A Step-By-Step Guide to Applying for an Apprenticeship

Are you considering applying for the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship programme? These are the steps you’ll need to take.

1. Register your interest

First, register your details to join the list of interested candidates. Once you do this, we will notify you as soon as employers come on board and jobs become available so you can be one of the first to apply.

You can register your interest simply enough by visiting earnandlearn.ie.

2. Check the entry requirements

As the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship is a level 8 honours degree programme, there are entry requirements you must meet for entry to the course. We always advise interested apprentices to do this first. All apprentices must be at least 18 years of age to enter the programme.

Aside from the academic entry requirements, individual employers may have specific entry requirements too – so it is essential that you check all of that information before applying and tailor your CV to highlight the experience you feel best fits the advert.

3. Do your research

The Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship allows you to choose which stream of insurance you wish to work in – general insurance or life insurance/financial advice.

Working in the general insurance sector involves claims handling, underwriting and direct client advice. When you work in general insurance, you’ll be dealing with areas such as home insurance, motor and health, as well as commercial insurances like property or liability insurance. If you choose this stream, you’ll earn the Certified Insurance Practitioner (CIP) designation in addition to your level 8 degree.

If you choose to go down the life insurance stream, you will work in areas like mortgages, investments, pensions or financial advice. If you choose the life route, you will earn the Qualified Financial Adviser (QFA) qualification in addition to your degree.

4. Prepare your CV and cover letter

Once you have decided which stream you would like to work in – or the role you would like to apply for – you will need to write an excellent CV and cover letter. You must apply directly to the hiring company and follow their application process. Some employers will require you to email your CV and cover letter. Others may have online application forms for you to complete.

Regardless of the application method, you will need to ensure that your writing is clear and concise and that you communicate clearly your key skills and competencies. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Make sure to tailor your CV or answers to the job you’re applying for – a generic CV won’t cut it!
• Have someone proofread your CV and cover letter before you click send – getting a second opinion can help as we aren’t always the best at singing our praises.
• Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects what you are saying in your CV. Social media channels are one of the first places recruiters look to verify your credentials.

5. Choose your employer

There is no limit to how many roles you can apply for. Just remember to tailor your CV to each company. Then, when choosing the employer, ask yourself the following questions:

• What size of a business do I want to work for? Am I better suited to a small Broker firm or a large multi-national?
• Am I willing to relocate to another part of the country for my apprenticeship?
• Do I want to work in life or general insurance?

All of these factors will play a part in your application process. Keep an eye on our Job Bank for open positions.

Note: You don’t have to wait for advertisements to go live - you can approach local employers yourself to find a position. Head to the Brokers Ireland website and use their ‘Find a Broker’ tool to search for insurance companies in your area.

6. Prepare for the interview

If an employer is impressed with your CV and cover letter and you meet all of the entry requirements, you will hopefully be called for an interview. Whether you are just starting out and this is your first interview, or if you are changing careers and are an experienced interviewee, there are lots of techniques you can practice to ensure you impress on the day.

• Research the company beforehand and be prepared to talk about what they do, their products and their values
• Dress to impress. Even if you are not sure of the business dress code at this point, always dress in business attire on your first day.

7. Receive a job offer and get started

If all goes well at the interview, you may then be offered a place on the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship by your employer. The employer must confirm placement with The Insurance Institute. Congratulations!

Register your interest now at earnandlearn.ie.