I have been in the finance industry for 19 years at this point. I joined the insurance line way back in 2002, right after University Interestingly, this was a job I had never imagined myself doing; let alone doing it for almost two decades. 

Interestingly, I got to know about it from my then-girlfriend, now my wife, when I accompanied her for a career talk. As it turns out she decided to hold back, while I signed up for the insurance exam right that day.

So it may have started as a part-time job, while I was waiting for an opportunity to find some other “dream job”. But the fast-paced nature of the job; and the industry transformations every few years, got me hooked. Today I specialise in Corporate Employee Insurance Benefits, where I customise, design, and implement insurance plans for different companies. 

Prior to this, the only jobs I held were as a customer service representative at a local telco, and then a six-month attachment to a construction firm. I do think any job, including these, are excellent opportunities to learn both technical and life skills. But it was in my current industry that I found a good fit – I love being at the forefront of the Singapore economy, and playing a central role in one of our pillar industries. 

Some things about the job have stayed the same for almost two decades; but most things change – and they change fast

Meeting people, talking over food and drinks, playing sports and social events; these are ever-present in the job. And I’m grateful that I can have a job which has a “fun first, work later” approach for the clients. But I should point out it didn’t start easily, as I am by nature a little shy and introverted; so one of my biggest challenges was to adapt, and make approaching and talking to people a second habit. 

When it comes to the work portion, I prefer to work smart: I delegate to team members who have the right expertise for specific tasks, be it customer service or following-up. This leaves me free to deal with strategic planning, management, and focusing on the sales cycle. This approach has been adjusted and refined over the years to a best-fit. 

But beyond this, adaptation and change are essential. The scope of my work changes as the years go on – insurance is the mainstay, but it has evolved to encompass digital approaches, enhancements in product benefits, and other tech-based disruptions. 

Meanwhile external events, such as Covid-19, have brought on unprecedented and unexpected challenges. This has required everyone in my position to change and move forward fast.

Fortunately, I have learned to grow through experience and the school of hard knocks; so I’ve also learned to adjust to factors like the people around me, changes to government legislations, shifting company rules and structures, and so forth. 

Also, I enjoy being at the forefront of things, as I mentioned; and I’ve liked the opportunity to experience and learn first-and how the finance industry is transitioning to the digital era. It has given me a head start, in this era of inexorable change.

It’s also about developing the right skills 

One of the things I learned was to make people feel comfortable; not to intrude into their personal space. 

I’ve learned not to be the aggressive type, who chases down a sale after a proposal is sent. It’s better to wait for the right time to ask. I have been told that I am a good listener, as I give my clients the time they need to tell me their needs. 

Developing listening skills gives you the time to analyse and dissect client problems, and come up with fresh solutions.

Effective goal-setting and adaptability are also key skills. I strive when I have a goal and dateline. There will be the usual milestones to track my progress; but the strategies to reach them are adjusted to meet unforeseen circumstances. In short, I will make sure I achieve the objective set out, regardless of interruptions.

Staying power and adaptability rub off on you, when you learn from the right people

Staying relevant means constantly learning. When I meet successful people in the industry, I try to adopt their winning formula, and integrate their techniques with mine. 

For example, consumer buying behaviour is vastly different today, from when I first step into the industry. It is shaped by factors such as digitalisation and media marketing. The ability to adapt to these changes allows me to stay relevant, and able connect with clients who process information differently. This was needed to engage a subsequent generation of clients, from my existing base. Hence, digital media is something I’ve spent time learning, from leaders in this industry.

Change is the only constant 

In life, our expectations and satisfactions (or lack thereof) will change as we grow. I refer to both inward growths, with age and maturity, and outward growths, like changes in our industry or who we work with. 

At some point, our current environment will become unable to fulfil key needs and requirements – be it related to money, career growth, mental attainment, and so forth. When this happens, the only way out is change; and speed is often of the essence. If you’re contemplating a job change, for example, the seed is already planted – may as well act fast to save time. 

Making the switch to my industry, and growing with it, hasn’t just provided for my basic and essential needs. It’s provided a sufficient challenge to keep me engaged, and given me a career that lets me pursue my interests without compromising my work.