Entries by Tori Snoddy

Women’s History Month 2023 Spotlight

Carolyn Develle

Director, Client Service – South Central Region at Liberty Mutual Insurance

Devina Williams

AVP, Litigation at AmTrust Financial Services, Inc.

Jonelle McDaniel

Sr. Consultant at Aon

How would you describe your leadership style? Do you see it as different from your male counterparts?

Carolyn: I think my team would tell you that I lead with collaboration, influence and accountability. Through much of my career, I have been placed in roles where my success was based on driving results through others by influence and thought leadership vs. direct oversight. I found those roles to be incredibly  rewarding by helping me become a better leader by appreciating people’s differences in thought and motivation and learning how to bring people together through their differences for a common purpose and goal. Holding myself accountable was also key in my leadership development – being able to   admit you can improve also inspires others not to fear humility and the benefit of continuous learning and self-improvement. As a woman, I do see that I bring a different leadership tone than my male counterparts. I tend to lean into listening first in order to understand cues including verbal and non-verbal   communication from those around me prior to voicing my opinion or giving direction. Although I hesitate to generalize, I think many of my male counterparts equate a louder, quicker voice with more input and control.

Devina: My current leadership style is servant leadership and I focus on creating relationships with my colleagues, senior leadership, and my teams. In my role, I am tasked to grow and scale my teams, so servant leadership is a style that meets my objectives. I concentrate on the collective, and “atmosphere,” promoting engagement, process improvement, development and closing skill gaps. Perhaps due to historical or traditional socialization of leaders as all-knowing or command-control; however, it is hard to say because every person has a unique leadership style.

Jonelle: I take a collaborative approach to leadership. Whatever the mission, we cannot get there alone. When team members have a voice in the process, the results are simply better in my experience.  According to the research, men and women do lead differently. Women have inherent leadership qualities and tend to lead from a relationship building perspective more often than men.

How do you bring your authentic self to the workplace? How has that changed throughout your career?

Caroyln: I bring my authentic self to work by smiling through what I can’t impact or change. My younger self would have tirelessly thought about why something couldn’t be changed or why something was the way it was. I learned throughout the years to relish in what I can impact and work around or thru the rest. The mental energy I freed up by focusing on making an impact and keeping a constructive list of things that could be changed made me a happier, more fulfilled person but also positively influenced the attitudes of my team and those around me.

 

Devina: I practice “thought work” to insure I am extracting and considering only the “#facts” from a situation or interaction and not create my own boundaries by internalizing communications. Precise introspection and acceptance of yourself is the key to being authentic. Authenticity is a journey because our identity and our capacity for expression evolves over time (i.e., Instagram!). When my motivation changes, I redefine my authentic self. Over the years, I have a realized that absolute conformity will not permit me to practice authenticity.

 

Jonelle: Trying to figure out who we are as a young adult is challenging enough but also trying to find your identity in this industry can be challenging. Honestly, it took me some time to learn to trust myself and to trust that my experience and perspective is valid. As I’ve grown in my career, my confidence to show up as myself grew and that has led to more opportunities that align with my skills and interests.

What advice would you give to women who are just starting their careers in the insurance industry?

Carolyn: There are no stupid questions. You will never stop learning new things. Insurance was not a career I was looking for when I graduated from college. I intended on going to law school and ultimately turned down an opportunity to attend law school because I found my career, the insurance industry and the company I worked for to be dynamic and offer an abundance of opportunity for personal and career growth. Invest in yourself – both in education as well as personal wellness. Determine what you want, where you want to go but leave room to develop yourself in your personal life too. Many of us get lost in our jobs or getting to the next level – establishing boundaries and self-enrichment will give you a balance that will ultimately take your further in your career. Lastly, trust in your career journey. I had a path in my head when I first started that thankfully did not materialize. I am happier because of the jobs I didn’t get as it led to me to where I am now.

 

Devina: My advice is to seek advice! My goals and successes have been a result of my network. Second, relative to insurance, be nimble and explore because “insurance” has so many facets. Therefore, a network is important; create relationships across the enterprise and seek opportunity.

 

Jonelle: Do not be intimidated by the industry. There are organizations that are actively seeking your talent and want to invest in your growth. The industry is not just one thing, there are many paths and areas to focus on. Make connections and stay in contact with those connections, share what you know and always find ways to add value.

We know that many people have no idea how dynamic and interesting the insurance industry can be. What would you say to a young woman to “sell” them on a pursuing a career in the insurance industry?

Carolyn: A career in insurance means you get a look into the world around you that is broader and more interesting. Insurance has given me the ability to interact with people, companies, and industries I never thought possible. I have learned more about how interconnected we are and the why’s behind many things we encounter every day. I also think that being able to say that you help others lead safer, more secure and successful companies is an incredible thing. We’re not just pricing and selling a product, we’re building partnerships and relationships.

 

Devina: The insurance industry allows you to transition and transcend and “re-invent” yourself many times over. It is a suitable career for those with almost any experience or educational background. I practiced law and shifted my career to insurance claims where I have navigated roles as a leader and individual contributor. Insurance is an industry where upskilling is fostered. As a defense attorney, I never imagined consulting anyone regarding personal lines insurance and risk management and then return to litigation. The insurance industry provides for growth and mobility.

Jonelle: When I graduated college and accepted my first job in claims, I had no idea that this journey would take me so many places. I’ve had opportunities to learn, travel and build relationships with clients and colleagues across the country. This industry is dynamic and ever changing. With change, there is always opportunity, you just have to prepare for it.

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2023 RISE Award Winners Announced!

RISE announces the 2023 35 Under 35 RISE Award winners and Mentor of the Year & LEAD Award finalists!

The Annual RISE Awards recognizes top rising talent in the insurance industry. Every year we receive dozens of nominations of deserving young professionals who are making an impact in their company, community, and the industry as a whole. To be eligible, nominees must work in the insurance industry and be under 35 years of age.

Alvis Dunlap Jr.

Account Development Representative at Guidewire Software

Amanda Jensen

Director of Marketing and Branding at North American Risk Services

Bailey Harr

Supervisor, Mid-Fleet Underwriting at Canal Insurance Company

Ben Rathbun

President at The Rathbun Agency

Brendon De Souza

Managing Attorney at Sanderson Firm PLLC

Briana Allen

Casualty Broker at McGill and Partners

Bryan Ginsberg

Director of Growth at Hi Marley

Cameron Alford

Manager, Insurance at CSL Behring

Christopher Dunnells

Human Resources Supervisor at DunbarMonroe, PLLC

Christopher Hynes

SIU Field Supervisor at Concord Group Insurance

Christopher Cutrer

Attorney at GEICO

Daniel Avila

Territory Distribution Leader, Florida at AIG

Douglas "DJ" Gargano

Senior Claims Examiner at Harford Mutual Insurance Group

Dragana Iveljic

Senior Claims Manager at Branch

Elizabeth Latournes

Actuary at CapSpecialty

Glenn Scheideler

Head of Claims Insights and Analytics at Beazley Group

James Feiner

AVP Middle Market Zone Manager at Sompo International

Jillian Rogers

Superintendent Casualty Claims at The Cincinnati Insurance Companies

Joey Broms

Commercial Account Executive at Baer Insurance Services, Inc.

Kaylee Drulias

VP, Member Advocates and Advisors at PURE Insurance

Khalid Brammer-Blackman

Vice President, Retail Excess Casualty Construction Lead at Arch Insurance Group

Kristin Cuff

Product Manager at Hamilton Insurance Group

Kyle Matthews

Account Executive Officer - Commercial Accounts at Travelers

Laura Kurrle

Compliance Specialist at Harford Mutual Insurance Group

Lindsay Tanner

Auto Unit Leader at Westfield Insurance

Margaux Koutros

Senior Product Consultant at FRISS

Marie White

Operation's Manager at The Auto Club Group, Inc.

Marina McMains

Claims Administration Director at Farm Bureau Financial Services

Pam Goerlich-Findlay

Sr Product Manager, Commercial Transactional Insurance at RLI

Peter Kidd

VP of Insurance & Compliance at Leap Insurance Agency / Leap Guaranty Ltd.

Rachel Presant

Senior Operations & Training Manager at Bindable

Sarah LaWall

Business Development Manager at Gallagher Bassett

Silvia Diaz-Roa

Co-Founder & COO at ClaimDeck

Victoria Dinh

Director of Risk Management at Anschutz Entertainment Group, Inc. (AEG)

Will Lehman

Global Director of Risk Management at Cook Group Incorporated

LEAD Award Finalists

Carlton Maner

CEO, AXIS Wholesale at AXIS Capital

Emily Clark

Accountant at Falvey Insurance Group

Kristy Sands

VP, Strategic Communications at Gallagher Bassett

Nic Gaither

Unit Manager - Claims at Amerisure

LEAD stands for Leadership in Equity and Diversity- the LEAD Award inspires a more diverse and inclusive culture in the Insurance Industry by celebrating those who are leading the way.

Mentor of the Year Finalists

Awais Farooq

SVP, Strategy & Transformation at Crawford & Co

Brittany Graman

Learning & Development Specialist at Gibson Insurance

George Pavarini

VP, Work Comp & Liability at Amerisure

Steve Wang

Divisional Manager at Mercury Insurance

Mentor of the Year is awarded to an outstanding mentor who has made a difference to the next generation. The winner will be announced June 1st at the RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

2023 Leadership Summit & Award Gala

Join us on May 23-24 in Fort Lauderdale, FL for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala- featuring interactive leadership training, top-tier networking, and a proper celebration for the best in the insurance industry, our 35 Under 35 Winners.

Attendees will learn through fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and interactive workshops, and network with attendees from over 150 companies over two days. 

View event details 

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Black History Month 2023 Spotlight

Andrea Cordy

Senior Training Specialist

Liberty Mutual Insurance

Dayne Thornicroft

SVP, Claims – Metrics | Analytics | IT

Arch Insurance Group

Ebony Little

National Program Director

National African American Insurance

Association

Shani Wright, MBA, CWCL

Branch Manager

Gallagher Bassett

What advice would you give your younger self starting out in the insurance industry?

Andrea: I would advise my younger self to begin with the end in mind.  I would tell my younger self that the first role gets you in the door.  Of course, challenge yourself to be the best at the job, but at the same time, view the role as an opportunity to determine if the company and that particular assignment are a good fit for you.  Companies, organizations, departments, and teams all have unique visions and cultures.  I have found that it is a much more fulfilling experience to work in an organization that is aligned with your values.  I would advise my younger self to not be afraid to take ownership of your career and investigate other options if you find a role is not a good fit for you.  Learn from the experiences that each role offers and allow those experiences to inform how you not only search for the next role but also the questions you ask when you interview for the next role.

Dayne: The first thing I would tell myself is that there is no better time in your life to take risks. This can be in the form of working on a large and impactful project or working at an insuretech startup. You likely have much less weighing you down and far more time to recover if the risk doesn’t pan out.

I would also tell myself to alter my mindset around what my career should look like. I’ve had many tell me that your career is not like a ladder, but more like a lattice and they were correct. There have been roles I’ve taken that were lateral in nature or had seemingly little to do with the role I had prior, but gave me the foundational experience I needed to be a well-rounded leader today. Focus your career on learning, development, making an impact and getting exposure for that impact and the compensation will follow. Don’t be tempted to compare yourself to your peers. We are all on our own path and the only person you should be comparing yourself to is your prior self.

Ebony:

  1. It’s alright to be choosy about the “company you keep.” Representation is and should be important in your decision making. Do your research about the companies that are of interest to you and look at the leadership team. Does it in some part look like and or represent you? What are the core values of the company? Do they align with your values and the professional development you aspire to have?
  2. Work on your professional development incrementally and build and nurture solid relationships that can propel you forward and you progress in your career.
  1. Allyship and mentorship are integral to your career. Both do not have to reside in the company you work in. They can exist outside of your organization. Find yourself a mentor early on. Look for and join groups that offer a safe space to be your most authentic self and network with like-minded individuals in the industry. If there isn’t a current one, don’t be afraid to START one! Be the change you want to see.

Shani: I would tell my younger self to learn the art of networking. It’s the key to creating pathways for opportunity. We must create a circle of peers that support, encourage and will speak our names when we are not in the room. Those individuals don’t necessarily need to look like us either. It’s important that young professionals be open to creating a diverse network within the industry. I would also tell my younger self to be flexible. I believe flexibility allows a young professional to take on a wider range of opportunities that may extend globally. Lastly, I would tell my younger self that you are ENOUGH and deserve to have a seat at the table, never second guess your worth.

If you were starting today, as a young African American professional, would that advice change and if so, how?

Andrea: If I were starting in the industry today, my advice would change only slightly.  I would encourage participation in Employee Resource Groups (as members and/or allies) because involvement in these groups is an organic way to network and to learn more about the organization.  It presents opportunities to engage in conversations with people who work in different parts of the organization and provides you with a topic to initiate the conversation.  The relationships formed through Employee Resource Groups can also assist you in developing professional allies. It can also be a platform to establish relationships with potential mentors and sponsors.

Dayne: Overall, it would not change however I would tell myself to leverage the African American networks and resources available. Many companies now have Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that weren’t around when I started my career that can be great for networking, finding a mentor, taking workshops and building business acumen. Finding a mentor that can help guide and introduce you to people you otherwise may not have had access to is crucial. Leverage professional networks, attend events and conferences to broaden your network. Finally, I would encourage you to pay it forward as you progress in your career and help create opportunities for others as they have done for you.

Ebony: I wouldn’t change the advice. Discovering and owning your value add to a company is empowering and can create areas of opportunity for advancement in the right environment. The items mentioned are part of that path to career advancement.

Shani: The advice would not change. The only thing I would add is to find your niche in the industry. Do something that you are passionate about. Your passion will ultimately lead to your purpose in life. Understand that all work experiences are preparing you for your final career destination. Never take any experience for granted. Invest early in yourself. When you get your first check develop a savings plan that will serve you long-term. 

How has the insurance industry embraced diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion? What challenges still exist?

Andrea: Across the insurance industry, I have seen a positive shift related to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.  Internally, we have Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), various leadership development programs, as well as direct programming to expand employees’ awareness of the company’s DEI goals. These opportunities provide all employees the ability to serve as champions or allies of the company’s DEI initiatives.  The challenge, as I see it, is that we are still finding our footing in what it means to embrace DEI.  There are varying levels of buy-in and participation across the organization.  Considering the focus on DEI is still relatively new, I am hopeful that the industry will continue to not only focus on DEI but help those who are reluctant to understand the value that diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion bring to the industry, to the individual organizations and to all of us who work in the industry.

Dayne: The industry has come a long way in embracing DEI during my career. I think about it in five phases: The first phase was awareness; awareness of lack of representation, diversity and pay equity. Then came the education phase to bring these issues to the forefront by giving individuals a safe platform to share their experiences with one another. Then came the advocacy phase where community groups were created to address lack of diversity, unconscious bias and discrimination in its various forms. Then finally came the action phase, where companies changed hiring practices, promotional practices, addressing pay inequality and making DEI a part of everyone’s goals.

Although the industry has made great progress through these phases, the main challenge that exists today is widening the funnel of diverse candidates. If you ask a college student to depict someone that works in the insurance industry, they will more than likely tell you that they are a Caucasian male wearing a suit holding a briefcase. There is a stigma to overcome that will take all of our efforts to educate the next generation on the opportunities that exist for them in the industry.

Ebony: Companies have embraced DEI by  making public declarations of support for DEI, offering organizational support by appointing DEI officers to deal with company alignment and commitment to  DEI initiatives; DEI strategies have been realigned within established ERGs to meet company and stakeholder needs.

The challenge lies in making sure the employee expectations of the ERGs align with the DEI priorities of the company; create programs that lead the feeling and appearance of inclusion in tandem with actual career advancement (not just the talk of it) for African Americans & People of Color. This is a step in managing the existing gaps in what is said vs what actually done.

Shani: Over the last two years the insurance industry has made great strides in creating a space for diverse individuals to soar in the insurance industry.  The industry is raising awareness that diversity matters. Many companies have created diverse and inclusion committees to make sure all employees feel a sense of belonging.  There are mentorship and leadership programs geared toward investing in talented diverse insurance professionals. Other companies are making an intentional effort to recruit students from HBCUs for internship program and entry level positions. I believe there are still challenges that exist in genuinely creating opportunities for talented professionals to move up into senior leadership roles.  I am committed to making sure that individuals that look like me have opportunities in this industry. My hope is that this is not a moment, but truly a movement that will transform how the insurance industry receives, treats and promotes African Americans in the insurance space.

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Get to Know The Auto Club Group’s Internship Program

Hear from the Interns:

  1. What did you enjoy most about AAA – The Auto Club Group’s internship?

Nathanial: The thing I enjoyed most about this program is the structure of my day to day schedule. I was able to travel this summer and complete many projects for school and other organizations that I’m a part of that I had been putting off during the school year. This has been one of my most productive summers!

This internship is right for you if your summer availability looks like a Swiss cheese and you want to stay involved in other activities you had planned while also gaining skills that are hard to come by anywhere else going into future jobs.

Adrianna: I really loved my internship with the Auto Club group. I’d say my favorite part of the internship are the idea jams. I really love being able to get creative and share ideas that come to mind and collaborate with the rest of the team to come up with some different solutions for our sprints. It was also a great way to grow my technical skills in programming through the projects that we were assigned.

I also really enjoy the team that I get to work with. I think that there are great people and great connections being made and this whole experience is really helping me reach my future career goals.

Courtney: This internship was a perfect opportunity to get my foot in the door and gain that experience before graduation. I was able to work both with general counsel and staff counsel, which really exposed me to such a wide variety of topics. I was able to work on so many different assignments and I feel like this really just gave me a good insight into the work that’s done in this area and how it’s done.

 

  1. What would you tell someone who is considering applying for an internship at AAA – The Auto Club Group?

Nathanial: I’d tell somebody applying for an internship at AAA that you are in for a load of fun and it’s going to be a unique semester. Your coworkers are relaxed, innovation driven, and great people to work with. I built one of a kind friendships with students in my field of study across the nation and it was able to be a part of the growth of a company that has a profound tradition in the United States history.

Elliott: Even though insurance gets a bad rap, there are great insurance companies that care about their customers, and AAA has taught me that level of service that’s required and necessary for having such a great company.

 

  1. What advice would you give someone starting an internship at AAA – The Auto Club Group?

Nathanial: My advice is to embrace AAA as your own. Don’t be afraid to express out of the box ways to increase our memberships and find new opportunities.

Elliott: I would give future interns the advice to ask questions! Ask as many questions as you have, not only about the company but about insurance in general. I’ve learned so much about [insurance] that I would have that I probably never would have known otherwise.

 

Hear from the Company:

  1. What is unique about your internship program?

Our internship program is unique because it provides students with the opportunity to work on inventive projects that tackle real and relevant issues within the industry. Students are encouraged to employ innovative techniques, work collaboratively, and think freely to discover creative solutions. AAA – The Auto Club Group’s internship program pairs each student with a mentor, ensuring that the student grows both in their skills and career readiness. Our program prepares and supports students while they navigate the beginning of their career in the industry.

  1. Tell us about some of the best opportunities/outcomes to come out of your program.

Many former interns have gone on to work for AAA – The Auto Club Group full-time, two of whom are now supervising new interns themselves. This is a testament to the supportive, exciting, and learning centered environment cultivated by our organization.

  1. What resources are available to interns after they complete the program?

Students may join the AAA – The Auto Club Group’s Intern Alumni network on LinkedIn.

  1. Why do/should interns or candidates for other positions choose your company?

To become a part of something bigger.

By continuing to invest in more advanced technology, pursuing innovative products, and hiring a highly skilled workforce, AAA continues to build upon its heritage of providing quality service and helping our members enjoy life’s journey through insurance, travel, financial services, and roadside assistance.

And when you join our team, one of the first things you will notice is that same, whole-hearted, enthusiastic advocacy for each other.

  1. What have you done to promote diversity & inclusion at your organization?

We have positions available for every walk of life! AAA prides itself on creating an inclusive and welcoming environment of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints, as we realize our differences make us stronger. We are proud to have nine Employee Resource Groups where employees can gather around shared identities to support each other and educate others.

  1. Do you have a transition process for intern to full time employee?

Business lines participating in ACG’s Internship Program prepare for their transition depending on where the students are in their course of study. This may include an additional internship, a part-time role while they continue their studies, or full-time opportunities for employment.

 

 



View Full Company Profile

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10 Tips to Help You Nail That Interview

By: Lindsay Huffman, Director of Workers’ Compensation Field Claims at Amerisure

 

 

You researched potential employers, drafted a resume, applied for a position and got an interview!  You are excited to have the opportunity to interview with the company of your dreams, but are nervous about providing the “right” answers to the interviewer.  Job interviews can be anxiety inducing, but they don’t need to be.  After interviewing many candidates over my career, here are 10 interview tips to help you nail that interview. 

 

  1. Research, research, research

The Company

Take time before the interview to research your potential employer on their website.  It will help you to understand the company’s history, mission and culture.  Then perform a simple Google search of the company.  Learn about their reputation in the industry.  Take a look at their social media accounts to see what they message to their followers.  Your research can help to ensure that the company is a good fit for you and will often help you to predict some of the questions you might be asked during the interview.

 

The Interviewer

In addition to researching your potential employer, also do some research on the person with whom you will be interviewing.  LinkedIn is a great place to learn about the interviewers’ career, interests and any connections you might have to that person.  This research will allow you to connect with your interviewer and to ask meaningful questions. It will also allow the interviewer to see that you have viewed their profile, which shows effort on your part. 

 

  1. Review the Job Description and your Resume

Before your interview, review the job description in detail.  Generally, the job description will contain qualifications that your potential employer is looking for in a candidate.  Take notes on how you match up with those qualifications in a bullet point format.  If your experience doesn’t exactly match a qualification, note how your other skills prepare you for the role.  For example, if your potential employer is looking for a candidate with 10 years of experience in the industry and you only have 5, detail how you studied the industry in school, or have read books or attended webinars on the subject.

Also, review your own resume.  It might seem like an unnecessary step, but I have interviewed people who forgot about items listed on their resume.  Look over your job history, education and skills and be prepared to answer questions in detail about each category. 

  1. Be Prepared to Answer Questions about Why you Left Previous Employers

Interviewers and recruiters love to ask potential candidates why they left their previous employer.  Your answer can tell the interviewer a lot about you.  First, provide the main reason why you left/or are leaving your employer.  This can include both personal and professional reasons.  Then try to link the reason why you are leaving to the new position.  For example, you were looking for a leadership position at your current employer and there were no leadership positions available.  Now, you are applying for a new position in a leadership capacity.  Or, you have a two-hour commute at your current employer and the new position you are applying for is remote. 

Be honest about why you left/or are leaving your employer, but make sure that your answer remains professional.  An interview is not the time to bash your current or prior manager or employer. 

  1. Don’t Over Rehearse

It is important to be prepared for you interview, but don’t over rehearse.  Don’t practice so much that your answers sound like you are reading from a script.  Instead of being in the moment during the interview, you will be trying to remember the right answers to the questions.  This can throw off the entire interview.  Instead, ask a friend to role-play a few questions with you and provide feedback on your answers.  This will help you to be confident the day of the interview.

 

  1. Be Prepared the Day of the Interview

The majority of interviews this day and age are performed virtually.  Before the interview begins, make sure that your space is prepared for an interview.  Make sure that your camera, microphone and speakers are functioning.  Turn on your camera and look at what the interviewer can see.  Is your background full of boxes or children’s toys?  If so, just blur your background.  You want your interviewer to concentrate on you, not your background.   Right before the interview begins, make sure that you pets are in another room and that your partner, children or roommates know not to interrupt you during the interview.  If you are taking an interview during your break at your current employer, make sure to turn off any alerts on your computer that will distract you during the interview.  

  1. Arrive Early and Dress Professionally

Whether you are interviewing in person or virtually, make a good impression.  Dress for the position that you want.  Workplaces aren’t as formal as they once were, so a suit likely isn’t necessary, but if you look good, you will feel confident.  Once you are dressed and ready to go, arrive to the interview early.   This will show your interviewer that you are prepared, eager and interested. 

  1. Listen to the Questions

As you are easing into the interview and answering questions, make sure that you listen to the question that you are asked.  You will be excited to tell your interviewer all about yourself and might not be paying attention to the question.  Listen to the question and answer that question before moving on to any other tidbits you would like to share with the interviewer.  Also be cognizant of length of your answer.   If you interview is scheduled for thirty minutes, and it takes you ten minutes to answer one question, you likely won’t be able to share everything you would like to with your interviewer. 

  1. Be Confident and Sell Yourself

This is your time to project confidence.  Whether you feel confident or not, sit up straight, speak clearly and look your interviewer in the eye.  Be aware of your body language.  Don’t cross your arms or slouch.  Your physical posture can help you feel more confident. 

Sell yourself.  Explain to the interviewer why you are the right choice for the position.  Align your skills to the needs of the company.  It is not bragging; it is confidently showing the interviewer that you know your strengths and that you will excel in the position.

  1. Ask Relevant and Insightful Questions

At the end of every interview, you will have the opportunity to ask your interviewer some questions.  Before the interview, come up with one or two questions relevant to the position or employer.  It is important to make sure that the company is the right fit for you, so it is always a good idea to ask about the company culture.   It is also a good idea to ask a question that will allow the interviewer to talk a little bit about themselves.  You could ask them how they got to the position they currently hold.  Or, you could ask my favorite question; What is your favorite on-the-job memory?  This question allows the interviewer to think, smile and tell a story.  You should always end the question portion of the interview asking about the next steps in the hiring process.  This will help to set your expectations as to when you can expect to hear back from the employer. 

  1. Follow-Up with a Thank You Message

After the interview, contact the interviewer and thank them for spending time getting to know you.  Express your continued interest in the position and let them know that you are available to answer any additional questions they may have.  It might seem like a small gesture, but it can make a big impact.  If the employer is deciding between you and another candidate, your thank you message might push you across the finish line.


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RISE Announces Strategic Planning Board to Launch in 2023

RISE is excited to announce the launch of our newly formed Strategic Planning Board in 2023!

The Strategic Planning Board is comprised of RISE members working hand in hand with the leadership team and Advisory Board to create and manage initiatives and execute against our long term goals. The vision for our group is to create a pipeline of high achievers who will guide RISE and contribute to our success.

We are so excited to work with these highly regarded young professionals to help grow, recognize & advance the best young talent in the Insurance Industry!

My name Tania Sanfiel, and I have nine-year tenure at Assurant in Property & Casualty (P&C) claims. At Assurant I currently lead our Renters Claims Operations, Digital Initiatives and Claims Customer Experience. During this time, I have cultivated a comprehensive understanding of the industry, beginning my journey from the grassroots of property claims handling to leadership roles that span claim management and operational performance enhancement.

Throughout my career, I’ve contributed to transformative projects aimed at streamlining and elevating customer experiences. This has involved the implementation of artificial intelligence and machine learning, coupled with business rules, to automate less complex claims for our renters’ product. Additionally, I spearheaded the creation of automated event-driven text messages, expanded digital payment capabilities to include EFT, push to debit, and eCheck, and harnessed tools like Hi Marley to establish an asynchronous channel for adjusters to keep customers informed.

More recently, I’ve been at the forefront of modernizing our legacy systems, particularly as the Claim Center product owner, leading our transition to the cutting-edge Guidewire platform. My journey at Assurant has been marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a commitment to enhancing customer experiences, making me a dedicated contributor to the dynamic landscape of P&C claims.

Tania Sanfiel

Director, P&C Claims, Assurant

Rachel Jenkins is an experienced professional in the insurance industry, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of XN Capital, a startup focused on scaling access to captives and other alternative risk structures. Prior to her role at XN Capital, she worked as the Managing Director of Founder Shield’s client advisory team, where she established herself as a leading customer success professional with over 12 years of experience in the insurance sector. Before that, she spent several years with Marsh, advising on risk management for major financial institutions and insurance companies globally.

Apart from her successful career, Rachel is passionate about mentorship and supporting younger and diverse candidates in the insurtech industry. She finds inspiration in helping others further their careers and is actively involved in mentorship initiatives. Outside of her professional endeavors, Rachel is deeply involved in her family’s non-profit organization, which focuses on rehoming and job placement for homeless and non-violent offenders. This work gives her a strong sense of purpose and allows her to make a positive impact in her community.

Rachel Jenkins

Chief Operating Officer, XN Capital

Pam is an accomplished leader and highly active member of the insurance industry in Central Illinois, soon to be serving as Past President of the largest chapter in the world – Central Illinois. Through her involvement with the local CPCU chapter and RLI Toastmasters club, she has promoted the insurance industry to professionals and young people in the region. Pam also participates in mentoring college students through the U of I Axis Risk Management program. Pam was named on the Rise 35 under 35 list in 2023. Pam holds the CPCU, AINS, and AU designations. She has a degree in Actuarial Science from Bradley University. In her free time she enjoys the outdoors through hiking and gardening.

Pamela Goerlich Findley

Sr Product Manager, RLI

Lael Chappell serves as the Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer at Desq in their New York Office. Lael is responsible for the development, implementation, and management of Desq’s brand and marketing strategy and leads Desq’s pipeline development and solicitation of the industry’s top underwriters to build opportunities on the Desq platform.

Lael received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management & Insurance from the University of Georgia, obtained full alumni status as a graduate of the Program for Leadership Development at Harvard Business School, and has an Executive MBA from the EMBA Global Asia Program jointly conferred by Columbia Business School, London Business, School, and the University of Hong Kong.

Lael Chappell

Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer, Desq

Khalid Brammer-Blackman is the Retail Excess Construction Lead at Arch Insurance Group, where he, alongside a team of underwriters, works on expanding Arch’s business within the retail excess space within the Construction insurance group. With over ten years of insurance experience, Khalid received the RISE 35 under 35 in 2023, which has added to his visibility in the industry. He graduated from Florida State University’s Masters of Risk Management and Insurance and York University (Toronto, Canada) Disaster and Emergency Management programs. He hopes to work with the rest of the strategic board on expanding the RISE brand as an organization, as he firmly believes in the organization’s initiatives.

Khalid Brammer-Blackman

Vice President - Retail Excess Construction Lead, Arch Insurance Group

Ema is a Digital Transformation and Change Management expert with over a decade of corporate training and enterprise software sales experience. She is the Co-Founder of Roloff Consulting, a consulting firm that focuses on helping sales teams transform their process. Ema has conducted over 300 expert interviews in the space of Digital Transformation and Innovation within insurance and beyond. She has been recognized as one of LinkedIn’s Top Voices in Digital Transformation and Sales, a RISE 35 under 35 Award Winner, named in Lightico’s Innovators Top 100, and a ‘Making Waves’ Honoree by InsurTech Hartford.

Ema Roloff

Co-Founder and Principal Consultant, Roloff Consulting

Dr. Claire Muselman is a prominent figure in the workers’ compensation field, known for her innovative and inclusive approach to risk management and insurance. As the founder of CM Advising, she has made a lasting impact by infusing her unique style, characterized by glitter and sparkles, into the industry. Celebrating nearly two decades of experience, she also serves as the Chief Operating Officer of WorkersCompensation.com and has introduced transformative initiatives such as the Workers’ Recovery Unit and the Workers’ Compensation Center of Excellence.

Beyond her professional roles, Dr. Claire is a media influencer, with a history as a podcast co-host, a co-founder of The Transitions, and a mentor through Rising Insurance Star Executives (RISE). She is a prolific writer, contributing to platforms like Bloom, WorkersCompensation.com, and Captive.com. In academia, she shares her expertise as a Professor of Practice at Drake University’s Zimpleman College of Business and Co-Director of the Master of Science in Leadership Development in the School of Education.

Dr. Claire is a strong advocate for gender diversity and inclusivity, serving as an Ambassador for the Alliance of Women in Workers’ Compensation and the Kind Souls Foundation. Her dynamic speaking engagements nationwide reflect her commitment to empathetic and emotionally intelligent leadership. Her ultimate mission is to inspire positive change that transcends industries and encourages others to strive for nothing less than extraordinary.

Dr. Claire Muselman

Professor of Practice in the Zimpleman College of Business & Co-Director of the Master of Science in Leadership program at Drake University; COO at WorkersCompensation.com; Founder at DCM.

Chris Cutrer is a SIU Field Supervisor with GEICO in Columbus, OH.  He has been with GEICO for nearly 8 years and has worked as a claims adjuster and SIU investigator prior to becoming a leader within SIU.  Prior to working in the insurance industry,  Chris worked in law enforcement.  Chris has a bachelor’s degree in Criminology from The Ohio State University.  In his spare time he enjoys lifting weights and participating in Scottish Highland Games.  Chris was a winner of the 2023 RISE awards for 35 under 35.

Chris Cutrer

SIU Field Supervisor, GEICO

After graduating from Clemson University in 2017, I joined Canal Insurance as a Commercial Truck Small Fleet Underwriter. After 2 years, I began Underwriting Large Fleets. Since joining the Large Fleet team I took on a Supervisor position and was recently promoted to Manager which allowed me to take on Operations teams as well as our Fleet Underwriting Team. Developing team members to have strong and technical Underwriting skills as well as improving operational efficiencies is my current focus. I am also working towards my CPCU designation In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors camping and hiking.

Bailey Harr

Fleet Renewal Manager, Canal Insurance Company

Awais is the SVP of Strategy & Transformation at Crawford & Company, driving the future of claims through cutting-edge technology, fostering a dynamic culture, and optimizing operational excellence. With a diverse leadership background spanning front and back-office roles, he has successfully led strategic transformations for claims, IT, and digital insurance solutions at State Farm, Chubb, and Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies. Awais’s impact in the industry is recognized through accolades such as Mentor of the Year and the R.I.S.E.’s ’35 Under 35′ award, showcasing his outstanding contributions to his company, community, and the insurance sector as a whole.

Awais Farooq

SVP, Strategy & Transformation, Crawford & Company

Taylor joined the Risk Management and Insurance industry in 2014 when she began working for Lockton Companies in a client service role. In 2018, Taylor joined Questpro Consultants as their Campus Recruiting Manager where she helped launch their newest division, QGrads, serving to attract college graduates into our industry.

Taylor now serves as the Vice President of Business Development for Questpro, an insurance-specific staffing firm with a national presence. In this role, Taylor oversees new business sales across all service lines, grows relationships with existing accounts, and manages a national sales team based throughout the country. As a member of the University of Texas-Dallas RMI Advisory Council, Taylor also serves as an Associate Member of the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation’s (IICF) Southeast Division Board, as well as a Director with the Dallas Chapter of Young Risk Professionals. Taylor has earned national recognition through earning the Rising Insurance Star Executive (RISE) award in 2021 and earning the Emerging Leader in Insurance Award by APCIA (the American Property Casualty Insurance Association), AM Best, and ICM (the Insurance Careers Movement). Taylor’s role has allowed her the opportunity to collaborate with candidates, companies, and hiring managers across the country and has given her a unique insider view on our industry and the current trends and challenges we all face as we look toward hiring the next phase of insurance professionals.

Taylor Jones

Vice President, Business Development Questpro Consultants

Scott currently serves as Vice President, Strategic Accounts for Ethos. In this role, he partners with clients to develop technology-enabled solutions that help improve operational workflows and reduce expenses. Over the last 7 years, Scott has held several leadership positions, developing and empowering the next generation of leaders in our industry – a professional passion of his. Outside of work, Scott and his wife love to travel and enjoy new experiences with their two children. Scott is a fitness enthusiast and recently completed his first marathon.

 

Scott Francis

Vice President, Strategic Accounts, Ethos

Raisa Lyons

Underwriter, Bass Underwriters

Owie Lei Agbontaen began his career in 2016 and quickly made a splash in the New York and Boston Insurance markets. Now in Chicago, Owie is currently an Assistant Vice President at Sompo International, leading the Business Development efforts in the Midwest. Owie is responsible for supporting all of Sompo’s product offerings in the Upper Central region and expanding Sompo’s footprint in the Midwest. Prior to the business development role, Owie grew Sompo’s Midwest middle market P&C book in the Real Estate, Hospitality, Financial Institutions, and Professional Services verticals from the ground up.

Owie is originally from Brooklyn, NY and graduated from Boston College with a bachelor’s degree in Communications and Marketing, and a minor in African and African American Diaspora Studies. He is currently the Vice Chair and Dir. Of Finance of the newly established Young Risk Professionals’ (YRP) Chicago Chapter, an organization focused on connecting professionals in the risk & Insurance industry through networking, mentoring, and education. Professionally, he has been recognized as a Rising Star and a Hot 100 professional by Insurance Business America and was also awarded a 35 Under 35 Rising stars Award by RISE Professionals.  More recently, Owie was awarded the Emerging Leader Award by NAAIA at their annual conference in October.

Owie Agbontaen

AVP, Business Development Sompo International

Petyah Pierre is an experienced HR/Risk Management Claims Analyst with extensive experience in insurance benefits to include Workers’ Compensation, FMLA, Social Security disability, and Long-Term Medical disability. Petyah has been an employee of The Broward County Sheriff (BSO) for over six years as a Sr. Human Resources Analyst in the Workers’ Compensation section overseeing in excess of 600 open claims. She has an Associate in Risk Management, 6-20 All Lines Adjusters License, and Certified in Workers’ Compensation Litigation.

Petyah is member of National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) Florida Chapter, The Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) South Florida Chapter, RISE Professionals, and actively participates in both The Alliance of Women in Workers’ Compensation along with Dive In, a Global Festival for Diversity and Inclusion in Insurance. She is a freelance writer for BLOOM magazine which covers everything workplace, wellness, industrial health and safety, holistic living, clean beauty, living sustainably, travel environment, and happiness. Her most recent piece is titled “Black Hair in Corporate America.”

Petyah Triche

Assistant Manager - Workers' Compensation, Broward Sheriff's Office

Nicole Velino has been in insurance for 8 years.  Nicole is employed by Falvey Insurance Group and works in the claims division for cargo shipments. She resides in Rhode Island, has one daughter Ava Grace, and loves all things Christmas. Nicole was a 2021 RISE Professional Award Winner and looks forward to being part of the ever- growing insurance industry.

Nicole Velino

Claims Associate Group Lead, Falvey Insurance Group

Mohamad is a multilingual professional with international experience in both project and risk management in the construction field. He has been overseeing all the risk management activities in many local and international multi-billion dollars projects such as Mega 4800 MW Combined Cycle Power Plant, Complex TBM tunnels under the Suez Canal, and huge Metro Lines. He has developed a formal risk management department from scratch in an international construction company after seeing and realizing the need of such approach to a successful completion of projects. He has proven experience in using Monte Carlo Simulation in anticipating project duration, budget and contingency. He co-lead the successful three Guinness World Record Holder largest Water Treatment Plant in the world in the capacity of Assistant Project Manager. He shared the responsibility with the project director as the PMO, interface and coordination manager in the High-Speed Rail Project in Egypt.

Mohamad ElHelaly

Project Management and Construction Internal Audit, Afreximbank

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15 Tips To Excel At Your New Job: Your First Day, Week, And Few Months

By: Daria Zand – Insure National Intern

Just inked your name on a job offer letter? Congratulations!

New beginnings like this can seem daunting-but don’t fret. You can still feel confident and prepared while entering the unknown. And while it’s important to succeed in your new position, it’s also important to thrive in your new environment.

Here’s a guide to help you on navigate the start of your new chapter:

The First Day

First impressions are lasting and difficult to sway. Understand the importance of this and plan accordingly.

1. Test run everything

You can ease your nerves and ensure a smooth start by testing everything you’ll need to do on your first day.

If you’re in person, plan your commute so you will arrive 15-30 minutes early. Waze and Google Maps have helpful features for calculating or planning a drive. If you really want to be prepared, test drive your commute before your first day so you can be familiar with the route, because there’s nothing more unnecessary than missing an exit.

If you’re working from home, test your computer/laptop, especially if your work provides one for you. Test your internet connection, your computer software, and other equipment you’ll need to use for the job the day before or a few hours before you are set to start.

2. Prepare your first day attire

Pick out and try on your outfit the night before you start your job. Your clothing and general appearance communicate a message about you. Make sure you choose a clean outfit that you look and feel confident in!

3. Take notes

You will be exposed to a lot of new and important information on your first day. You will also probably have a lot of questions to ask! Carry a notebook and writing utensil with you to write these things down. While writing notes on your phone is convenient, it can send the wrong message.

4. Be available for lunch plans

Keep your lunch plans open. Lunch is an opportunity to socialize! You may get an invitation from a co-worker or there may be pre-arranged lunch plans. You might feel inclined to invite a co-worker to join you for lunch. While the first day can be overwhelming, try to refrain from excluding yourself. Try to plan to meet with a few coworkers virtually if you work from home!

5. Be attentive

As hard as it may be, keep your attention focused throughout the day. You will experience copious amounts of information being thrown at you on your first day. Be present and act like a sponge- soak up all this information. Check yourself periodically that you’re actively listening and being attentive.

The First Week

You’ve survived the first day, now it’s time to make the most of your first week.

1. Introduce yourself

Brush up on your elevator pitch­- you’re going to need it. An elevator pitch is a short but effective explanation of yourself. Here are a few questions to guide you: Who are you? What do you do? How did you get to where you are? Try to make it appropriate and relevant to your career. And remember- keep your handshakes firm, not your demeanor. A cordial and enthusiastic introduction can go a long way.

As you meet new people during your first week on the job, you’re going to introduce yourself frequently to these people. Others will probably do the same. Try your best to remember the names of the people you meet. You can help your memorization by associating a person with something notable they said (i.e., Julian the baker, Ali from Toronto, Mabel the dog lover).

2. Build rapport

If you’ve memorized the names of your colleagues, you’ve already made the first step towards building a good relationship with them! All jobs require teamwork at some point. When that occasion comes, having pre-established relationships with your teammates will make that process less challenging and more effective. Even when you’re not actively engaging in teamwork, rapport creates a more pleasant work environment. Having peers to rely on when you have questions, need favors, want feedback, etc., and vice versa will be helpful and beneficial for you.

3. Know your role

You know your title, but do you know your role? Speak to your manager to get clarity. Figure out what your role consists of, what your responsibilities and expectations are, how your job performance will be assessed, and what resources you need to do your job well. Establishing this at the very beginning of your career is essential. This will help eliminate unnecessary confusion and wasted effort.

4. Understand the company

Knowing its background, structure, and culture (which includes its personality, mission, and values) will help you comprehend your company’s identity and how your behavior should align with it.

Specifically, many companies have an organizational chart that explains its operating structure. Inquire about the operating structure and ask your manager to explain how it works. Get a sense of how you fit into the big picture and where there are opportunities for growth.

5. Learn your benefits

Sometime during your first week, learn the basics of your benefits. Here are some topics to inquire about:

  • Health, vision, and dental insurance
  • Sick leave, time off, and holidays
  • 401(k) or how to roll your 401(k) from your previous job.
  • Opportunities to get involved (volunteering, team bonding, work-related travel, etc.)

The First Few Months

Hopefully, you’re getting settled in nicely by now. Let’s continue that precious momentum into the next few months.

1. Seek a mentor

After familiarizing yourself with your co-workers, prioritize finding a company veteran who can provide mentorship to you. Seeking someone who once fulfilled your role or fulfills a role that you are interested in would be especially beneficial. Once you’ve found a sufficient individual, humbly and politely ask for their guidance. Clearly discuss their capacity to mentor you and what you hope to learn from them. Ask them to meet with you periodically in the future for development and feedback. Then, profusely thank them if they agree to this feat.

2. Avoid Gossip

Engaging in gossip in the workplace can be tempting, especially if you agree with what’s being said. But refrain from this. Realize that you interact with your coworkers very often, and conflating your relationship with any one of them over an off-handed comment would not be worth the hassle.

If you have an issue with a coworker, approach them or a higher-up with the issue rather than venting your disapproval with your peers. Have a firm stance in deterring gossip for the sake of your company and your integrity.

3. Set boundaries

During your first few months, you will probably say “yes” frequently as you aim to build good relations and make a good impression. Don’t make this a habit. After you’ve got an understanding of your role and responsibilities, and your workload, recognize your abilities and your limits. Prevent yourself from feeling overwhelmed by saying “no” when it’s appropriate.

Divulge with your teammates that you will abide by your work hours and your non-work hours accordingly. Therefore, only check and respond to emails during work hours. This will be a preventative measure against potential burnout. Preserving your well-being is essential for growth and longevity.

4. Assess your progress

After you’ve experienced your first few months on the job, look back at what you’ve done and how you’ve done it, and where there’s room for improvement. To further, ask your manager or mentor for feedback. While it may seem daunting, it will be beneficial to you and will probably please and impress your higher-ups. Have an open mind and don’t take any comments personally. Instead, see it as a good thing that you’re receiving constructive criticism rather than a reprimanding, and see it as an opportunity to grow.

5. Set goals

A great way to foster professional growth is to set goals for yourself. Once you’ve gotten the swing of your role and workload, realistically contemplate goals that you want to and can achieve. Aim for long and short-term goals. Whether it’s to master a certain skill, or grow your network, or achieve a promotion, setting goals may help keep you engaged and motivated.

Create accountability by either sharing your plans with your mentor or teammates and setting specific times to conduct your goals and measuring your progress on them.

The End of the Beginning

As you assimilate into your new workspace, be patient with yourself. Mistakes are inevitable as you find your footing. Don’t fixate on them. It matters more how you respond to them rather than the fact that you’ve made them.

Instead, acknowledge how far you’ve come. Because out of all the potential candidates, you were chosen as the new hire. Believe in yourself and know that your best is yet to come.

 

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