As 2025 winds down, many insurance professionals are reflecting on their careers. They consider growth, work satisfaction, and new challenges. For those looking to move, waiting until January can delay progress. Acting now gives a head start and sets the tone for a strong 2026.
Recruitment is not always fast at the start of the year. Many decision makers take extended leave over the summer, and hiring processes can take longer than expected. If you wait until January to explore opportunities, securing the right role could be delayed for months.
The Advantage of Acting Now
Starting conversations in the final two months of the year allows professionals to position themselves before the new year rush. Engaging with recruiters, applying for roles, and completing preliminary interviews now increases the chance of landing the right opportunity and starting 2026 confidently.
Understanding the Market Landscape
The insurance sector in New Zealand continues to be dynamic. Demand for experienced brokers, claims specialists, and underwriters remains strong, but high-calibre talent is limited. While insurance professionals often stay busy in their roles, the recruitment process can be slower than expected. Many employers take extended summer leave, and hiring managers may not meet until later in January or February. By engaging with recruiters now, you can navigate these timelines strategically and avoid unnecessary delays.
Steps to Prepare Before Year-End
- Update Your CV and Profile – Highlight measurable achievements, portfolio growth, and technical skills. Use clear, concise, and action-oriented language to make your experience stand out.
- Clarify Career Goals – Decide what matters most: seniority, flexibility, team culture, or specialisation. Communicating your goals clearly to recruiters and employers increases your chances of matching with the right opportunity.
- Engage with a trusted recruiter – Reach out to a trusted recruitment Advisor and have early conversations. This proactive approach ensures you are considered for roles as soon as they become available.
- Schedule Interviews Strategically – Use the next two months to complete preliminary interviews. This allows you to secure your next role and start the new year ready to contribute immediately.
- Invest in Professional Development – Consider completing relevant ANZIIF courses, risk or compliance training, or certifications. Demonstrating ongoing development strengthens your profile and signals commitment to growth.
Why Early Action Matters
The final weeks of the year provide a unique window to plan strategically. Acting now avoids delays, positions professionals for the best opportunities, and sets them up for a strong start in 2026. Early action provides time to consider options carefully, negotiate terms confidently, and start the year in a position that aligns with both personal and professional goals. Taking control now is not just about career planning; it is about starting the new year ahead of peers, with clarity, confidence, and momentum.
Conclusion
Finishing the year strong means more than wrapping up 2025. It is about setting yourself up for success in 2026 by taking proactive steps today. Update your CV, clarify your goals, engage with recruiters, and start interviews now. The effort you put in before the new year will pay off in a smoother, faster, and more strategic career move. 2026 is approaching quickly. For insurance professionals ready to take the next step, the best time to start is now, not in January.
Find out more about Tyler Wren’s:
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