/Underwriting Manager/ Interview Questions
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Describe a time when you had to use strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in your underwriting work.

Underwriting Manager Interview Questions
Describe a time when you had to use strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in your underwriting work.

Sample answer to the question

One time in my underwriting work, I had to use strategic thinking and problem-solving skills when I encountered a complex case involving a high-risk applicant. The applicant had a history of multiple claims and had been rejected by other insurance companies in the past. To assess the risk effectively, I gathered all the necessary information, including the applicant's medical records, past claims, and lifestyle habits. I also conducted extensive research on similar cases and industry trends. With this in-depth analysis, I was able to identify potential mitigating factors and develop a customized underwriting solution. I presented my findings and recommendations to the team, explaining the rationale behind my strategy. Through collaboration and brainstorming, we refined the solution and gained consensus. As a result, we were able to provide coverage to the applicant while minimizing the risk for the company. This experience taught me the importance of strategic thinking and problem-solving in underwriting, especially when dealing with challenging cases.

A more solid answer

In my underwriting work, I encountered a complex case involving a high-risk applicant with a history of multiple claims. This applicant had been rejected by other insurance companies, and it was a significant challenge to assess the risk accurately. To tackle the situation, I took a strategic approach and engaged in problem-solving. I gathered all relevant information, including the applicant's medical records, past claims, and lifestyle habits. I conducted extensive research on similar cases and industry trends to gain a broader perspective. With this comprehensive analysis, I identified potential mitigating factors and developed a customized underwriting solution. I presented my findings and recommendations to the team, explaining the rationale behind my strategy. Through collaboration and brainstorming, we refined the solution and gained consensus. As a result, we were able to provide coverage to the applicant while minimizing the risk for the company. This experience highlighted the importance of strategic thinking and problem-solving in underwriting, especially when dealing with challenging cases.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more details on the specific actions taken by the candidate and the impact of those actions. It also emphasizes the collaboration and brainstorming aspect, which is important in a leadership role as an Underwriting Manager. However, it could still provide more specific examples of the candidate's problem-solving skills.

An exceptional answer

During my time as an underwriter, I faced a complex case involving a high-risk applicant who had a history of multiple claims, and other insurance companies had rejected their application. To handle this situation, I utilized strategic thinking and problem-solving skills at multiple stages of the underwriting process. Firstly, I analyzed the applicant's medical records, identified patterns in the claims, and conducted extensive research on similar cases. This helped me understand the underlying reasons for the claims and assess the applicant's current risk level accurately. Secondly, I collaborated with the claims department to gain insights into any potential fraud activities or misrepresentation. This required careful communication and analysis of various claims documents and expert opinions. Lastly, I formulated a customized underwriting solution by implementing strict risk management protocols, such as a higher premium and deductible. I presented this solution to the team, fostering open discussions and incorporating their input. By leveraging strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, I successfully underwrote the policy with appropriate coverage and premium. This experience enhanced my ability to anticipate risks, identify patterns, and develop effective solutions tailored to the specific needs of clients.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates a high level of strategic thinking and problem-solving skills at different stages of the underwriting process. It provides specific examples of analyzing medical records, collaborating with other departments, and formulating a customized underwriting solution. The answer also highlights the impact of the candidate's actions in successfully underwriting the policy. Additionally, it emphasizes the ability to anticipate risks and develop tailored solutions. However, it could further enhance the response by providing specific metrics or outcomes achieved as a result of the candidate's strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

How to prepare for this question

  • Reflect on past experiences where you had to use strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in your underwriting work
  • Think about how your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills have benefited previous employers
  • Consider the challenges you may face as an Underwriting Manager and how your strategic thinking can overcome them
  • Be prepared to provide specific examples of how you have used strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in various underwriting scenarios
  • Demonstrate your ability to anticipate risks and develop effective solutions tailored to the needs of clients

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving

Related Interview Questions

More questions for Underwriting Manager interviews