Your Biggest Investment
What is something that you cannot purchase but could cost you everything if lost? I know there are several possible answers to this question. One that comes quickly to mind for me is one’s integrity and reputation. In this Catastrophe adjusting world, your integrity means everything. Your integrity is a complete reflection of who you are and the reputation that follows you. Can a compromised integrity be resuscitated?
Your reputation and integrity will always be what you are remembered by. It is your unique branding. Both are a work in progress and directly influenced by judgement as well as actions and inactions. Moreover, both are influenced over time and a culmination of where we have been. An excellent example is that of your work product as it represents and defines who you are. Your comprehensive report, detailed photographs, thorough estimate, chronological file notes, etc., are a representation or better said, your stamp of integrity. Likewise, with every conversation and action, be it with a client, policyholder, leadership, co-worker, or a recruiter, you are building your reputation. Every decision made and action taken is a representation of who you have become to be known as. Building a good rapport in this industry takes work and is an investment. Conversely, please remember that complacency is no one’s friend and can unravel all that you have worked towards with one lapse in good judgement.
Often in the catastrophe adjusting world, we find ourselves in stressful work conditions. Enthusiasm will ebb and flow, energy reserves will run low and fatigue will set in. This is inevitable. When this is experienced, please remember the following:
· Stop and think before you react to any situation, especially a potential conflict.
· Stop and give a pause before you speak to answer a question or comment.
· Stop and review to make sure you submit a quality work product.
Every time you leave an assignment make sure you are leaving in good standing with your integrity intact. This is how you build your best reputation. Remember your reputation is how you make doors open for future work opportunities.
With the above in mind, I encouraged you to use NACA to your best advantage. When you attend the 2024 convention and work your way around the vendor floor, take the time to visit each of the IA firms. Have a real discussion about their organization. Ask questions. Find a good fit for you. These firms are at the NACA convention looking for good claims professionals. Use this to your advantage and find deployments. A good employer fit goes a long way in helping you grow professionally and will present opportunities to help in cultivating your professional DNA; integrity and reputation.
Lastly…whether just starting or already advanced, strive to build and keep your personal integrity and reputation intact. Guard it like nothing else. It is your biggest investment. Strive to be your best and always work on building your reputation. In this business, it is the only constant you have. It is priceless….
Stay safe out there,
Julia
