The insurance industry saw unemployment decline in January, starting the new year with a 2.2% unemployment rate. This is lower than 2020’s overall average unemployment rate of 3% and even January 2020’s 2.9% unemployment rate. At the same time, the industry lost 9,300 jobs in January, marking its first decline since May 2020. However, it’s ... February 2021: Labor Market Pulse
In today’s primarily remote work environment, professionals have had to adjust how they approach daily interactions. Face-to-face meetings, impromptu hallway conversations, and in-person lunches are relatively nonexistent. Additional effort is required to meet colleagues, build relationships and make an impact in virtual meetings. Even as physical office locations begin to reopen, remote work and virtual ... Creating An Effective Personal Brand for the Virtual World
In today’s complex and often tumultuous environment, high emotional intelligence is one of the hallmarks of a great leader. By being emotionally aware, leaders can better engage their teams, communicate more effectively, enhance performance and increase retention. The term emotional intelligence has been around since the mid-80s, but became prominent in 1995 due to the ... Emotionally Intelligent Leadership
It’s the start of a new year and most individuals have started taking steps toward achieving their professional goals and resolutions. Last year was one like no other; goals and priorities shifted, managers led newly remote teams and external stressors weighed heavily on professionals of all levels. However, the events of 2020 also provided several ... Leadership Reflections for Moving Forward in 2021
In December, the U.S. economy saw total employment drop for the first time since April, following several months of slowed job growth. However, the insurance industry ended the year strong, adding 4,900 jobs in December, for a total of 26,400 net new jobs in 2020. Industry wages continued to increase year-to-year and insurance unemployment remained ... January 2021: Labor Market Pulse
January is around the corner and most individuals are reviewing their professional goals and development plans for the coming year. In the past, these annual goals may have been linear and inspired by natural paths for career progression. However, the events of the past year have made it apparent the focus should shift to more ... Setting Meaningful Goals for 2021
As we enter 2021, business leaders are tasked with providing a sense of stability and direction amid much uncertainty. Modernization projects are moving forward, remote work is still the norm, and the line between personal and professional continues to break down. Strong leadership is vital for success in 2021. Those at an organization’s helm must ... Leadership Skills for Future Success
The past year was one of ongoing change, redirection and flexibility. Insurers faced many challenges and had to evolve their ways of operating, communicating and servicing customers. As we enter 2021, priorities are continuing to shift and companies are adjusting their talent strategies to be most impactful. Empathy, agility, inclusivity and innovation are all key ... 8 Talent Trends to Watch in 2021
We’re reaching the end of a year like no other, and it seems like one of the only things that stayed consistent throughout the year is the value of virtual interactions. As you continue to perfect the art of virtual relationships, check out our recent blog post on how to most effectively participate in videos ... Jacobson Employee Spotlight – Q4 2020
Welcome to the Age of Zoom! It’s likely your day now includes at least one – if not back-to-back – video calls. The use of Zoom has increased more than any other brand during the pandemic. In this new way of doing business, the ability to make a virtual impression and build relationships through a ... Lights, Camera, Action! Putting Your Best Virtual Foot Forward
There’s no doubt all individuals have been affected by the past year’s events in a variety of ways. Especially as many employees begin to experience “pandemic fatigue” and some regions are again tightening restrictions, it’s important to ensure current practices are still working. Now is the time for insurers to rethink all areas of business, ... Energizing and Engaging Employees
As we approach the end of 2020, most insurers are preparing for annual reviews and beginning to set goals for 2021. The past year brought about many changes, and it’s likely your team’s projects and priorities evolved along with the shift in work dynamics. Day-to-day responsibilities were redefined, individuals had to lean into remote work, ... Performance Management in the New Reality