Written by Mari Diaz
In this interview, Mari had the pleasure of sitting down with Kristie Fink, a claims adjuster at Sedgwick, who has made a profound impact on the lives of the injured workers she works with. With her compassionate approach and unwavering dedication. During the interview, they explored her experiences, her passion for the workers' compensation industry, and her insights on achieving a healthy work-life balance.
Mari Diaz: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today, Kristie. Let's begin by discussing a particular moment that left a lasting impression on you. Can you share an interaction with a client, colleague, or stakeholder that reaffirmed your commitment to your role as a claims adjuster?
Kristie Fink: Absolutely, Mari. There was a injured worker who was in distress when she first approached me. It was evident that she was overwhelmed by the complexities of the workers comp process. However, by lending a compassionate ear and providing guidance, I was able to calm her anxieties and make her feel comfortable. Witnessing her transformation, from a state of distress to a sense of relief, reaffirmed my purpose in this industry.
Mari Diaz: Your ability to connect with your clients is truly remarkable, Kristie. Can you tell us more about your current role in the workers' compensation industry and what you find most fulfilling about your job?
Kristie Fink: As a claims adjuster, my primary responsibility is to support and guide injured workers throughout their healing journey. What I find most fulfilling is treating each injured worker as if they were my own family. This personal touch allows me to empathize with their struggles and provide the assistance they need during challenging times. Knowing that I can make a positive impact on someone's life is immensely gratifying.
Mari Diaz: It's evident that you have a genuine passion for helping others. What do you envision for the future of the workers' compensation industry, and how do you see yourself contributing to its growth and improvement?
Kristie Fink: I believe that workers' compensation is an essential aspect of everyone's employed life. In the future, I hope to see increased awareness and understanding of the process among both employers and employees. To contribute to this, I aim to educate more people about their rights, benefits, and the overall workers' compensation landscape. By empowering individuals with knowledge, we can enhance the industry's growth and ensure that injured workers receive the support they deserve.
Mari Diaz: Your dedication to educating others is commendable, Kristie. Now, let's discuss what initially drew you to a career in the workers' compensation industry and how your passion for this field has evolved over time.
Kristie Fink: Interestingly, I stumbled into this position, but it turned out to be a serendipitous moment. As I began helping people and guiding them through their healing journeys, my passion for assisting others grew exponentially. Witnessing the resilience of individuals and their ability to overcome challenges inspired me to develop a profound love for this field. Today, I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.
Mari Diaz: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. How do you manage your professional responsibilities and personal commitments effectively?
Kristie Fink: For me, striking a balance involves conscious efforts to prioritize self-care and personal commitments. After a day of work, I often log off and head to the beach for a peaceful walk or go hiking. Additionally, I enjoy hosting dinner parties with friends, allowing me to unwind an
d create meaningful connections outside of work.
Mari Diaz: It's wonderful to hear that you prioritize self-care and leisure activities. Could you share a specific aspect of your job that you find particularly enjoyable or rewarding?
Kristie Fink: One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is engaging in conversations with claimants and hearing the healing in their voices. It's immensely gratifying to accompany them on their journey to recovery, offering guidance and support along the way. Witnessing their progress and the positive impact I can make in their lives is truly rewarding.
Mari Diaz: Preventing burnout is crucial in demanding fields like workers' compensation. What strategies or practices do you follow to ensure your well-being is prioritized alongside your work responsibilities?
Kristie Fink: I believe that taking breaks and indulging in activities that bring joy is essential to preventing burnout. Personally, I love to travel and explore new places, allowing me to unwind and recharge. However, I must admit that I am extremely passionate about my work, and my dedication fuels me. The sense of purpose and fulfillment I derive from helping others is a powerful motivator that keeps burnout at bay.
Mari Diaz: Your passion shines through your words, Kristie. In what ways do you see your role contributing to the overall workers' compensation landscape, and what impact do you hope to make in this industry?
Kristie Fink: As an initial point of contact for claimants, I consider my role pivotal in their experience with workers' compensation. My aim is to demystify the process and ensure that injured workers find it easily understandable and approachable. By providing personalized support and fostering a sense of trust, I hope to make a lasting impact on their lives and contribute to the overall improvement of the workers' compensation industry.
