Last week, we shared some strategies on how to stay relevant and employable. This week we want to explore 4 characteristics and qualities you should develop in order to succeed in the world of insurance, and the marketplace in general. Now more than ever, these traits are valuable and often make the difference between those who can thrive in a pandemic world and those who won’t .

1. Flexibility and adaptability. This was probably the character trait we all needed most over the last two years. But it’s also a crucial skill that every employer will keep an eye out for. Those who can be flexible and adapt will come out of hard times better than they were before. Being willing to adjust and change how you do things, to get out of the “way we’ve always done it” mentality, will allow you to thrive when all kinds of curveballs are thrown at you. So if you are not a flexible or adaptable person by nature, start flexing that muscle and learn to be one. Start small with simple things in your daily life… practice having an open mindset and doing things differently.
2. Leadership. Leaders are not just those in management or the ones who make the big decisions; anyone can demonstrate leadership skills. Leaders initiate communication, casting vision and communicating ​​strategy while encouraging others and embracing feedback from colleagues and superiors. Leaders boost morale and foster collaboration. Being self-aware and holding yourself accountable is particularly important during these challenging times.
3. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. These two skills go hand in hand. First, as we are presented with new information every day, it’s critical that you’re able to think clearly and rationally as you objectively evaluate information in order to make informed decisions and solve problems. Good critical thinkers ask questions that can help them dig a little deeper. Questions such as “what’s happening?”, “why is this important?”, “who is being affected?”, “where did the information come from?”, “can I be sure about the source?” Once we understand the problem more clearly, then we can solve it. In a world where we are going through things many of us have never gone through before, we must find solutions we have never thought of or done before. The ability to come up with solutions to problems is absolutely vital if you want to succeed right now.
4. Communication. Possessing excellent communication skills is probably hands down the most valuable skill across the board. In a world of email and zoom meetings, the ability to communicate clearly is more important than ever. So much can get lost in translation through our digital communication and so being adept at clear, articulate and efficient communication across these channels is vital. Those that understand the value for genuine human connection and communication, the ability to work with others, express themselves and make colleagues feel valued, whether it’s in person or through a computer screen, are the ones who will thrive and advance in their careers.

Take some time to be self-aware and assess which of these skills you need to work on the most. Then, one at a time, begin to develop these traits. Ask people you trust for feedback. Ask them how they experience you as a communicator or a leader or a problem solver. Take their responses and use them to grow and develop. Practice. No one is perfect at any of these things, but being aware and practicing these skills will help you stand out and thrive.