Auto Insurance Claims: Insurance Adjuster/ Independent Agency, insurance industry experience, human resources department

Question
Hello Mr. Hixenbaugh,

After putting my aspirations to become a private investigator on hold for awhile, I am considering becoming either an insurance adjuster or selling insurance as an independent agent. I figure with more insurance industry experience, I could later even work as an in-house private investigator or a free lance investigator for insurance conpanies.

Could you possibly explain what steps I would have to take in preparing to become an insurance adjuster? Is a degree or specific education required, and what would be the most efficent way to locate the correct departments within an insurance company to apply for this type of position and learn more about any in-house training programs.

Thank you very much.

With best regards,

Mike Eidson

Answer
Hi Mike,

All insurance companies will have an human resources department. You can start contacting companies to see what positions they have available in your area. You can also check news paper help wanted ads or online job boards like Monster.com. You would search for Claims Adjuster positions. Aver time you will find companies advertising for entry level or trainee positions. You can also do a search for your local claims association. They generally meet once a month and it's a good place to network

Most insurance companies will generally advertise for someone with a 4 year degree or equivelent training or experience. However, this can be over looked if you have good communication and organizational skills.  For specific independent training that you can do prior to looking for a job you should check into Vale National. The have several locations throughout the US.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh