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JUNIOR LEVEL

Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a difficult policy holder. How did you handle the situation?

Claims Examiner Interview Questions
Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a difficult policy holder. How did you handle the situation?

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a Claims Examiner, I had a situation where I had to deal with a difficult policy holder. The policy holder was unhappy with the outcome of their claim and was very vocal about it. I remained calm and empathetic throughout the interaction, listening to their concerns and acknowledging their frustration. I explained the claims process in detail and offered to review their claim again for any potential errors. I took the time to understand their perspective and address their concerns. Ultimately, I was able to resolve the issue by providing additional documentation and explaining the reasoning behind the claim decision. This helped the policy holder feel heard and validated, and they left the interaction with a better understanding of the situation.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Claims Examiner, I had a challenging encounter with a policy holder who was dissatisfied with the outcome of their claim. They were frustrated and upset, expressing their dissatisfaction in a heated manner. I remained composed and maintained a professional and empathetic demeanor. I actively listened to their concerns and validated their emotions, acknowledging their frustration. I took a proactive approach to address the situation, explaining the claims process in detail, and offering to review their claim for any potential errors. Additionally, I assured them that their concerns would be thoroughly investigated and resolved. To gain a better understanding of their perspective, I asked open-ended questions and encouraged them to provide any additional information that could support their case. After careful analysis and evaluation, I discovered a missing supporting document in the claim file, which could potentially change the decision. I apologized for the oversight and informed the policy holder that I would rectify the situation promptly. I promptly followed up with the policy holder, providing updates on the progress of their claim and ensuring that their concerns were addressed. Ultimately, I was able to resolve the issue to their satisfaction, and they expressed gratitude for my responsiveness and dedication to resolving their concerns.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details and examples to demonstrate the candidate's effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It showcases the candidate's ability to remain composed and empathetic, actively listen to the policy holder's concerns, and take a proactive approach to resolve the issue. The candidate also demonstrates their ability to analyze and evaluate the claim information, identify potential errors, and rectify the situation promptly. However, the answer could be further improved by highlighting the candidate's knowledge of industry-specific regulations and procedures, as well as their ability to work in a team.

An exceptional answer

During my tenure as a Claims Examiner, I encountered a particularly challenging situation with a policy holder who was dissatisfied with the handling of their claim. The policy holder had experienced a significant property damage event, and their claim was complex due to multiple policy coverage components. Initially, the policy holder was frustrated and overwhelmed by the claims process, as they were unfamiliar with the industry jargon and procedures. Recognizing their distress, I took a patient and empathetic approach, explaining the process step by step in clear and simple terms, ensuring they had a clear understanding of each stage. To address their concerns effectively, I utilized my strong communication and interpersonal abilities to establish trust and build rapport. I actively listened to their grievances, asking probing questions to gain valuable insight into their specific needs and expectations. Using my extensive knowledge of the insurance industry, I carefully analyzed the policy documentation, claim forms, and relevant evidence. This analysis uncovered discrepancies and inaccuracies in the claim file that had contributed to the policy holder's frustration. To remedy the situation, I worked collaboratively with the policy holder, senior examiners, and other stakeholders to rectify the errors promptly. Furthermore, I provided regular updates to the policy holder, ensuring they were made aware of the progress and actions taken to expedite the claims process. By maintaining an open line of communication and addressing their concerns promptly, I was able to restore the policy holder's trust. As a result, they expressed their appreciation for my dedicated efforts and my ability to turn a challenging situation into a positive experience for them.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond in providing specific details and examples to highlight the candidate's exceptional skills in effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and knowledge of the insurance industry. The candidate demonstrates their ability to simplify complex concepts, actively listen, and adapt their communication style to meet the policy holder's needs. They also showcase their expertise in analyzing policy documentation and claim forms, as well as their collaborative approach in working with the policy holder and other stakeholders to rectify errors promptly. The candidate's dedication, continuous communication, and ability to turn a challenging situation into a positive experience set this answer apart. However, the answer could still be enhanced by mentioning the candidate's record-keeping skills and their adherence to legal requirements and company policies.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with the claims process and industry-specific regulations to effectively communicate with policy holders.
  • Practice active listening skills to ensure policy holders feel heard and understood.
  • Develop strong problem-solving abilities to analyze claim information and identify potential errors or discrepancies.
  • Enhance your knowledge of the insurance industry and keep up with industry developments and trends.
  • Improve your communication and interpersonal skills by seeking feedback and practicing in mock scenarios with difficult policy holders.
  • Learn from experienced professionals in the field by seeking mentorship or observing their approach to handling difficult policy holders.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Effective communication
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving

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