As an insurance recruiter, my employer clients expect me to check references as part of my recruiting service, so I always ask my candidates for a list of references that know their insurance work “firsthand”.  I ask for email, phone, and the business relationship.  I am always suspicious of references that do not include any former managers or leadership and are only coworkers or friends.

References can be a bit tricky. If you are employed, you want to make sure that you do not jeopardize your current role. If your firm sold or you lost contact with your old boss over the past couple of years, it can be difficult to provide direct hiring manager contact info.  I also strongly recommend using personal emails and cell phone numbers rather than corporate info which can be tracked through CRM software to allow your references to speak privately on your behalf.

So, who should be on your reference list?

Here’s my top five reference sources in order of preference and impact.

1. Direct supervisors, trainers, or company leadership:
References from your former Supervisor, Team Trainer, or Branch Leadership are typically the most valuable and credible ones you can provide. These firsthand references demonstrate your ability to perform effectively in your role, and the employer can gain insight into your work ethic, leadership skills, and professional accomplishments. Make sure that you provide their personal phone and email and contact them ahead of time to give them a heads-up about the role you are interviewing for so that they can frame their answers to support the new job you are seeking.  Talking to a reference who doesn’t remember who you are or who can’t recall your contributions can quickly eliminate your chances of being hired so do your reference homework ahead of time!

2. Colleague or peer from a past agency or carrier:
A reference from a colleague or peer can be a valuable addition, especially if they have worked closely with you on accounts or projects or observed your interaction with clients. This reference can provide valuable insight into your communication skills, teamwork abilities, and overall professional demeanor. If you have collaborated on successful insurance policies or managed challenging client portfolios together, their endorsement will reinforce your suitability for the account manager position. Underwriters and Carrier Marketing Reps who know your submission quality/accuracy can also be a good reference provided they are people that your future employer would know and respect.

3. Client testimonials:
In the insurance industry, client relationships are crucial. Demonstrating your ability to foster and maintain strong client connections can be a game-changer during the hiring process. Consider providing references in the form of client testimonials or letters of recommendation. Testimonials from satisfied clients highlighting your ability to understand their unique insurance needs, provide exceptional service, and exceed expectations can provide a great deal of credibility and build trust with your prospective employer.

4. Professional insurance-related associations:
Providing references from respected professional associations within the insurance industry can further strengthen your application. Recommending individuals within these associations who have worked closely with you or have witnessed your contributions can attest to your commitment to your field, your passion for staying up-to-date with industry trends, and your eagerness to embrace new challenges. These references showcase your willingness to network, learn, and engage actively within your professional community.

5. Insurance academic references:
If you recently completed an insurance-related degree or certification program, including academic references can illustrate your commitment to continual growth and learning. Professors or instructors who can vouch for your skills, knowledge, and dedication to the field can provide unique insights into your ability to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios.  This can be helpful for junior level candidates as it shows you are willing to put in the extra work to accelerate your insurance career and skills.

Remember, your references should highlight your expertise in insurance-related roles that tie in closely with the new job you are applying for.  If you are newer to the industry, make sure your references can speak to transferable skills such as account management, outstanding client relationships, leadership skills, and ability to learn/retain new info quickly. Providing the right references will set you apart from other candidates.

If you are thinking about changing insurance jobs this year, I can help.  Contact me, and let’s set up a good interview strategy to help you land your next career role!