A Passion for People and Learning

The trajectory from college to a career can be a straight line for some and more circuitous for others. Michael, a receivables and collections administrator in NJM’s Treasury Department, took the latter path.

He earned an associate degree from Mercer County Community College, and a bachelor’s degree online through an arrangement the school had with William Paterson University. Michael worked in the business center of a supermarket chain managing employees in three locations while in high school and through college.

“It was a great opportunity for me,” he said. “I could work fulltime to earn money to pay for school while pursuing a degree. I tried biology and education before settling on psychology as my major. I’ve always been a people person and understanding behaviors had always intrigued me. One of the beauties of choosing a community college is it’s a less expensive way to find your passion.”

After graduating, he found that a psychology career was not in his future.

“I tried to get a job in behavioral health, but it was difficult to find one that offered career progression without an advanced psychology degree,” he said. “The supermarket was a great opportunity for me to learn business skills, critical management skills, and the importance of creating meaningful work experiences for staff.”

But Michael yearned for something new. He began work in a customer contact center for a large telecommunications company, handling sales, service, and tech support requests. While there, he learned the importance of selfcare, a healthy staff work environment, and listening to customers’ needs.

His next career change was with a national property casualty insurer.

“I worked the overnight shift for roadside assistance in a high volume call center for about five years,” he said. “It was an environment where 99% of the customers were stressed, panicked, afraid, or lost. It taught me a lot about providing the best customer experience possible and the importance of empathy for the customer.”

Michael grew up in Mercer County, so he knew about NJM and believed it was the right move.

“I wanted a career, the ability to grow, and job stability,” he said. “During my interview, the hiring manager asked if I planned to stay at NJM if hired. I responded with a strong ‘yes!’ and said I didn’t plan on ever leaving. It’s been more than 11 years and I would respond the same today.”

He began his NJM career as a licensed account representative in the Personal Lines Department, where he said he tried to personalize each call experience to let policyholders know they were his top priority. Finding his footing, Michael was promoted to associate underwriter and then senior underwriter.

“Underwriting was a great way to help me handle complex situations, help my peers, and do what I love — helping people determine the best insurance for their needs,” he said.

His career ascension within Personal Lines continued.

“I knew I could do more and applied for a supervisor position,” he said. “Being a supervisor was a great experience. I was able to make a positive impact on staff and encourage and empower them to advance their careers and shoot for the stars.”

Earlier this year, Michael began his current job and understands how NJM was his ultimate career destination.

“I have been fortunate to have the training and development NJM offers employees,” he said. I’ve created great working relationships with many of the personal lines trainers and with our talent and development teams. I would not be where I am today without the support from extraordinary supervisors and leadership members.”

NJM’s Tuition Assistance Program helped cover the cost of the master’s in business administration from Eastern University Michael expects to receive in late 2024. Also, he’s working on his Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation. But, he hasn’t let his psychology degree go to waste.

“I use it daily,” he said. “Psychology is the science of human behavior. Whether it’s interacting with a customer or a staff member, you must listen and ask important questions to discover the clues needed to resolve an issue.”

His diverse resume has given Michael an invaluable perspective of learning, self–worth, and striving to succeed. He offers this advice to prospective NJM employees.

“It’s okay to run your own race,” he said. “Never compare yourself to others. Starting over is just a new beginning — never a failure. And make sure your presence is always positive and with a smile. In your career journey you will encounter those who put ‘limits’ on your capabilities. However, only you can limit yourself, and believing in yourself will help you accomplish your career goals. Finally, always be open for opportunities to shine. A career is what you make it and it’s not bound by time.”

Are you considering a career move? Join us!

NJM Talent Acquisition Team
NJM Insurance Group
Careers@njm.com

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