Review our Clients’ Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about AACA Employment, our job placement services, and career guidance for insurance professionals.

Searching for a new position can be a time consuming and sometimes confusing process. Candidates utilizing a professional search firm such as AACA Employment have a distinct advantage over those who chose to seek out a new position on there own. When we agree to accept a search assignment we pledge to identify, qualify, and match employable candidates to our clients.

When utilizing our services as a candidate you can be assured that we will analyze and screen potential positions to eliminate sending you on anything but viable employment opportunities. You can also be assured of absolute confidentiality.

With over 27 years experience in the insurance industry, we know the inner workings of companies and agencies. We will see to it that you get the attention of the Decision Makers and that you obtain the best Financial Package that they have to offer. We treat this opportunity to assist you in finding new employment as a partnership. We will partner our abilities with yours to find a position best suited for you.

Commitment: It is important, as we give you our commitment to professionally, promptly and confidentially focus our efforts on a job search, that you are just as committed to relying on our resources and abilities. We would ask you to refrain from any of the following:

  • Working with other recruiters in the same market
  • Posting your resume on the internet
  • Setting up your own interview

By doing any of the above on your own, you may compromise our negotiating position and our ability to obtain the best deal possible for you.

Resume: Provide us with a current resume. This should provide up-to-date information concerning your employment history and education. It should be accurate, informative, and grammatically correct. Our staff can assist you in fine tuning your resume as needed.

References: It is important to have at least three (3) good references. There should include, if possible, at least one current or former supervisor, a co-worker, and a personal reference. You should ask them ahead of time to be sure they agree to act as a reference on your behalf.

Preparation: Being properly prepared for the job search/interview process will help you in making the right choice. We will prepare you for the interview by giving you a complete background on the position and the employer; we will review what you can expect at the interviews and/or testing.

Negotiations: Knowing the industry the way we do, we are in a much better position to negotiate a compensation program for you than you can usually do for yourself. Based on our conversation with you, we will negotiate salary, benefits, and additional perks on your behalf. The final decision on acceptance of the offer will ultimately be yours.

Counter offers from existing employers are fairly common. Your recruiter will discuss the possibility and consequences of counter offers before you accept any offer we present to you.

Although a counter offer from your existing employer may seem like a safe alternative to the uncertainty of changing jobs, these are some points you need to consider:

  • Studies have shown that most employees who accept a counter offer leave that employer within a year (voluntarily and involuntarily).
  • You have now “burned a bridge” with the prospective employer who made you an offer. You also may have alienated the recruiter who worked so hard on your behalf.
  • The insurance community is small and tightly knit, your word and reputation are very important, and you never know when a need for a new position may present itself in the future.
  • You have now “tipped your hand” to your current employer. They know you have expressed the potential to leave and that you may do it again. The next time it may be their choice, not yours.
  • By having to make a counter offer, rather than have you leave and disrupt the workflow, your employer is opening the possibility for similar demands from other employees, which can cause resentment.
  • The integrity of the employer, the recruiter, and you are all compromised by your acceptance of a counter offer.

First impressions are crucial in the interview process. It is important to be prepared physically, emotionally, and mentally when meeting a prospective employer. Here are some general interview tips:

  • Your objective is to convince the interviewer that you are the most qualified candidate and should be seriously considered for the position.
  • Don’t oversell yourself. It usually takes multiple interviews to be presented with an offer. You want to present yourself well enough to get to the next step.
  • Listen well. It is important to listen closely to what the interviewer says and answer only the question asked.
  • Be Concise. Time is valuable to the interviewer as well as to you. Be accurate and concise in your responses. Do not go off on tangents but answer the question thoroughly.
  • Be On Time. It is important to not be late for an interview. If possible, take a practice trip to the place of your interview prior to the interview date. That way you will know exactly where it is and how long the trip will take you.
  • Dress Professionally. Even if the work environment is business casual, you are not one of their employees yet, so you should dress professionally.
  • Body Language speaks volumes. Be aware of how you present yourself. Sit up straight and look directly at the interviewer when you respond.
  • Ask Questions. Don’t be afraid to interview the interviewer. However avoid questions regarding compensation and benefits at the first interview.
  • “If you do not have anything good to say…” Don’t speak poorly of existing employers or supervisors.
  • Tell the Truth. Answer any and all questions truthfully.
  • Do your Homework. Review all the pertinent information you can find on the prospective employer. This can be done via their website, annual report, or advertising material.