In May the Insurance Industry loves to welcome new faces to the world of insurance! Whether you’re a recent GRADUATE, a SUMMER STUDENT, or someone FRESH to the industry, stepping into the insurance ( or any new career ) world can feel like navigating a maze. As Recruiters, we talk to candidates daily about ways to navigate this exciting career and industry; one of the most common pieces of advice we give is about MAKING CONNECTIONS.
One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is NETWORKING. That word can sound a bit daunting, but think of it more as making friends and exchanging ideas. There is no right way to network within the Insurance Industry, but there are some key areas that many successful Insurance Pros enjoy.
Networking WITHIN Your Own Company
Starting a new job, let alone a new career, can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that some of the best, and easiest, NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES are right under your nose. Getting to know your colleagues and leaders on a personal level can be incredibly rewarding.
Imagine this: You’re waiting for something at the printer or grabbing a coffee in the office kitchen and you strike up a conversation with someone from another department. Over time, these casual chats can lead to DEEPER CONNECTIONS. You might discover shared interests, learn about different roles within the company, and even get the inside scoop on upcoming projects.
Stepping outside of your social comfort zone in the office helps you to BUILD RAPPORT and a POSITIVE REPUTATION. When you know your colleagues, collaboration becomes smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, having a strong internal network can make your work life more fulfilling and less stressful. Your colleagues can offer support, share insights, and might even help you land dream roles later in your career. So, next time there’s a company potluck or a team lunch, take the opportunity to mingle and get to know the people you work with. You never know how these connections will pay dividends in your career.
The Coffee Chat: An Invitation to Career Conversations
Have you noticed someone in the company whose CAREER PATH you admire? Here is how we suggest you ask to ‘pick their brain’ without feeling like a pest – invite them to grab a coffee!
Reaching out for a 30 minute coffee chat is simpler than it seems. Start with a friendly email or mention it while riding the elevator together. Keep it light and genuine. You might say something like, “Hi [Name], I’m really impressed by what you do at the company or with [Name of Client], and I’d love to learn more about your career journey. Would you be open to meeting for coffee sometime next week?”
Most professionals are flattered by such requests and are more than happy to share their experiences. Over coffee, you can ask about their career trajectory, the skills they’ve found most valuable, and any advice they have for someone just starting out. These conversations can provide invaluable insights and might even lead to ongoing mentorship or other opportunities.
Networking ONLINE: Making the Most of LinkedIn
In today’s digital age, networking isn’t confined to physical spaces. Platforms like LinkedIn offer a wealth of opportunities to connect with industry professionals. It’s about making the most of the platform to stand out and stay connected.
First, it’s important to ensure your PROFILE is up-to-date and reflects your personality, both as a professional and an individual. (If you are looking for specific advice about how to use LinkedIn, check our past article: BUILDING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND IN THE DIGITAL AGE). Start by connecting with colleagues, classmates, and industry leaders. COMMENT on relevant posts and PARTICIPATE in discussions to make your presence known.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to people whose work you admire. A simple message like, “Hi [Name], I saw you at [Event] and came across your profile. I am new to the Insurance Industry and would love to connect and learn more about your experiences,” can open doors to NEW CONNECTIONS and opportunities. You have a unique opportunity to BROADEN YOUR NETWORKING easily using online tools, don’t be afraid to take advantage of these opportunities.
MENTORSHIP: The Power of Guidance and Giving Back
Finding a mentor can be one of the most beneficial steps in your career journey. A mentor can offer GUIDANCE, share their experiences, help you NAVIGATE the industry, and INTRODUCE you to their networks, which you may not otherwise have the opportunity to meet.
The biggest question newer Insurance Professionals ask is: ‘How do I FIND A MENTOR?’ Look for someone whose career path you admire and who embodies the qualities you aspire to develop. This could be a senior colleague, an industry leader, or simply someone who graduated a few years ahead of you. When asking someone to be your mentor, be clear about what you’re looking for and why you’ve chosen them. A message like, “Hi [Name], I’ve greatly admired your career in [specific area], and I’m currently seeking mentorship to help guide my own career path. Would you be open to a mentorship relationship?” is respectful and to the point.
Remember, mentorship is a TWO-WAY STREET. While you gain invaluable insights and advice, mentors also benefit from the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm you bring. And here’s a secret: many professionals love being asked for advice. It’s FLATTERING and rewarding for them to share their knowledge and see you grow.
Think about mentorship from the other side, too. Even early in your career, you can offer support and guidance to students and peers newer to the industry. It’s never too early to start giving back and building a reputation as a helpful and supportive colleague.
Networking in the insurance industry doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether it’s getting to know your COLLEAGUES, inviting someone for a COFFEE chat, connecting ONLINE, or seeking and offering MENTORSHIP, each of these steps can significantly impact your career.
Here at Sauce, we like to BE BOLD, so, go ahead—strike up that conversation, send that LinkedIn request, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Careers in the Insurance Industry grow in unconventional ways and you never know where these connections might lead. Welcome to the industry, and happy networking!
If you are new to the Insurance Industry and are looking for advice about building your career, our last article: NEW GRADUATES – YOU HAVE TIME TO FIGURE THIS OUT! is a great place to start. If you are interested in making a connection with one of our Recruiters, feel free to reach us via email, phone or on LinkedIn. Our Recruiters love making new connections even if you aren’t’ currently in the market for a new role.
You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook where we like to have a bit more fun about searching, finding, and landing exciting roles.
