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Getting started in an insurance career isn’t terribly hard as you really only need a few very basic skills to get a job and function well at the basic entry level. There are some positions that will require a college degree; however, most of the positions especially when you’re getting started at the entry level simply require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Before applying for a job in insurance you’ll need basic to intermediate computer skills; such as, approximately 30wpm (words per minute) though this can differ by the insurance company, basic computer software knowledge, possible knowledge of Microsoft Office, etc… Every insurance company will provide training on their specific software and you’ll find that most insurance companies will be running some kind of personalized software. Also many will run a program called Lotus Notes for their email; no worries as you’ll receive training for this software as well.

Entry Level Positions

Almost all of your entry level positions are going to be found in either customer service or claims. Getting a position in claims can lead to other moves in the company; such as, subrogation. Subrogation is the insurance terminology for collections. Those that begin in customer service will likely find themselves moving up from the automobile and home claims to injury claims as well as claims that are in litigation.  If you move into claims adjusting you’ll likely need a license. If you wish to move to a position in sales you do need to obtain an insurance license.

There is no end all, be all routes to where you want to move to. Some people will move to underwriting from a position in claims processing in the customer service department and others differently. If you put in your time and show the dedication most all insurance companies are going to show the same back to you in terms of career advancement.

Future or College Positions

One of the careers in the insurance field that is very in demand right now is that of a fraud investigator. A claims adjuster that is seasoned enough is a move that could be mad to a fraud investigator; however, you will find that in most cases they will require or at least prefer a college education.

A career in underwriting is more likely to require a degree than that of a claims adjuster; however, if you’re making a move within the company rather than a direct applicant you’re more likely to get consideration and possibly the position.

The one other option for an underwriter career without insurance knowledge and a college degree is that for an underwriter assistants position which would require no more than a high school degree. Most high school graduates will find this is the perfect place to start. With a lot of hard work and dedication you’ll find that you’ll get a promotion to an underwriter. One thing to keep in mind is that like salespersons’ underwriters need to have an insurance license and maintain their continuing educational requirements to keep their license.

One more note about underwriters. The underwriter must have a very professional demeanor and amazing organizational skills. The underwriter must communicate with both insurance agents and claims representatives in order to secure accurate information and be able to maintain a friendly working relationship.

As an underwriter you can advance into positions like actuarial science or risk management; however college degrees will be required for these positions before you’re able to do so.

Insurance Agency

Besides just an insurance company an insurance agency is another good place to find an insurance career. Rather than an insurance agent you’ll be becoming an insurance broker. The insurance broker is pretty much an insurance agent with the exception of working with multiple insurance companies in order to obtain their clients the best possible quote. Insurance agents work for just one company and quote and sell only that companies policies.

If you’re going to work as a producer (selling policies) you’ll need to be licensed in the state you’re doing business in.