspires compassion and understanding, and breaks down barriers between individuals while encouraging a culture of acceptance and inclusivity.  I feel very fortunate to have found my team at Amerisure that fully embraces this.  An intentional focus can not only build stronger relationships, but can also empower others to reach their full potential; leading to greater innovation, resilience, and success.

I cannot speak for the entire insurance industry. But working for Liberty Mutual has been a place where I can be my true self. It past jobs I have never revealed that I was transgender. This has been the first job where I felt seen.

In what ways has the insurance industry moved closer to diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion?

In the short time I have been in the industry, I have personally seen growth. I believe that between so much civil unrest within so many different communities that companies have started to take a strong stance on the issues and I believe see the benefits of a more diverse workforce. I also contributing this to great organizations like RISE, DAIP, APIW, and many others standing up and showing the importance DEI and spotlighting companies that are working toward a better future. This in turn pushes employees to work for better companies that have similar values.

Again, within Liberty Mutual I have seen women, and people of color being promoted. There are so many Employee resource groups and people that you can reach out to. We also celebrate all cultures, ethnicities, and sexes. Even in our quoting system we acknowledge non-binary individuals. Our health insurance insure gender affirming care. The company pays for surrogacy for same sex couples. There are so many different things.

What advice would you give your younger self beginning your career in insurance? What prepared you to be in the role/position you currently occupy?

I would tell myself that insurance isn’t what you think it is. It is actually a challenging industry with so much growth opportunity. It is also full of amazing people doing positive things in this world. As an accountant in my company, owning a couple of businesses prior helped me a great deal. I was able to learn so much of the accounting field while learning to grow great relationships with my clients.

Find a company with values that align with yours.  When your values and beliefs are shared and practiced by the organization you work for, you are more likely to feel a strong connection to your work and find meaning in what you do. 

Learn as much as you can! You can never stop learning. Reach out to people in roles that you desire. Increase your education. Take advantage of tuition reimbursement.

Do you see yourself represented in your peers and/or leaders in the insurance industry?  

At this time, I do not. I don’t blame the insurance industry directly as I have seen so much positivity in my experiences. I just think companies need to do a little better job of showing what the insurance industry has to offer and extend the so-called olive branch to the community. I am personally, with my DEI committee, will be attending Pride on Sat June 17th to do our part to show the community a safe and accepting industry.  I would love to share this space with my transgender and gender nonconforming family. I do hope other companies find ways to reach out to my community more so they can see just how great it is.

When I joined the insurance industry in 2016, I did not see myself represented among my peers or leaders.  Over the past 7.5 years, I have seen that shift in a positive way.  Because there has been increase in groups, like RISE, who are being intentional in focusing on inclusion and belonging, I believe more LGBTQ+ people are feeling safer being their authentic selves.

 

While feeling unrepresented at work can be a struggle, there is immense value in being seen and heard.  I am grateful to have worked with teams where my thoughts, ideas, and perspectives are acknowledged and given a platform.  For me, it has fostered a sense of validation and inclusion.  Even though I don’t always find individuals who share my exact background, I feel my voice has been recognized and respected.  This allows me to contribute in meaningful ways.  It also empowers me to be able to share the narrative, challenge biases, and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique contributions of each individual.

With only 2 years under my belt, I am a leader within the ERG. But I have yet to be a leader within the insurance industry. But stay tuned. That 5 year plan is already ahead of schedule!!

We extend our deepest gratitude to each interviewee for their courage and vulnerability in sharing their authentic selves. In a world where it is not always safe or easy to live one’s truth, their openness is truly inspiring. Their stories and experiences contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the importance of creating safe spaces and fostering acceptance for all individuals, showcasing resilience, authenticity, and the transformative power of diversity. 

RISE stands as a proud ally, committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where the LGBTQ+ community can thrive and flourish in their careers. It is encouraging to witness the positive strides the industry is taking towards diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion, however, we recognize that there is still a lot of work to be done for the entire industry to fully embrace diversity. Together, we strive to foster an environment that celebrates and values the unique contributions of every individual, promoting a future where inclusivity is the foundation of the insurance industry and beyond.

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Top 5 Benefits of Being in Insurance

Introducing Elisa Swanson’s insights on the insurance industry and its exciting possibilities! In her thoughtful exploration, Elisa shares five key tips that shed light on the abundant opportunities within this booming field. Join Elisa as she delves into the world of insurance, unveiling its dynamic nature, meaningful work, and boundless potential for personal and professional growth.

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Elisa Swanson
Actuarial Analyst

Berkley Healthcare

  1. Entry-level positions – the industry is booming and that means there are plenty of jobs, especially entry level jobs. It’s like the doors to the industry are busted wide open and it’s accepting anyone that’s up for the job. I’ve found that in insurance, people from every background have stumbled into the industry. You studied psychology in college? Great, you have a deeper understanding of human behavior that could be utilized in underwriting. You were a nurse? Perfect, our claims team gets plenty of medical reports and your expertise will be invaluable in assessing them accurately. Did you work in retail? Fantastic, your customer service skills will set you apart in handling client inquiries and building relationships. The diversity of backgrounds brings fresh perspectives and contributes to the dynamic growth of the industry. 
  2. Flexibility – According to McKinsey & Company, 3/4s of the time spent on tasks in the finance and insurance industries can be done remotely. Meaning, through the pandemic, insurance companies were still productive and, therefore, companies are more open to hybrid and remote roles. I, myself, work three days in office and two days at home, but if I am waiting for a package or my dog gets sick, I can work from home and continue doing my job.
  3. Diversity – I’ve met people in every step of their career and people from all around the world. Insurance is a global industry. In fact, when I was an intern, I had the opportunity to work with people from Spain, Australia, and Canada. Because the industry is diverse, I’ve found that D&I initiatives are well-thought out and have ample support. As a American-born Chinese, it’s nice to see people that look like me and as a woman, it’s empowering to see female leaders support young women.
  4. Your job today doesn’t have to be your job tomorrow – there are so many different roles of insurance. I’m an actuarial analyst, but even in analyst roles, there are operations analysts, claims analysts, business analysts, and data analysts. Insurance is a data driven industry; being a math lover, it speaks to me. Your career in insurance isn’t linear. There are people that starts in claims and end in leadership or people that start in operations and end in claims. There are actuaries that end up in recruiting. The future is limitless and you could be at the same company!
  5. The work you do matters – I know the industry has a bad reputation. The big bad insurance, but insurance wraps the world in safety. It is everywhere you look. The doctor you went to see for your broken bone? She has insurance. The car you drove to work in? It has insurance. The house you sleep in? It has insurance. Insurance gives the world peace of mind. It ensures even in the face of catastrophe, someone isn’t left out on a limb.

Elisa Swanson’s valuable insights on the insurance industry shed light on its vibrant and ever-evolving nature. From the abundance of entry-level positions to the flexibility of remote work, the industry offers a wealth of opportunities for professionals at all stages of their careers. The industry’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion, coupled with its myriad of roles and career paths, ensures that individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to its success. Most importantly, Elisa reminds us that the work done in insurance matters, as it provides essential protection and peace of mind to individuals and communities worldwide.

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