Over the years I’ve spoken to hundreds of candidates in the Lloyd’s / London Market.
The ones who get offers aren’t always the most technically gifted but are the ones who just be themselves.
Here’s a few pointers to think about prior to your interview:
The key to success is knowing your market as well as your CV
- Anyone can chat through their own CV but the successful ones have a broader overview of the market and talk about what’s happening in their class of business right now. Rate movements, emerging risks, market appetite.
- We all know the insurance market is a relationship driven industry. If you’ve built good broker or underwriter relationships, say so. And be specific.
- Be curious, ask thoughtful questions. These need to be prepared prior to the interview. Taking a notepad into the interview along with your questions is fine. Questions around salary and benefits aren’t encouraged. Ask about the team, where the syndicate wants to grow, current climate etc. It signals that you’re thinking beyond an offer.
- And finally, be warm. People hire people they want to work alongside. A genuine, confident, personable candidate will almost always edge out a brilliant but guarded one.
Technical knowledge gets you in the room.
Everything else closes the offer.
What’s the best piece of interview advice you’ve ever received, or given?