Why professionalism matters in insurance
Insurance is a relationship‑driven, regulated industry. Clients, colleagues and partners need to trust you. Professional behaviours-clear communication, reliability and respect, help protect that trust and your reputation.
This pillar focuses on the everyday behaviours that clients, colleagues and leaders value: clear communication, reliability, respect and a willingness to learn.
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- Survive → build foundational competence, confidence, and professionalism
- Thrive → develop long‑term growth skills, adaptability, and career success
First impressions
You don’t need to know everything on day one, but how you approach each opportunity matters.
Focus first on: punctuality, presentation and attitude.
- Dress appropriately for your workplace; check the dress code or ask if unsure
- Arrive on time (aim for 10 minutes early)
- Be friendly: smile, make eye contact and say hello
- Set up a clear, professional LinkedIn profile (remember it’s public), use a simple headshot: work attire, plain background, no selfies
Communication counts
Email and messaging
Focus first on: clarity and professionalism.
- Be polite and professional
- Use clear subject lines
- Avoid slang, emojis and all caps
Meetings and etiquette
Focus first on: listening and respect.
- Listen actively and don’t interrupt
- Speak clearly and respectfully
- Turn cameras on for virtual meetings and use a tidy background
- Keep phones away unless needed for work
Work hard
Focus first on: reliability and follow‑through.
- Be prepared and meet deadlines
- Take responsibility for mistakes and suggest solutions
- Prioritise tasks and ask for help early when needed
- Stay focused and limit distractions
- Be present on agreed in‑office days
- Support colleagues when needed
For example: if something goes wrong, flag it early, explain what happened and suggest a way forward.
Respect others
Focus first on: courtesy and inclusion.
- Treat everyone with respect, regardless of role or seniority
- Be reliable; your team should be able to count on you
- Respect different cultures, views and working styles
- Give credit where it’s due
- Be mindful that English may not be everyone’s first language; communicate clearly
Growth mindset
Focus first on: learning and self‑development.
- Be open to feedback and see it as a chance to improve
- Show initiative and a positive attitude
- Manage stress and seek advice when needed
- Keep learning: ask questions, take notes and build new skills
- Take professional qualifications where possible
Career Professionalism Project Group
This section of the Survive & Thrive programme has been developed by the London & South East Committee’s Career Progression Project Group — a team of young insurance professionals focused on supporting early‑career brokers as they build essential skills, confidence and momentum throughout their careers.
Hannah-Kate Smith
Guy Carpenters
Emilia Gibb
Gallagher
Gemma Killen
Gallagher
Claire Pusey
Allianz Trade
