Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Assistant Underwriter Roles – 2025

As an assistant underwriter, you play a vital role in the insurance industry, helping to assess risk and determine coverage for clients. To help you prepare for your next interview, we’ve compiled a list of questions and answers that will showcase your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the industry.

General Questions

• 1. What motivated you to pursue a career in underwriting?
  I have always been interested in the insurance industry and was drawn to the challenging and analytical nature of underwriting. I enjoy using data and information to make informed decisions and help clients protect their assets.
• 2. Can you walk me through your experience with underwriting?
  I have been working as an assistant underwriter for the past 3 years and have gained valuable experience in assessing risk, reviewing policies, and communicating with clients. I also have a strong understanding of insurance policies, regulations, and guidelines.
• 3. How do you stay updated on industry trends and changes?
  I regularly attend seminars and workshops, participate in webinars, and stay connected with industry experts through networking events and online forums. I also make sure to stay updated on any changes in regulations and guidelines.
• 4. How do you handle high workloads and meet tight deadlines?
  As an assistant underwriter, I have learned to prioritize tasks and effectively manage my time to ensure all deadlines are met. I also have strong organizational skills and am able to multitask efficiently to handle high workloads.
• 5. How do you handle difficult or demanding clients?
  I understand that communication is key in managing difficult clients. I make sure to listen to their concerns, address any issues promptly, and offer solutions to ensure their satisfaction. I also maintain a calm and professional demeanor to diffuse any tense situations.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What software or tools do you use in your underwriting process?
  I am proficient in using underwriting software such as Risk Assessment and Rating Tools, as well as Microsoft Excel to analyze data and make informed decisions. I also have experience in using customer relationship management (CRM) systems to manage client information.
• 7. How do you assess risk when reviewing a policy?
  I start by analyzing the client’s history and information, including their claims history, credit reports, and any other relevant data. I also consult with my team and refer to industry guidelines to make a thorough assessment of the risk.
• 8. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to make a difficult underwriting decision?
  In a previous role, I had to deny coverage for a client due to their history of multiple claims and high-risk behavior. I communicated my decision clearly and provided the client with alternative options to help mitigate their risk. It was a tough decision, but I believe it was in the best interest of the client and our company.
• 9. How do you handle cases where a client’s policy needs to be revised or updated?
  I first review the client’s policy and identify any necessary changes. Then, I communicate these changes to the client in a clear and concise manner, explaining the reasons for the revisions and how it will affect their coverage and premiums. I also make sure to address any questions or concerns they may have.
• 10. How do you handle confidential information and maintain the trust of your clients?
  I understand the importance of confidentiality in the insurance industry and follow strict protocols to protect client information. I also ensure that all necessary confidentiality agreements are signed and adhere to company policies and industry regulations.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you describe a time when you identified a potential risk that others had overlooked?
  In a previous role, I noticed a pattern of high-risk behavior in a client’s claims history that had gone unnoticed. I brought it to my team’s attention, and after further investigation, we discovered that the client was not a good fit for our company’s underwriting policies.
• 12. How do you handle conflicts within your team?
  I believe in open and effective communication to address conflicts within a team. I make sure to listen to all perspectives, maintain a positive and respectful attitude, and work towards finding a solution that benefits the team and the client.
• 13. Can you give an example of a time when you had to work under pressure to meet a deadline?
  In my current role, I had to complete a large number of underwriting assessments for a client’s policies in a short amount of time. I prioritized tasks, worked efficiently, and sought support from my team members to ensure all assessments were completed on time.
• 14. How do you handle constructive criticism?
  I view constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve and grow. I make sure to listen attentively, ask for clarification if needed, and take the feedback into account when making decisions in the future.
• 15. How do you prioritize tasks and make sure all necessary steps are completed?
  I use a combination of time management techniques, such as creating a to-do list and setting reminders, to prioritize tasks and ensure all necessary steps are completed. I also communicate with my team and delegate tasks when necessary.

Situational Questions

• 16. What would you do if a client presented with a claim that doesn’t meet your underwriting guidelines, but the client is insistent on being covered?
  I would first explain the reasons why we cannot provide coverage and try to find alternative options for the client. If the client is still insistent, I would consult with my supervisor to determine the best course of action that aligns with our company’s policies.
• 17. How would you handle a situation where you discovered a mistake in a policy that was already approved?
  I would immediately bring it to my team’s attention and work towards finding a solution, whether it be correcting the mistake or revising the policy. I would also communicate openly and transparently with the client to explain the situation and offer any necessary support.
• 18. What would you do if a client became aggressive or hostile during an underwriting assessment?
  I would remain calm and professional at all times and attempt to diffuse the situation by actively listening to the client’s concerns and providing solutions. If necessary, I would involve my supervisor or seek guidance from a more experienced team member.
• 19. How would you handle a situation where a potential client provided false information on their application?
  I would thoroughly investigate the information and, if confirmed to be false, reject the application. I would also report the discrepancy to my supervisor and follow any necessary protocols to maintain the integrity of our underwriting process.
• 20. What would you do if you discovered a client was committing insurance fraud?
  I would follow company policies and report the fraud to the appropriate authorities. I would also work with my team and the client to gather all necessary information and evidence to support our findings.