Whether you are new to the insurance industry or a veteran with many years of experience, you will likely hear some version of this question in your first-round interview. While it seems like a simple question, it provides a glimpse into your character, skills, and suitability for the role. In the fast-paced and ever-evolving insurance industry, nailing this response can significantly improve your chances of landing the job.
Join me as I share tips on crafting an impactful answer that will leave a lasting impression on any insurance interviewer.
1. If you are new to insurance, research the insurance industry before you do your first interview:
Before diving into your initial screening interview, make sure you do your homework ahead of time so that you can demonstrate a good understanding of the insurance industry. Familiarize yourself with the key terms and duties required for the role you are applying for, such as strong analytical skills, keen attention to detail, adaptability, or empathy. This research will help you align your strengths to the specific needs of the insurance industry, demonstrating your genuine interest and commitment. Then you will be ready to answer the strengths question thoughtfully and will be able to link your experience in a more cohesive manner.
2. Focus on Relevant Strengths:
If you are new to insurance, take the time to reflect on your professional experiences and identify strengths that directly relate to the responsibilities and challenges faced by insurance professionals. Consider qualities like exceptional communication, problem-solving abilities, negotiations skills, or the ability to analyze complex data. If you are an experienced insurance professional, give quantitative specific examples that show your mastery of the role you are applying for.
3. Provide Concrete Examples:
Remember that vague or general statements will not differentiate you from other candidates. Instead, support your answer with specific examples of times when you utilized your strength successfully in an insurance-related scenario. For instance, if your greatest strength is attention to detail, talk about a situation where your meticulousness unearthed a crucial policy discrepancy, saving your team from potential legal repercussions. Concrete examples offer tangible evidence of your abilities and create a lasting impact on the interviewer.
4. Showcase Adaptability:
Adaptability is a highly valued trait in the insurance industry, given its volatile nature. To stand out, mention how your strength contributes to your ability to navigate changing landscapes, swiftly adapt to market shifts, and embrace new technologies or regulations. Emphasize that your strength enables you to proactively handle unexpected challenges, ensuring you maintain a competitive edge in an evolving insurance market.
5. Demonstrate Collaborative Skills:
Insurance is inherently a team-driven industry. Highlight a strength that showcases your ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Share an example where your penchant for collaboration improved communication, reduced customer complaints, or fostered a positive work environment. Illustrating your team-oriented mindset demonstrates your potential value to the organization and your ability to achieve goals collectively.
In an insurance interview, effectively answering the question about your greatest strength requires careful preparation, industry knowledge, and specific examples. By aligning your strength to the needs of the insurance industry and providing tangible evidence of your abilities, you can convey your potential to excel in the role. Remember, a well-crafted response will not only impress the interviewer but also increase your chances of securing the job and embarking on a successful career in the dynamic insurance sector.
If you are actively looking for a new insurance role now and would like some help with interview questions, I can help. Contact me and let’s set up a call to discuss the types of roles you are looking for.
