Insurance claims inspector : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, the following degree subjects may increase your chances:

• business/management;
• economics and accountancy;
• law;
• mathematics.

This area of work is also open to diplomates. The following HND subjects may improve your chances:

• accounting/finance;
• architectural engineering/technology;
• business with languages;
• building/construction;
• business/management;
• building services engineering;
• legal studies;
• mathematics;
• politics/government/public administration.

Graduates with UK awarded business, economics, management, accounting, finance and law qualifications may be given prior-learning accreditation for their studies within the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) syllabus. Contact the CII for further information.

There are two entry routes into the profession: through a general graduate management training scheme with the larger insurance companies; or directly into claims work after initial training. It is possible to follow the second route without a degree. An alternative route into the job is through more junior/clerical positions, moving up through the company by training and promotion. A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not required.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• initiative and the ability to adapt quickly to different situations;
• organisational and time management skills;
• good communication skills and an outgoing and confident disposition when dealing with people, often in difficult circumstances;
• negotiation and decision-making skills;
• good numeracy and literacy;
• strong interpersonal skills;
• discernment and the ability to assess a situation objectively;
• attention to detail and sound report-writing skills.

Personal qualities are as highly valued as qualifications and experience in claims work. Entry with a criminal conviction, with the exception of most motoring offences, is not possible. There is a high level of competition for positions both from graduates and non-graduates with general insurance claims experience. Apply early in your final year. For direct entry to junior posts, speculative applications are recommended.

Entry as a career change is possible with relevant background experience, such as work in a safety or legal capacity.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.