Be warned.  A job as a private investigator dealing with insurance and insurance fraud can be very monotonous and detail-specific, but it can be quite rewarding.  You not only get paid to do a job you like, you also help the government and private companies avoid abuse from unscrupulous individuals out to twist the compensation system for workers.  Here’s how you can get a leg in as an insurance P.I.:

Make sure you have the experience.
Most companies or clients want to hire someone who has a track record in insurance-related detective work.  So if you have a background in insurance, you have a good chance.

If you don’t have the right training yet, you might want to begin in the insurance business first.  It’s not just about getting your feet wet, so to speak – it’s about getting a good understanding of the business.  Getting a job in insurance is also excellent for building a network of contacts – people you can turn to for help, assistance or guidance later on when you become a private investigator.

Get your license(s).
You will need to obtain a state-required license as a private investigator.  Otherwise, you won’t be able to work legally.  You might also want to get a license in more than one state.  That way, you can find more jobs and have better flexibility.  Some private investigators dealing with insurance related cases even have licenses in 5 states or more.

Get in touch with insurance companies.
Insurance companies are your lifeblood.  These people are the source of jobs for private investigators, primarily because they are the ones handling the claims and complaints. 

Prepare a professional resume and brochure to highlight your practice and send it to several insurance companies.  It should include your background, a list of clients you’ve worked with in the past (ask for their permission before you include them) and the types of assignment you are capable of doing.

Find a job at private detective agencies.
Many insurance companies prefer to work with established agencies, so you might want to send your resume in that direction.  Agencies have different requirements for insurance-related private investigator hirees, so be sure to check.

Check out job openings online.
This is a good jobhunting method to use especially if you’re a newbie and are working alone.  There are many online sites that regularly post job notices from employers.  These sites are free, by the way, or at least they should be.  You don’t have to pay a fee to find a job.

When looking for a private investigator job specializing in insurance, be proactive.  There’s strong competition going on in this industry and job growth is expected to be positive. 

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