The job market has evolved dramatically over the last decade—not only in how people work, but in what they expect from their employers. Today, benefits like health insurance, disability coverage, and long-term financial protection are no longer perks; they are essentials.
On the program GET THAT JOB, host Sindy Thomas spoke with insurance expert and Susman Insurance Agency founder Karl Susman to explore how insurance connects to employment decisions, HR policy, and long-term financial stability. Their discussion revealed that understanding benefits is now just as important as negotiating salary.
The Overlap Between Employment and Insurance
Job seekers often focus on title, pay, and responsibilities, but the benefits package frequently determines the true value of an offer.
“Insurance isn’t just protection for your car or your house,” Susman said. “It’s part of your compensation and your financial security. Too many people overlook that.”
For employers, benefits are a powerful recruiting and retention tool. For employees, they are long-term financial planning instruments. Misunderstanding coverage can lead to costly mistakes—either by overpaying for protection or being dangerously underinsured during emergencies.
Health Insurance as the Cornerstone of Benefits
Health coverage remains the most sought-after workplace benefit and one of the most misunderstood. Employer-sponsored health insurance typically costs less than individual plans due to group risk pooling, but it often comes with less flexibility.
“The key question isn’t just ‘What’s covered?’” Susman advised. “It’s ‘What are the limits, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums?’ Those are what really affect your paycheck.”
Thomas emphasized that confusion over deductibles, coinsurance, and HSA eligibility leaves many employees making uninformed choices during open enrollment. Effective HR teams must go beyond offering benefits and ensure employees truly understand how to use them.
An informed workforce saves money, reduces absenteeism, and improves overall productivity.
Disability and Life Insurance: The Overlooked Protections
Disability and life insurance are often ignored until a crisis occurs. Short- and long-term disability coverage protect income when illness or injury prevents someone from working—yet many employees do not fully understand how these benefits function.
“Disability insurance is paycheck insurance,” Susman said. “If you can’t work for three months, what’s your plan? That’s where this kicks in.”
Employer-provided life insurance usually equals one or two times annual salary—enough for immediate expenses but rarely sufficient for long-term family security. Susman encourages workers to consider portable individual life policies that remain in force if they change jobs.
The Expanding Role of Human Resources
HR departments have evolved beyond payroll and compliance into roles as educators, advocates, and strategic planners.
“The biggest change I’ve seen,” Susman noted, “is that HR isn’t just about hiring and firing anymore. It’s about retention through value—and that value often comes through benefits.”
Modern HR teams analyze employee needs, integrate wellness initiatives, and negotiate smarter insurance contracts. Employers who prioritize benefits strategy often see higher morale, stronger retention, and better productivity.
Thomas added that ongoing training is essential for HR teams as insurance regulations and healthcare mandates continue to evolve.
The Gig Economy and Insurance Coverage Gaps
Freelancers, independent contractors, and gig workers operate largely outside traditional employer-based insurance systems.
“When you’re self-employed, you are your own HR department,” Susman explained. “You’re responsible for health insurance, disability, retirement, and liability coverage.”
These workers face higher premiums, no employer subsidies, and complex tax considerations. Susman recommends professional associations, group-style marketplace plans, and umbrella liability policies to help close protection gaps for self-employed workers.
Insurance as a Career Path
The insurance industry itself offers strong career stability and growth potential. Susman emphasized that insurance careers extend far beyond sales.
“There’s underwriting, claims management, risk assessment, compliance, and customer service,” he said. “Every one of those roles needs skilled professionals.”
Thomas highlighted that insurance remains a relationship-driven industry, offering opportunities for both analytical and people-focused professionals in a rapidly modernizing environment.
Benefits Questions to Ask in Job Interviews
Candidates often hesitate to ask about benefits early in interviews. Susman says those questions are not only appropriate but essential once an offer is likely.
Key questions include:
- What percentage of the health premium is employer-paid?
- Is short- and long-term disability insurance offered?
- Is there an employer match for retirement contributions?
- When do benefits begin after hire?
Thomas stressed that job offers should be evaluated holistically, factoring in benefits, leave policies, and retirement—not just salary.
The Need for Continuous Benefits Education
Insurance products and regulations change constantly. Employees and HR teams alike must stay informed.
“It’s not enough to sign up once a year,” Susman said. “People should review their policies regularly—not only when something goes wrong.”
He recommends annual insurance reviews with an independent advisor to identify coverage gaps. Thomas added that benefit workshops and Q&A sessions during open enrollment can dramatically improve employee understanding and satisfaction.
A Shared Responsibility Between Employers and Employees
Insurance and HR share a common mission: protecting people and financial stability.
Employers protect their workforce. Employees protect their families. HR professionals ensure compliance and organizational health. Insurers protect the financial foundation beneath it all.
“It’s all connected,” Susman concluded. “Insurance isn’t a line item—it’s part of how you build resilience.”
Final Thoughts
The conversation between Sindy Thomas and Karl Susman highlights a clear reality: insurance literacy is now essential for both employees and employers.
In today’s job market, understanding benefits can be the difference between long-term security and financial vulnerability. For HR leaders, benefits education builds trust and retention. For individuals, it’s an investment in peace of mind.
Whether you’re hiring, hunting for a job, or reviewing your own coverage, the message is clear:
Insurance isn’t just paperwork. It’s empowerment.
