ARM

[dcornett]

Hello,

I'm new to the insurance industry and am considering pursuing the ARM designation. There seems to be little information about it aside from the "bare facts" and stuff posted by the Institutes. What sort of firms or specific roles value this designation? How would you compare its "respect" level, compared to both the CPCU (and other Institutes designations) and other risk management designations such as the CRM, FRM, or designations/exams specializing in enterprise risk management? I would appreciate any thoughts on the matter.

[Big Dog]

The ARM is actually a very useful insurance designation/certification. Having this could open the door to work on the "client side" as a risk manager It's probably more recognized than the CRM/FRM/etc.

[dcornett]

The ARM is actually a very useful insurance designation/certification. Having this could open the door to work on the "client side" as a risk manager It's probably more recognized than the CRM/FRM/etc.

Thanks Big Dog. Since I'm new to the industry (and want to keep my underwriting options open, not just client-side), would it make more sense to get the CPCU or ARM first?

Is the CPCU recognized on the "client side" as well?

[gregsmith5]

I have both the CPCU and ARM. In my opinion both are good, but I find I USE what I learned in the ARM much more than CPCU.
The ARM helps me figure out a risk. CPCU is a good, general insurance education but it probably won't make you any more money unless your on the company side.

[dcornett]

I have both the CPCU and ARM. In my opinion both are good, but I find I USE what I learned in the ARM much more than CPCU.
The ARM helps me figure out a risk. CPCU is a good, general insurance education but it probably won't make you any more money unless your on the company side.

Thanks for replying. I'm actually on the company side. It's interesting to hear that the ARM helps you figure out risks-what sort of role do you have if you don't mind me asking?

I'm leaning towards CPCU right now since I believe it'll be more useful to me in my current position (which is very generalist). I have slightly less than a year of industry experience right now, and plan on pursuing a designation in the next month or so. What would you recommend in light of this?

[gregsmith5]

I'm in marketing and help agents write business.

[gregsmith5]

If you work for a company go for the CPCU - start with your strongest subject, take them in backwards order and take two at a time - you can whip through it in a couple of years.