Finding a job in the actuarial market 1.Structure of the local actuarial market 2.Regional actuarial work 3.How to approach your career 4.Technical skills in demand 5.‘soft’ skills 6.Resume writing 7.How to find an employer 8.Approach letters 9.Winning at interviews

Structure of the local actuarial market – IAAust total membership

Structure of the local actuarial market – by discipline

Structure of the local actuarial market – future trends Key practice areas for future development are: Investments Banking & Finance Health Financial Planning

How does a new area become a real opportunity?

Regional Actuarial work

How to approach your career Think critically about your own strengths Consider what skills are required Work on areas that need development but are essentials Try and ensure your first job is in a business area that you are really interested in Ask lots of questions!

Technical skills in demand Depends on where you want to be – geographically! E.g Life in Asia, GI in Australia Strong academic background a must Evidence of understanding of current techniques and industry issues Technical confidence Systems skills e.g. SAS

‘soft’ skills in demand Communication Initiative Enthusiasm Focus on your future

Resume writing Put yourself in recipients place Always include competency based examples Demonstrate achievements – can be social or Uni orientated Focus resume to where you are now, covering letter to where you want to be Bullet points Specific skill sets – set yourself apart Put TER on

How to find an employer Institute web sites Industry newsletters Recruitment companies University contacts Alumni Friends and relatives Newspapers

Approach letters Give information not on the resume Reasons why you want to join them – research! Give ‘clues’ to your personality Always write it yourself but get it peer reviewed and spell check Address to the correct person, in the right way, and correct job opening

Winning at interviews Relax! Research the company – thoroughly Website and google articles Think about why you want the job Demonstrate answer with a competence Be enthusiastic and positive Listen carefully, take your time to answer if necessary Be honest Concentrate on connecting on a personal level Thank them for their time (read the handout)

The handouts Detailed interview technique notes Information about the Asia market So you want to work overseas? Weblinks Slides Feedback form