Insurance Industry Article index

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Property Insurers Face Unprecedented Challenges

2023-03-24 | Todd Fries

Todd Fries looks at the effects of war, inflation, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages on the property market.

Leadership at All Levels

Changing Landscape for Women in Construction

2023-03-10 | Tricia Kagerer

Tricia Kagerer and Taylor Mathews look at how the construction industry is changing as respects women in the industry.

Employee Well-Being

Why and How To Improve Psychological Safety in the Workplace

2023-03-03 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Sally Spencer-Thomas defines psychological safety and explains why it matters and ways to improve it.

Employee Well-Being

Recess Is for Adults, Too—Play and Wellness

2022-11-01 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Play is a vital aspect of staying well for people of all ages, as explained by Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas.

Communication

Improve Operational Efficiency with Mobile Solutions + Communication

2022-07-29 | Stokes McIntyre

Stokes McIntyre looks at ways to increase productivity on the construction jobsite.

Communication

Heat Can Be a Construction Worker Killer

2022-07-15 | Stokes McIntyre

Heat can kill. Stokes McIntyre discusses the risks, what to look for, and offers possible solutions.

Leadership at All Levels

Introducing Generation Z

2022-07-14 | Brenda Powell Wells

Dr. Brenda Wells describes their characteristics, tendencies, and what employers should do to recruit and keep them.

Leadership at All Levels

Understanding Other Generations

2022-06-23 | Brenda Powell Wells

Dr. Brenda Wells looks at how today's leaders can best communicate with employees from several different generations.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2021 Insurance Year in Review and the Impact of COVID-19

2022-05-12 | Todd Fries

Todd Fries reviews how the pandemic has impacted various insurance-related areas of the economy.

Leadership at All Levels

Reframe Risk with Daily Planning Conversations

2022-03-17 | Tricia Kagerer

Focusing on people rather than checklists can reduce risk and improve outcomes Tricia Kagerer explains the process.

Employee Well-Being

BIPOC and AAPI Mental Health: Improving the Situation

2022-03-16 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Looking forward, Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas and other health experts discuss possible insurance and health improvements.

Employee Well-Being

BIPOC and AAPI Mental Health: The Current State of Affairs

2022-03-16 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Based on a Twitter chat with health experts, Sally Spencer Thomas examines the existing impact of racial discrimination.

Employee Well-Being

Union Pacific Leads the Way in Suicide Prevention Initiatives

2022-02-23 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Sally Spencer Thomas looks at a company that offers support in a variety of ways.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

How Should Employers Respond to the Great Resignation?

2022-02-16 | Mike Poskey

Hire strong leaders, create a great culture, and reward valued employees Mike Poskey explains.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Energy Insurance Market Conditions: 2021

2022-01-13 | Todd Fries

Todd Fries discusses energy industry changes and their influence on insurance offerings.

Big Data and Predictive Analytics

Applied Data Science and Analytics in the Insurance Industry

2021-12-15 | Dale M Halon

Dale Halon examines the potential broad use of analytics in an insurance company.

Leadership at All Levels

Breaking the Bro-Code

2021-12-15 | Tricia Kagerer

Doing things the way they have always been done doesn't promote worker growth. Tricia Kagerer discusses ways to break through the barrier.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Emotional Intelligence in Today's Workplace

2021-11-17 | Mike Poskey

To win the war for talent, Mike Poskey says you need to focus on hiring for and developing emotional intelligence.

Communication

Use Technology To Communicate Safety Guidelines

2021-10-13 | Stokes McIntyre

Stokes McIntyre looks at how workers can best manage the countless messages and guidance that assail them daily.

Employee Well-Being

Understanding the Suicidal Person

2021-09-23 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas relates research showing suicide as a significant preventable public health problem.

Employee Well-Being

Language Matters: Why We Don't Say "Committed Suicide"

2021-09-15 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

We must talk about suicide if we are going to get in front of it. Sally Spencer-Thomas examines our response.

Employee Well-Being

Impact of COVID-19 on Jury Trials

2021-08-12 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Has COVID influenced the way we view mandates, rules, and those who enforce them? Brent Cooper thinks so and wonders how this has impacted American juries.

Employee Well-Being

988: The Future of Crisis Services

2021-08-12 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Coming soon: a three-digit hotline for mental health emergencies. Sally Spencer-Thomas explains why and when.

Communication

Improve Construction Communication/Reduce Risks with a Fluid Workforce

2021-05-14 | Shahin Aftabizadeh, Stokes McIntyre

Shahin Aftabizadeh and Stokes McIntyre explain the benefits of a mobile communication platform.

Leadership at All Levels

Solving Gender Equity, One Mind, One Thought at a Time

2021-04-23 | Tricia Kagerer

Solving Gender Equity, One Mind, One Thought at a Time—Looking back and looking forward, Tricia Kagerer explains the importance of surmounting prohibition, inhibition, and bias.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2020 Insurance Year in Review and the Impact of COVID-19

2021-04-09 | Todd Fries

2020 Insurance Year in Review and the Impact of COVID-19—The industry was obviously hurt. Todd Fries looks at the numbers and makes predictions.

Employee Well-Being

Suicide Prevention Crisis Services: What To Expect

2021-03-26 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Suicide Prevention Crisis Services: What To Expect—These are important links in the chain of survival. Sally Spencer-Thomas explains.

Employee Well-Being

COVID-19, Prolonged Toxic Stress, and Mental Health at Work

2020-10-30 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

COVID-19, Prolonged Toxic Stress, and Mental Health at Work—Sally Spencer-Thomas provides 10 action steps employers can take to make a difference.

Leadership at All Levels

Empowerment—The Journey Beyond Accomplishment and Title

2020-10-30 | Rose Hall

Empowerment—The Journey Beyond Accomplishment and Title—Rose Hall examines personal power and how we should use it to benefit ourselves and others.

Employee Well-Being

Recognize National Suicide Prevention Week

2020-09-11 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Recognize National Suicide Prevention Week—Sally Spencer-Thomas discusses the history, objectives, and goals.

Leadership at All Levels

COVID-19: Stay Safe While Traveling or Navigating Around Home

2020-09-04 | Rose Hall

COVID-19: Stay Safe While Traveling or Navigating Around Home—Reduce your chance of being targeted by criminals during the pandemic by following tips from Rose Hall.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Update: Energy Insurance Market Conditions: 2020

2020-05-29 | Todd Fries

Update: Energy Insurance Market Conditions: 2020—Todd Fries's update reflects recent changes and discusses the impact on demand for insurance offerings.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Answer 5 Questions before Hiring

2020-05-22 | Mike Poskey

To find the best person to fill your opening, Mike Poskey recommends that you ask these five questions.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Why Does Emotional Intelligence Matter at Work?

2020-04-17 | Mike Poskey

There are three key reasons why emotional intelligence matters on the job. Mike Poskey explains how to hire for them.

Leadership at All Levels

Risk Management in a COVID-19 World

2020-04-10 | Tricia Kagerer

Risk Management in a COVID-19 World—Tricia Kagerer provides tips for you, your coworkers, and your family for dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.

Leadership at All Levels

Supporting Women in Construction

2020-03-20 | Tricia Kagerer

Supporting Women in Construction—"Someday, gender will have nothing to do with success." Tricia Kagerer looks at the problem and the progress.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Energy Insurance Market Conditions: 2020

2020-03-13 | Todd Fries

Energy Insurance Market Conditions: 2020—Todd Fries discusses the challenges facing energy insurers (e.g., coronavirus, under current market conditions).

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Use Employment Assessments to Prevent Interviewer Bias

2020-02-07 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey recommends using employment assessments to help make accurate hiring decisions.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Everyone Quits, and It's Okay

2020-01-10 | Mike Poskey

All employees leave. Mike Poskey says to address the reasons for departures to reframe the realities of turnover.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in the Valuation of Agents and Brokers: 2019

2019-12-06 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe discusses the impact of economic and industry conditions and demographic trends.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Empower Your Team with this Simple Exercise

2019-11-22 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey explains the importance of trusting and empowering employees to do their jobs.

Leadership at All Levels

Unconscious Bias Can Sabotage Diversity Initiatives

2019-11-22 | Tricia Kagerer

Unconscious Bias Can Sabotage Diversity Initiatives—Tricia Kagerer suggests ways to find and ultimately retain and promote top talent.

Leadership at All Levels

How and Why Athletes Make Strong Business Professionals

2019-11-01 | Rose Hall

How and Why Athletes Make Strong Business Professionals

Employee Well-Being

National Guidelines for Workplace Suicide Prevention Released

2019-10-25 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

National Guidelines for Workplace Suicide Prevention Released—Sally Spencer-Thomas reviews this call to make suicide prevention a health/safety priority.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

3 Steps for Building a High-Performing Team

2019-10-04 | Mike Poskey

Sureties generally prefer LOCs as collateral in case their principals or indemnitors file bankruptcy. Marilyn Klinger examines court cases that ruled otherwise.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

A Culture Audit Can Help Effect Organizational Change

2019-09-20 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey explains ways to provide managers with measurable insight into their company via cultural audits.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

P&C Insurer Valuation Outlook: 2019

2019-08-30 | Jeff Balcombe

Regardless of the strong recent performance, Jeff Balcombe warns that many factors will present challenges for the industry moving forward.

Big Data and Predictive Analytics

In Insurance, Some Things Never Change … or Do They?

2019-08-02 | Dale M Halon

In Insurance, Some Things Never Change … or Do They?—Dale Halon says the valuable lessons from earlier days in our industry are still pertinent today.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Hiring Managers versus Entry-Level Employees: Steps for Success

2019-07-12 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey provides a step-by-step guide to evaluating available talent.

Employee Well-Being

Why Worker Resilience, Mental Health, and Suicide Prevention Matter

2019-06-28 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Why Worker Resilience, Mental Health, and Suicide Prevention Matter—Are "accidental deaths" actually intentional? Sally Spencer-Thomas examines the issues.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Effective Change Management after a Merger

2019-05-24 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey explains how to identify change agents and leverage their competencies to build a healthy new company.

Leadership at All Levels

Build a Functional Construction Risk Management Team

2019-05-24 | Rose Hall

Build a Functional Construction Risk Management Team—First look at risk holistically, then apply a scalable, customized approach, per Rose Hoyle.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Reinsurance Valuation Trends

2019-05-24 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe says the industry is expected to benefit from continued capacity growth and rising interest rates.

Employee Well-Being

Evaluating Employee Assistance Programs

2019-04-05 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Evaluating Employee Assistance Programs—Often underutilized and neglected, EAPs can provide a mental health safety net. Sally Spencer-Thomas explains.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

To Hire Quickly, Follow a Scientific Interview Process

2019-03-29 | Mike Poskey

To Hire Quickly, Follow a Scientific Interview Process—Mike Poskey explains how following an interview plan can help ensure a smart hiring decision.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

The M&A Market for P&C Insurers: 2019

2019-03-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe looks at financial performance, economic and political factors, and the growth expectations for the industry.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Misaligned Employees: When to Reassign or Release

2019-02-08 | Mike Poskey

Businesses need to be aware of costly employees. Mike Poskey provides tips on how to manage them and analyzes when its time to reassign or release them.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Ask Behavioral Interview Questions

2019-01-25 | Mike Poskey

Traditional interviews create a risk of hiring the wrong candidate. Mike Poskey describes a better approach.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2018 Life Insurance Company Valuations and Interest Rates

2018-11-30 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides updates of life insurance company valuations and how interest rates affect the valuation of these businesses.

Career Advice

An Effective Mentor: A Powerful Career Development Tool

2018-11-12 | Brenda Powell Wells

Part of our career advice series, this article explains how having a mentor can be one of the biggest keys to your success.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Will this Job Candidate Be Loyal If Hired?

2018-11-02 | Mike Poskey

Ask behavioral interview questions to assess employee loyalty when hiring, advises Mike Poskey.

Employee Well-Being

Veterans Are Good for Work

2018-10-12 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Veterans Are Good For Work—What can we do to help veterans' mental health? Sally Spencer-Thomas says hire them.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Hiring for Customer Service: Find the Best Fit

2018-09-28 | Mike Poskey

When hiring employees to work with customers, Mike Poskey says it's important to assess their core competencies.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2018 Energy Insurance Market Conditions

2018-08-17 | Jeff Balcombe

Learn the effects of oil and gas prices on demand for insurance and current forecasts from Jeff Balcombe.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Talent War: Reduce Risk in Hiring by Finding the Best Candidate

2018-08-03 | Mike Poskey

Talent War: Reduce Risk in Hiring by Finding the Best Candidate—Mike Poskey explains how to find the best fit for your position.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Don't Dismiss Inexperienced Candidates

2018-06-22 | Mike Poskey

The most experienced candidate is not necessarily the best fit for your job opening, per Mike Poskey.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2018 Trends in the Valuation of Agents and Brokers

2018-05-25 | Jeff Balcombe

2018 Trends in the Valuation of Agents and Brokers—Jeff Balcombe discusses the impact of economic and industry conditions and demographic trends.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

How To Avoid Blind Spots When Hiring

2018-05-11 | Mike Poskey

Paul Siegel relates a case where, to prove employment discrimination, plaintiffs must show the comparator's misconduct be nearly identical to their own.

Employee Well-Being

Creating Community in a Digital Era

2018-03-29 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Creating Community in a Digital Era—Sally Spencer-Thomas examines how socialconnectedness has changed over time, along with the implications.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Assess Work Ethic When Interviewing and Hiring

2018-03-23 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey provides tips to objectively measure a candidate's work ethic to find the best fit for your firm.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Acquisitions? Assess the Cost of Noncompetition Agreements

2018-03-02 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe looks at the exposures related to acquisitions of insurance agencies/brokers where such agreements are involved.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Business Leaders Need a Plan for Hiring

2018-02-16 | Mike Poskey

To fill job openings, preparation and a plan for hiring are necessary. Mike Poskey offers tools to form a plan.

Employee Well-Being

"Man Therapy": Engaging Men in Their Mental Health

2018-02-02 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

"Man Therapy": Engaging Men in Their Mental Health—Sally Spencer-Thomas explains this method that uses innovation, humor, and digital media.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Common Blind Spots When Hiring

2017-11-17 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey discusses the problem and how to overcome these challenges to ensure you hire the best fit for your firm.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in Health Insurer Valuation: 2017

2017-11-17 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe examines the impact of socioeconomic, regulatory, and industry growth on insurers

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Managing Millennials

2017-10-27 | Mike Poskey

Hiring Managers versus Entry-Level Employees: Steps for Success—Mike Poskey provides a step-by-step guide to evaluating available talent.

Leadership at All Levels

Good Leadership Means Weathering the Storms

2017-10-20 | Lisa H Harrington

Good Leadership Means Weathering the Storms—Lisa Harrington contrasts the storms without with those within.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Learn How to Interpret Technology during the Hiring Process

2017-09-29 | Mike Poskey

Advanced technology helps companies make smarter hiring decisions. Mike Poskey explains how.

Employee Well-Being

Five Practices To Help You Find Happiness at Work

2017-09-22 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Five Practices To Help You Find Happiness at Work—Sally Spencer-Thomas shows how true happiness can lead to greater productivity and safety at work.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Behavioral Interviewing in the Auto Industry

2017-08-04 | Mike Poskey

- Learn how to reduce employee turnover, build sales, and improve CSI Scores in the auto industry, per Mike Poskey.

Employee Well-Being

Understanding the Suicidal Mind

2017-07-14 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Understanding the Suicidal Person—Sally Spencer-Thomas relates research showing suicide as a significant preventable public health problem.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Understanding the Competencies of the Optimal Remote Worker

2017-07-07 | Mike Poskey

The Optimal Remote Worker -- Mike Poskey explains their core competencies and the benefits they can deliver to your firm.

Big Data and Predictive Analytics

Objective Auto Insurance Pricing

2017-06-23 | Dale M Halon

Auto Insurance Pricing -- Dale Halon looks at making auto premiums more objective by relying on drivers' smartphone apps.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Attract and Retain Certified Construction Professionals

2017-06-02 | Mike Poskey

Use proven hiring methods to reduce turnover of construction professionals, per Mike Poskey.

Leadership at All Levels

Developing and Managing Expectations of Employees

2017-06-02 | Lisa H Harrington

Lisa Harrington looks at ways to enable employees to succeed at their jobs and careers.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Breaches of Noncompetition and Nonsolicitation Agreements

2017-06-02 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides an overview of risks and potential economic damages associated with these agreements.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

HR Technology Toolkit for Preemployment Screenings

2017-05-19 | Mike Poskey

HR technology has made it possible to conduct smarter assessments regarding preemployment screenings. Mike Poskey explains these new tools.

Ethics 02

In Search of a Paradigm for Ethical Conduct in Insurance

2017-05-19 | Tim Ryles

Tim Ryles examines significant events in the history of insurance ethics.

Big Data and Predictive Analytics

The Attraction of Analytics

2017-03-24 | Dale M Halon

With new techniques becoming available all the time, Dale Halon says it's important to keep and open and imaginative mind when it comes to analytics.

Employee Well-Being

Make Suicide Prevention a Health and Safety Priority

2017-03-17 | Sally Spencer-Thomas

Workers in high-risk industries are at a greater risk of suicide. Examine the demographics.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2017 Life Insurance Company Valuations and Interest Rates

2017-02-17 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe updates life insurance company valuations and explains how interest rates affect the valuation of these businesses.

Big Data and Predictive Analytics

Predictive Analytics: Then and Now

2017-01-13 | Dale M Halon

Looking back, learn the changes in--and importance--of big data/predictive analytics.

Leadership at All Levels

Improving Productivity through Better Communication

2016-10-21 | Patrick McGuigan

Learn how effective interpersonal communication is the critical driver of change.

Leadership at All Levels

Employee Acquisition: Listen, Learn, Hire

2016-09-30 | Lisa H Harrington

This article discusses employee acquisition, development, and retention.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Valuation of Reinsurers 2016

2016-08-26 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe updates the current valuation of reinsurance companies, including market trends and expectations.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in the Valuation of Agents and Brokers: 2016

2016-06-17 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe discusses recent changes in the valuation of agents and brokers, industry conditions, merger and acquisition activity, and market valuations.

Big Data and Predictive Analytics

Insurance Company Data-Driven Opportunities

2016-03-04 | Dale M Halon

Insurance Company Data-Driven Opportunities -- Dale Halon advises using the wide availability of data and technology to grow your company.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in Health Insurer Valuation

2015-11-06 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe examines the impact of socioeconomic, regulatory, and industry growth on insurers.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in Energy Insurance and the Impact of Falling Oil Prices

2015-05-15 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe looks at the effect of declining oil prices on the energy insurance industry and the value of such insurers.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Earn-Outs in Insurance Industry Merger and Acquisition Transactions

2015-02-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Earn-outs can benefit both buyers and sellers. Jeff Balcombe provides the details.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

2014 Agent and Broker Valuation Trends

2014-08-22 | Jeff Balcombe

As per capita income grows, Jeff Balcombe recommends that agents and brokers adjust premiums and markets.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

"Delegating" is entrusting another person with a task or responsibility. Parents delegate the education of their children to school administrators and teachers, auto owners delegate the repair of their cars to their auto technicians, and restaurant patrons delegate the preparing of their meals to the chefs. The delegator must clearly communicate what needs to be accomplished, what resources are used to do the job, and by when it must be completed.

Leadership at All Levels

Inspiring Passion in the Insurance Industry

2014-08-01 | Lisa H Harrington

Even those in the industry may view insurance as "boring." Lisa Harrington describes ways to promote the industry and make it interesting.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

The M&A Market for P&C Insurers

2014-05-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe discusses the mergers and acquisitions environment of the property and casualty insurance industry and outlines recent market trends.

Leadership at All Levels

Setting Priorities as a Time Management Tool

2014-04-01 | Lisa H Harrington

Managing your commitments in terms of deadlines and priority can make you more effective Lisa Harrington explains.

Market Practices

Looking at HOA Risks

2014-04-01 | Peter Polstein

Pete Polstein looks at home owners' association and master association entity risks.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Assessing Insurance Customer Relationships

2013-11-01 | Jeff Balcombe

To increase customer retention, Jeff Balcombe advises managers to develop strategies aimed at improving elements of their valuation equation.

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

Organizing Large Insurance Loss Reports

2013-11-01 | Gary Blake

Insurance loss reports are complex. Gary Blake provides tips to improve their readability.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace: Why It Matters More Than Personality

2013-09-01 | Mike Poskey

To gain a competitive advantage, Mike Poskey recommends seeking highly emotionally intelligent employees.

Market Practices

A Brief Look at Insuring Small Municipalities

2013-09-01 | Peter Polstein

Smaller risks often require special considerations. Peter Polstein takes a look at insuring these risks.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Valuation of Life Insurers: 2013

2013-08-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe discusses the effects of interest rate risk on life insurance company valuations and trends in valuation multiples.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

The Emotional Intelligence Competencies Top Salespeople Share

2013-07-01 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey describes attributes of a successful sales force.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Effective Communication: Easier Said Than Understood

2013-06-01 | Mike Poskey

Most organizational problems result from ineffective communication. Mike Poskey says provides some tips.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Panel Interviews: Success Lies in the Preparation and Strategy

2013-05-01 | Mike Poskey

As with any interview, care taken in planning the interview will often affect your success in several ways—the panel's and/or your interviewer competence and interest, the quality of the information obtained, and the candidate's perceptions of the interviewers and your organization. Keep in mind, candidates will also be making observations, forming impressions, and making important choices.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Seven Steps to Increase Employee Retention

2013-05-01 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey discusses why each step is critical to the overall success of an overall employee retention plan.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Inquiring Leaders Want To Know: The Skill of Asking the Right Questions

2013-04-01 | Mike Poskey

Asking open-ended questions can help inspire employees and increase their contribution to your firm's success. Mike Poskey explains.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Finding the Perfect CEO

2013-03-01 | Mike Poskey

Finding and signing the right leader for your company requires special consideration. Mike Poskey provides pointers.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Valuation of Reinsurers: 2013

2013-02-08 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides an update regarding the valuation of companies operating in the reinsurance industry.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Seven Step Priority Management

2013-02-01 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey explains how a good priority management plan can help you avoid burnout and be a catalyst for success.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Interview for Success, and Avoid the Legal Pitfalls

2013-01-01 | Mike Poskey

Discussion about avoid legal issues when interviewing potential employees.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Formal Performance Review Best Practices: Turning a Judging Act into a Coaching Process

2013-01-01 | Mike Poskey

Mike Poskey recommends moving the annual review from a systemic judging act to a coaching process.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Informal Performance Review Best Practices

2012-12-01 | Mike Poskey

Sometimes, guiding an employee to improve takes a little nudge. Mike Poskey provides pointers.

Employee Hiring Development and Retention

Best Practices in Hiring

2012-11-01 | Mike Poskey

If a job candidate looks good on paper and looks good in the interview, one would naturally assume this candidate would be a good fit for the job. While it sounds logical, it doesn't always work out that way.

Leadership at All Levels

You Can't Lead If No One Is Following You

2011-12-01 | Corbette Doyle

Leaders and followers are like dance partners—success is mutually dependent on the actions of both. Corbette Doyle explains.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in the Valuation of Health Insurers

2011-11-12 | Jeff Balcombe

Insurance industry trend toward mergers and acquisitions is expected to continue in 2012 per Jeff Balcombe.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Life Insurance Company Valuations and Interest Rates

2011-08-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Disintermediation could remain a risk to life insurance companies, potentially placing downward pressure on equity valuations per Jeff Balcombe.

Risk and Insurance History

The History of Proximate Causation

2011-07-01 | Richard J Scislowski

Sir Francis Bacon, Sir Isaac Newton, and Aristotle can provide guidance on how courts have viewed causation under first-party property policies.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Impact of Hard Market Expectations on Agency and Broker Value

2011-05-13 | Jeff Balcombe

Economic factors can reveal the current and future potential of valuations of insurance agencies and brokers, per Jeff Balcombe.

Market Practices

Claims Administration—The Insurance Service

2010-12-01 | Peter Polstein

Pete Polstein stresses the importance of claims administration.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Mergers and Acquisitions Market for Property and Casualty Insurers

2010-12-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Economic and political factors affect this market. Jeff Balcombe elaborates.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Impact of Healthcare Legislation on Health Insurance Companies

2010-08-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe says to weigh the potential increase in policyholders against the negative effects of the Affordable Care Act.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

The Value of Insurance Customer Relationships or Policies

2010-05-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides a conceptual framework for valuing customer-related intangible assets.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Trends in the Valuation of P&C Insurers: 2009

2009-08-15 | Jeff Balcombe

Recent market volatility causes much speculation about the future of the industry, per Jeff Balcombe.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Credit Crisis and Insurance Companies

2008-11-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe discusses the impact of the recent economic turmoil on the valuation of companies operating in the insurance industry.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Insurance Industry Valuation Insights: Recent Trends 2008

2008-08-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe looks at how the weak economy, soft market conditions, and deterioration in the credit markets are limiting the growth of insurers.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Insurance Valuation Insights: Reinsurers

2008-05-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides insight into the valuation of reinsurers and the market's current pricing of these businesses.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Valuation Insights: Health and Life Insurers

2008-03-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides insight into the valuation of life and health (L&H) insurers and the market's current pricing of these businesses.

Ethics 02

Ethics and the Insurance Agent: "C'mon, Little Sister!"

2008-02-01 | George L Head

February is Ethics Awareness Month. Dr. George Head poses an ethical dilemma for readers to ponder.

Ethics 02

Insurance Evolution: Response to a Changing World

2007-12-01 | George L Head

Dr. George Head wonders whether the rise in natural/manmade catastrophes and the industry's response will effect fundamental industry change.

Market Practices

Risk Assessments and Peer Reviews

2007-12-01 | Peter Polstein

Whether conducted in-house or by an outside consultant, a risk and insurance review is a good idea. Pete Polstein explains.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Property/Casualty Insurer Valuation Insights

2007-11-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe provides greater insight property and casualty insurer valuation and the market's current pricing.

Risk and Insurance History

Lloyd's of London: The Early Days

2007-09-01 | John A Bogardus

Jack Bogardus and Robert Moore relate the emergence of coffeehouses and the opportunities they created for revolutionary business practices.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Valuation Insights: Insurance Agencies and Brokers

2007-08-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe discusses factors that influence value: growth, profitability, customer relationships, and company-specific risks.

Valuation of Insurance Organizations

Financial Institution Acquisitions of Insurance Agency Platforms

2007-05-01 | Jeff Balcombe

Jeff Balcombe explains recent trends and how integration strategies are being created and implemented, and beginning to prove successful.

Ethics 02

Is Accident Forgiveness Ethical?

2006-12-01 | George L Head

Dr. George Head discusses how accident forgiveness violates fundamental insurance principles to the detriment of all.

Ethics 02

Where Our Ethics Come From

2006-03-01 | George L Head

March is Ethics Awareness month. Dr. George Head takes a broad look at individual ethics and how they are developed.

Risk and Insurance History

"Catastrophes" in Early Twentieth Century America

2005-12-01 | John A Bogardus

John Bogardus and Robert More look at what history can teach us about how our forebears responded to the threats and opportunities of the early twentieth century.

Risk and Insurance History

"Flying Machines" and Early Airline Insurance

2005-06-11 | John A Bogardus

As America became a world leader in aviation, the industry's size and importance made it a crucial line of business for many agents, brokers, and insurers. Jack Bogardus and Robert Moore explain.

Ethics 02

Special Knowledge, Special Duties?

2005-04-01 | George L Head

Do risk management professionals have a responsibility to share their expertise with others, even when they are not paid or asked to do so? Dr. George Head says "Yes!"

Ethics 02

Why Link Risk Management and Ethics?

2005-02-01 | George L Head

Risk management guru Dr. George Head joins IRMI's group of expert commentators on the topic of risk management ethics and in this article, explains the importance of both.

Market Practices

Medical Malpractice: Things to Consider

2004-10-01 | Peter Polstein

In his Insurance Industry Market Practices column, Peter Polstein looks at medical malpractice coverage and proper underwriting practices.

Risk and Insurance History

American Insurance at the Dawn of the Twentieth Century

2004-09-01 | John A Bogardus

This Risk and Insurance History column looks at the birth of the U.S. insurance agency system and how changes in technology, benefits, business practices, and regulation led to agent/broker professionalism.

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

A Few Tips on Writing to Opposing Attorneys

2004-01-01 | Gary Blake

Writing to opposing counsel is never easy. Gary Blake offers examples of poorly written correspondence and tips on how to avoid being stodgy, arrogant, and overbearing.

Market Practices

Excess Follow Form versus Umbrella

2003-12-01 | Peter Polstein

Peter Polstein takes a look at excess insurance in this month's insurance industry market practices column. Coverage terms and conditions, and negotiations, are addressed.

Market Practices

Certificates of Insurance

2003-09-01 | Peter Polstein

Peter Polstein explains why the insurance certificates are one of the more dangerous documents that float between insureds, insurers, and a myriad of third parties.

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

Ten Very Good Reasons Why Adjusters Should Take a Claims Writing Course

2003-08-09 | Gary Blake

Many claims executives bemoan that their new hires can't write, but when it comes to scheduling writing training, other priorities prevail. Gary Blake enumerates why it this training should be a priority.

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

Log Notes, Emails, and Bad Faith Lawsuits

2003-06-14 | Gary Blake

Gary Blake explains how poor writing skills can often be a determining factor in deciding whether an insurer has shown vexatious, unreasonable, or outrageous conduct in its claims handling.

Market Practices

Binders and Confirmation

2003-05-01 | Peter Polstein

Peter Polstein discusses insurance binders and why the placing agent or broker must make absolutely certain that all parties fully understand the coverage ramifications.

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

"Never End a Sentence in a Preposition" and Six Other Myths about Writing

2003-02-08 | Gary Blake

In this article, Gary Blake discusses seven 'rules' that insurance claims people must occasionally break to make their communications supple and effective.

Market Practices

Considering Alternative Risk Transfer

2003-02-01 | Peter Polstein

Peter Polstein examines the use of deductibles and self-insured retentions to help with the rising costs of insurance premiums.

Market Practices

Insurance Coverage Specifications in the Hard Market

2002-12-01 | Peter Polstein

It's important to cover all the potential areas of loss your firm faces, even if insurance is not available or affordable. Peter Polstein reviews coverage extensions you should consider.

Market Practices

What Constitutes a Full Underwriting Submission

2002-10-01 | Peter Polstein

In the first article in a new topic Insurance Industry Market Practices, Peter Polstein describes the elements that are included in a full underwriting submission, using a recent casualty renewal as an example

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

How To Organize Information

2002-08-01 | Gary Blake

Gary Blake provides writing tips for today's business professional, explaining how to properly organize information by writing with the reader in mind.

Writing Tips for Insurance Professionals

Seven Tips for Improving Your Loss Control Documents

2002-03-01 | Gary Blake

An organization's most valuable asset is the personal information about and trust of its customers. The Privacy Council explains how a security plan and other safeguards are crucial.

Risk and Insurance History

The World's First Insurance Company

2001-07-01 | Barry Klein

In 1666, the Great Fire of London nearly destroyed the city. Barry Klein explains how the first insurance company - as well as the first fire brigade emerged from the ashes.

Risk and Insurance History

The Great Fire of London

2001-06-01 | Barry Klein

The insurance industry can accurately trace its formation to the Great Fire of London on September 2, 1666. Learn the history behind the event - why the setting was ripe for disaster, the demolition of most of the city, and the foretelling of what emerged from the ashes.

Risk and Insurance History

How Umbrella Policies Started Part 2: the First Umbrella Forms

2000-04-01 | Jim Robertson

Jim Robertson discusses developments in blanket liability, other concepts that led to the creation of the first umbrella coverage forms, and the development of the American market for umbrellas after 1957.

Risk and Insurance History

How Umbrella Policies Started Part 1: Early Liability Coverage

2000-03-01 | Jim Robertson

Jim Robertson examines the origins of liability insurance, early policy limits, the first excess liability market, excess of loss reinsurance, direct U.S. placements at Lloyd's, excess coverage developments, and the emergence of self-insurance.

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