An insured can smell a new adjuster a mile away. All of us were new once, and we all know how frightening it can be on those first inspections. I want to share with you some do's and don'ts that will help you get through these and establish good habits.

Never tell an insured that you're brand new or that this is your first storm event.

Telling an insured this will automatically create an atmosphere of mistrust and uncertainty in the insured. And that will make your job more difficult.

Never discuss your personal problems or your personal life.

Its fine to chitchat...this puts the insured at ease, but keep it light. Remember you are there to adjust their loss. If for any reason you end up denying their claim or they are not happy with your assessment of the damage, THEY WILL repeat anything you have told them. Bottom line is you are a professional. Always conduct yourself that way.

Never give an insured a definite answer on something you are uncertain of, or commit to something you are unsure of.

If you don't know the answer, step away from them, go to your truck and call a manager either in the office or a field manager to get the answer. If you cannot reach someone then, tell the insured you will research it and call them back. Then find the answer and DO call them back. Never just make things up or try to wing it. It will come back to bite you later.

DO come fully prepared.

Have all the tools you need and pertinent paperwork with you, including policies.

Do present yourself in a confident (Not Arrogant) manner.

Do let the insured explain what happened and show you the damage.

Do make sure you do a thorough inspection.

Explain to the insured what the damage is and if it will be covered.

Do ask them if they understand and if they have questions.

Do give the insured your contact number in case they have questions later