Insurance Underwriters

Applicants should have a high school diploma and, preferably complete a baccalaureate degree program that includes an internship at an insurance agency. Most entry-level underwriters begin as trainees working with experienced underwriters. Familiarity with an office setting, such as part-time work in an insurance company during high school or college, is helpful. Interpersonal experience is important.

Underwriting work requires great concentration and mental alertness. Underwriters must be analytical, logical, and detail oriented. They must be able to make difficult decisions based on technical, complicated information. Underwriters must also be able to communicate well both in speech and in writing. Group underwriters often meet with union employees or employer representatives. The ability to communicate well is vital for these underwriters.

Keep in mind that advancement in this career comes through continuing your education. While insurance companies often pay tuition for their employees taking underwriting courses, the underwriters themselves must have the desire to learn continuously.