How To Get A Job As An Insurance Investigator
Insurance is purchased in order to protect individuals, organizations, and businesses from potential financial losses. Due to the fact that financial losses may involve large sums, an Insurance Adjuster is assigned to look into each claim submitted. Insurance Adjusters conduct interviews, review paperwork, and collect visual evidence which relates to the claim. The Insurance Adjusters then file a report determining any liability and work to settle the claim.
In the event that an Insurance Adjuster cannot reach a satisfactory decision, an Insurance Examiner is called in for assistance. In many cases, a satisfactory decision is made and the claim is settled. However, if any fraud is suspected such as seemingly exaggerated injuries, staged accidents, or arson, then the case need further investigation. An Insurance Investigator takes over the case.
Insurance Investigators must be self-confident, patient, persistent, detail oriented, and able to work and make decisions independently. Good communication and computer skills are essential. Insurance Investigators must be familiar with surveillance techniques, including the use of photographic and audio equipment. Insurance Investigators conduct in depth interviews, talk to other professionals, review written and visual evidence, conduct surveillance, to database research and write reports.
Insurance Investigators work both indoors and out, depending on the nature of the claim. They may work a forty hour week, but are often required to work overtime, sometimes for long hours. They may also need to travel and spend long periods away from home. The work of Insurance Investigators may be stressful and even dangerous when arson or suspected criminal activity is involved. Investigators often work both in an office and from home.
Education
No specific education is required for Insurance Investigators. However, some formal post-secondary education is preferred. Experience in law enforcement is definitely an asset. Insurance Adjusters and Insurance Examiners often move into the area of Insurance Investigation as they already have many of the skills needed for success.
States vary in the licensing requirements for Insurance Investigators. Usually licensing involves a written exam, some training courses, and a commitment to continuing education about state and federal laws concerning insurance claims.
For those with sufficient experience as well as education, certification is available. This necessitates a continuing completion of updated education courses.
Successful Insurance Investigators move on to become managers and supervisors. Some open their own investigation firms.
There is keen competition for jobs as Insurance Investigators. If this type of work interests you, get the most related education you can, investigate the state requirements for the area in which you wish to seek employment, and practice the personal skills necessary to achieve success.
