Adjusters cando much to get the attention of management but should not overlookthe more obvious avenues for success. For starters, many managersagree that one simple way adjusters can position themselves forgrowth is by doing the job. This can refer to, in part, prompt andfair claim resolution, effective time management, excellentcustomer service, and cultivating teamwork.

While optimizing the day-to-day functions of the job, anadjuster can take numerous other measures to enhance his or herability to get noticed in a positive way. Following are othersuggestions for adjusters presented in no particularorder:

Be proactive. Jay Costello, CPCU, Casualty UnitLeader at Peerless Insurance, says that taking a proactive approachto recognize and resolve a customer issue before it becomes aproblem can set one adjuster apart from another. This meansproviding thorough answers to policyholder questions and returningtheir calls in a timely manner.

Take time to invest inyourself. Achieving professional designations—such as AIC,CPCU, and so on—can help demonstrate an ongoing dedication toprofessionalism. In addition, keep technical skills up-to-date andapply these skills to the job. One example might be an adjuster whoexpands his or her knowledge of spreadsheets in order to documentmonthly progress.

Think critically. Robie Baker, NationalTraining Manager at Esurance, puts great stock in honing criticalthinking skills. “Critical thinkers recognize the small factdifference, injury difference, venue difference, and so on from oneclaim to another,” he said. “They figure out the best course ofaction accordingly. As a manager, there is a degree of comfort inknowing that a skilled adjuster is managing a desk. However, thereis one overriding quality that has always impressed me themost…..can I trust how the adjuster thinks through the issues on afile?” Can you identify anomalies on a claim and then logicallyfollow through?

Ask questions. Being unafraid to ask questionsafter exploring answers first is an excellent skill, according toKenya Owens, a claims specialist at Chartis Insurance. While inmanagement, she has observed that a lot of adjusters just want theanswers, yet need to develop a thought process as to how theyarrived at their liability or coverage decisions.  Be sureto exhaust all areas where you might locate your answer beforeapproaching the manager, and then be prepared to show what effortsyou made to find the answer.

Consider Volunteer Opportunities. Volunteeringwithin (or external to) the organization can expose you to peopleoutside of your comfort zone and lead to new opportunities andrecognition. Does your company have a safety or other committeethat interests you? Various department members usually comprisesuch committees. Is there a volunteer opportunity in the communitywhere your skills could be used and developed further?

Go the extra mile. Especially ininvestigations, it is crucial that claim professionals explore allpossible sources of information, says Safeco Unit Leader ValerieKalista. “I would definitely say that 'going deep' on investigatingissues that could make a huge difference to the actual finalpayment of the claim,” she said. “Although the initiative and timethis requires does not always offer an immediate award to claimhandlers, it is the right thing to do both for their development,and that of the company and customer.” Have you explored socialnetworking sites as potential investigative tools and to you knowthe pertinent laws and regulations to doing so?

Actively participate in thegroup. Don't merely attend meetings; participate in themby sharing your viewpoint(s). Part of being in a leadership role isrefining your ability to communicate effectively. So the next timeyou feel pressure to echo the sentiments of others, consider youropinion and don't be afraid to share it.

As a claims adjuster, you have a very interesting job. On anygiven day, you have opportunities to interact with all kinds ofpeople, to investigate claims, to learn new information, writereports, and negotiate with colleagues. While doing so, you mustmeet legal and corporate requirements without exception. Is the jobdemanding? It can be. Is it rewarding? It can be. All of thisdepends on your perspective, along with your ability to make thismore than just a job, but rather a career with boundlesspossibilities for true success and advancement.