Shopping for the best insurance rate deal can be a frustrating experience. For example, an article in Forbes, “What Really Goes Into Determining Your Insurance Rates?,” reported that women pay less for car insurance based on a set of factors that determine women are a better risk than men. Younger drivers pay more than older ones because, statistically, younger drivers have more accidents. The article refers to a New York Times study that showed that a married, female homeowner with a professional job and a college degree paid 68% less than a single female with a high-school degree who rented a home in a modest income area.
While you might say, “Unfair!” to this blatant discrimination, the article points out that by signing on with an insurance company you’re agreeing to play by their rules. It’s your choice. But using a lot of non-driving factors to determine rates doesn’t seem fair. Who can control their gender or age? Instead of focusing on factors outside your control, the article suggests paying attention to things you can control to keep your rates down.
Like purchasing car insurance, there are many factors for a successful job search. Job experience, education, skill level and even extracurricular activities can influence an employer. Some factors like age, appearance, marital status and health can help or hinder your search, depending on the job and company culture. When you apply for a job, you not only get the job but the company handbook, culture and other rules and regulations. Borrowing from control factors for insurance rates can help with a job search.
- Control Your Speed. Too many speeding tickets can muddy up a background check. Changing jobs too often can also make a negative impression. Some jobs just are poor choices, but changing jobs after a few months multiple times labels you as a “job-hopper.” Why should an employer go to all the time and expense to hire and train someone who, in the past, hasn’t stuck around very long. Twelve to 18 months on a job, if you’re moving up to a better position with more responsibility, is reasonable.
- Never Drink and Drive. Good advice, period. Many jobs require employees to drive company vehicles or have their own reliable transportation. A DUI on your record could exclude you from the company’s insurance policy and cost you a job. Work-related equipment like forklifts and even some golf carts require operators with driver’s licenses. Drinking and driving isn’t worth the risk and could cost you a promising career.
- Take Advantage of Discounts. Some insurance companies give a discount if you take a defensive driving course. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement for courses related to your job or any company-related position. Take advantage of learning opportunities. Work hard to get the highest benefit-level possible. The courses you take at one job may be just what you need to land the next one.
- Examine Your Coverage. If you’ve been in a job for a while, your resume may need an upgrade. What made you employable 15 years ago may not make it if you want to change companies or survive an acquisition or management change. Technology is changing quickly. Read job descriptions for positions at your level or above. Could you compete in today’s market? Don’t be left behind. Fill in the gaps.
Proactive wins over reactive every time. True, you can’t control the economy, the unemployment rate, the Affordable Care Act, or what the legislators are doing in Washington, D.C. Instead of feeling like a victim of circumstances beyond your control, focus on the things you can do to make a difference in your job search. Look for ways you can swing the odds in your favor.
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