At Insure Recruitment, we speak to hundreds of insurance professionals every year. One thing is clear: the strongest candidates aren’t always the ones with the most experience—they’re the ones who prepare well and know how to communicate their value.
Whether you’re interviewing for an Account Handler, Account Executive, Insurance Advisor, Underwriter, Claims Handler or Team Leader position, these practical tips will help you make a lasting impression.
1. Make a Great First Impression
First impressions matter.
Arrive 10–15 minutes early, dress professionally, smile confidently and make eye contact. A positive attitude from the moment you walk through the door sets the tone for the interview.
2. Build Trust from the Start
Insurance is built on trust.
Be honest about your experience, answer questions clearly and never exaggerate your knowledge. Hiring managers value integrity just as much as technical ability.
3. Know Your Numbers
Be prepared to discuss:
- Number of clients you manage
- Gross Written Premium (GWP)
- Largest premium handled
- Renewal retention
- New business achievements
- Cross-selling successes
- Claims support
- Systems you’ve used (Acturis, Open GI, SSP, Applied Epic and more)
Quantifying your achievements makes your experience much more impactful.
4. Sell Your Achievements, Not Your Job Description
Rather than saying:
“I processed renewals.”
Explain the value you added.
For example:
“I managed a portfolio of 450 SME clients, achieving a 94% renewal retention rate while identifying additional cover opportunities that increased income.”
5. Use the STAR Method
Many interview questions are competency-based.
Structure your answers using:
- Situation
- Task
- Action
- Result
This helps you tell clear, memorable stories that demonstrate your experience.
6. Your Body Language Speaks Volumes
Remember to:
✔ Sit confidently
✔ Smile naturally
✔ Keep your hands visible
✔ Listen actively
✔ Avoid fidgeting
Confident body language reinforces everything you’re saying.
7. Research the Company
Before your interview, find out:
- What they specialise in
- Their products and services
- Company values
- Recent growth or acquisitions
- Awards and achievements
- Career development opportunities
Interviewers are always impressed by candidates who have done their homework.
8. Be Honest About Knowledge Gaps
No one has experience in every class of insurance.
If you haven’t worked with a particular product or sector, explain how your existing knowledge will help you learn quickly.
A willingness to develop is often just as valuable as previous experience.
9. Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions around:
- Mid-Term Adjustments (MTAs)
- Renewals
- FCA regulations
- Treating Customers Fairly (TCF)
- Consumer Duty
- Risk presentations
- Claims handling
- Placing business with insurers
- Market exercises
Think through examples before the interview.
10. Handle Difficult Client Scenarios
You may be asked how you’d respond to:
- Premium increases
- Complaints
- Declined claims
- Cover disputes
Always structure your answer around listening, empathising, explaining and finding a solution.
11. Ask Great Questions
Interviews are a two-way conversation.
Consider asking:
- What would success look like in six months?
- What progression opportunities are available?
- How is performance measured?
- What support is available for Cert CII qualifications?
- What type of clients would I be working with?
Thoughtful questions demonstrate genuine interest.
12. Show Commercial Awareness
Insurance professionals don’t just administer policies—they solve problems.
Talk about:
- Client retention
- Building relationships
- Cross-selling opportunities
- Risk management
- Delivering excellent customer outcomes
This shows you understand the bigger picture.
13. Finish Strong
At the end of your interview, thank the interviewer and reaffirm your enthusiasm.
Something as simple as:
“Thank you for your time today. The role sounds like a fantastic opportunity, and I’d be delighted to join the team.”
can leave a lasting impression.
14. Follow Up
A short thank-you email within 24 hours reinforces your professionalism and interest.
Mention something specific from the interview and reiterate why you’re excited about the opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Interviews aren’t just about proving what you know—they’re about showing who you are.
Preparation, confidence and authenticity can make all the difference.
At Insure Recruitment, we don’t just help candidates find their next opportunity—we help them prepare for success. From CV advice and interview coaching to market insights and salary guidance, we’re here to support your career every step of the way.
If you’re considering your next move within the insurance industry, we’d love to hear from you.
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