2023 gift-giving guide for the life insurance industry
The perfect gift for the data scientist, actuary or underwriter on your list.
For data scientists
Order from chaos
This simple desktop Galton board helps your favorite data scientists visualize order from chaos.
The Galton Board | $58
Less is more
Sometimes, data scientists need to be reminded to keep it simple, and a kitsch coffee mug does just that.
Nacho Average…Data Scientist | $18
Everything AI
Give your beloved data scientist even more reasons to geek out.
Amazon is offering free online training to fill the need for an AI-savvy workforce.
Amazon AI Ready | FREE
The paid subscription of ChatGPT includes beta versions of its chatbot that acts as a digital virtual assistant that’s way more talented than Siri.
ChatGPT Plus subscription | $20 per month
The latest in AI gadgetry debuts as a wearable, screenless smartphone with voice recognition that can project its display onto any surface. Who doesn’t need that?
Humane AI Pin | $699+
Data visualization
Edward Tufte, the original data visualization guru, offers his iconic The Visual Display of Quantitative Information, as well as online and in-person classes and an impressive collection of art. While you’re at it, Hogpen Hill Farms is Tufte’s 234-acre sculpture park and studio situated in northwest Connecticut. It’s worth a visit—make a weekend of it, but check their hours first.
Edward Tufte | price varies
There’s a great big world out there
Studies indicate that exposure to nature increases happiness, positive social interactions, cognitive abilities and reduces stress and psychiatric disorders, including depression. Get off your computer and head outside.
National Parks Annual Pass | $80
For actuaries
Tackling challenges at every opportunity
Because who doesn’t need more math problems to figure out?
Calculation wall clock | $25
A forward-thinking vision
We’d all like to see into the future, but actuaries are especially keen to know what next quarter’s results look like; their pricing plays a significant role in your bottom line.
Tarot card reading | prices vary
A valuable partnership
Just as an actuary understands the importance of a trusted partnership, pickleball is a relatively new phenom sport that celebrates communication, consistency, strength and trust between partners.
Pickleball equipment | prices vary
A broad view
Like actuaries, this telescope provides a broad, pinpoint-sharp view of objects far, far away.
Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ | $180
For underwriters
Mixed reality
Or maybe an escape from reality. The latest VR from Meta offers full immersion or blends reality with virtual worlds. “Seriously, in what reality do you not smoke?”
Oculus Quest 3 | $500
No touch
Some underwriters are skeptical about no-touch underwriting and with good reason. Encourage your favorite underwriter to start small.
No-touch thermometer | $16
No-touch car wash | prices vary
Navigate the unknown
Find your way without power, data or an engine. Outdoor Life has ranked the best compasses of 2023 and they’ll help you navigate an industry full of unknowns.
Compass | prices vary
Strength and balance
Balancing risk and reward is part of an underwriter’s responsibilities. Help them hone their glutes and quads as well.
Bosu ball | $25+
Mental health
Between constant change, new tools, data sources and expectations, it’s easy for underwriters to lose their heads. Headspace is an app that provides a lifelong guide to better mental health through meditation, mindfulness, coaching and therapy.
Headspace | $35 per year
Cool factor
Let’s face it: everyone in our industry could benefit from a boost in cool factor. Many Gen Zers turn their noses up at the insurance industry, but there are cool people everywhere.
Everyone looks good in a biker jacket, and they NEVER go out of style.
Biker jacket | prices vary
For those who may shy away from the 'no-regrets' tattoo on their forehead, a removable elastic sleeve or temporary tattoo will convince the most conservative of folks that you’re committed to attracting younger generations to the insurance industry.
Sleeve | $10
Temporary tattoo | $10
A gift for the future
Bees symbolize cooperation, hard work and wisdom, and their populations are in trouble. The right ecosystem not only supports bee populations, it connects you with nature (see the big world out there) and helps maintain a local food supply. What is good for bees is good for the environment, good for the community and good for you.
Pollinator seed mix | $5.45
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