These days, professionals across virtually all industry lines are perpetually underwhelmed by compensation, yet overwhelmed by a barrage of expectations, both in terms of demand on their time and headspace. This conundrum is arguably more pronounced in our microcosm–or at least we'd like to think so–as claim frequency and severity continue to escalate. But if you assume that a hefty paycheck equates to job satisfaction, then it is time to consider some other forms of currency.

To clarify, I'm not diminishing the value or necessity of money. But time and again, job satisfaction surveys suggest that certain intangibles, including flexibility and intellectual stimulation, trump money in fostering professional contentment. In this month's Claim Management column, which begins on pg. 14, Charles Hunter McRee discusses what constitutes a “professional,” detailing altruistic perks and how to set the stage for a lifetime of learning. As McRee astutely points out, part of being successful is viewing your chosen vocation as a “craft,” rather than merely a means to sustain a living. In many instances, dissatisfaction stems from not taking pride in one's craft, either by circumstance or by choice.

Sure, the claims profession is a daunting one. It involves confronting challenges and uncomfortable situations on a regular basis, as adjusters often serve as the first point of contact when a policyholder watches helplessly as the surrounding walls–either figuratively or literally–slowly crumble around them. Aside from the contractual obligation to the policyholder, we must also fulfill a very human one. By acting with mental acuity and compassion, we can expedite the road to indemnification and possibly the policyholder's return to normalcy.