C-Suite - Insurer: School's out for summer

If a week is a long time in politics, then the six weeks of summer holidays must seem an eternity for many a teenager. While some are happy to spend their time doing odd jobs and making sure their Spotify playlists are up to date, others are savvier.

Sixth‑formers especially realise their time in the educational system is now limited. And whether they choose university or not, sooner or later they must turn their attention to the world of employment. With a lot of competition out there, having a CV that catches the eye can make all the difference.

A great way of achieving this is through an internship, which gives young people a flavour of working life. And judging by the fresh faces I have seen in the Square Mile this summer, the internship is as popular as ever.

In its recent good practice guide, the Chartered Insurance Institute spelt out the benefits to be gained from internships. They can be a major influence on career choices, and can help dispel some of the misconceptions of the financial sector. As the CII notes, this is vital if we are to secure high‑quality entrants to the industry.

It’s not about learning how to make tea, either. Well‑thought‑out, structured internships offer many benefits for candidates and employers alike. They’re also a great way to promote insurance and entice that next generation of talent to our door.

Of course, I would say this, but an internship within a claims team can be a great experience. Why? Well, it’s where you get to see the whole insurance product come to life. Being part of the service culture that helps businesses and individuals work through an event they’ve encountered can be inspiring.

Claims professionals also have to understand clients and their risk first hand, and there’s no better way of doing this than during the life of a claim.

Yes, having an intern takes preparation, time and effort. But it is something we should all step up to. Giving that time can help shape a young person’s view and change their perceptions, and can provide them with the insight and experience that could shape their future career and the rest of their educational choices. After all, a short burst of experience can be enough to ignite a lifetime’s interest.

David Miller, head of Claims International P&C, Insurance, XL Group