Strong communication is the foundation of every successful business relationship, yet it’s often underestimated as a soft skill rather than recognized for what it truly is – a strategic imperative.
That’s the message Helen Cosburn, vice president of strategic partnerships for North America at Allianz Global Assistance Canada, is bringing to this year’s Women in Insurance Summit.
As a sponsor and panelist at the event, Cosburn emphasizes that the ability to communicate with clarity, empathy, and purpose is not just a personal strength – it’s a business-critical tool for building trust, inspiring teams, and navigating the evolving insurance landscape.
At this year’s Women in Insurance Summit, Allianz Global Assistance Canada is hosting a panel titled “Communicate to Captivate” – a session designed to reframe how the industry views communication. For Cosburn, this isn’t just a talking point – it’s a passion.
“Strong communication is the foundation of every successful business relationship, yet it’s often overlooked as a soft skill rather than a strategic one,” she said.
The panel will explore the critical role communication plays in relationship-building, especially in a high-trust industry like insurance. From connecting with clients and partners to leading internal teams, communication is the glue that holds relationships together, Cosburn said.
Another important aspect she pointed out is the impact of technology, particularly AI, and how it’s reshaping the way professionals engage with each other. Rather than replacing communication, these tools raise the stakes for clarity, authenticity, and human connection, Cosburn stressed.
For those just starting out in the insurance industry, Cosburn offered a simple piece of advice: use your voice. Speaking up with clarity and intention, she added, is not just a matter of confidence – it’s a way to signal that you understand your value and are ready to contribute.
“When you’re new to the industry, or to a group for that matter, it’s easy to underestimate the power of your own voice,” Cosburn said. “But remembering that you were invited, you belong in the room, and that you have value to offer will help you step into your confidence and contribute in meaningful ways."
She stressed that effective communication isn’t about being polished or rehearsed. Instead, it’s about authenticity and intentionality – knowing what you want to say, why it matters, and delivering it with sincerity.
But confidence alone isn’t enough. In Cosburn’s view, the most impactful communicators are those who also know how to connect on a human level.
“Insurance is fundamentally about trust,” she said, “and trust starts with real conversations.”
That means listening with curiosity, showing empathy, and allowing space for genuine interaction – whether it’s in a client meeting, a team huddle, or even a short email exchange. The most memorable professionals, she noted, are not just those who speak well, but those who make others feel heard, respected, and understood.
“The beauty is, communication isn’t just about what’s said – it’s about how we listen, how we respond, and the non-verbal forms of communication too. The most important part is how we show people they matter and make them feel,” she said. At its core, she added, great communication is about making people feel valued.
Listening, in particular, plays an often underappreciated role. It builds credibility, fosters collaboration, and signals that we’re genuinely invested in the people we serve. For Cosburn, it’s this two-way dynamic – speaking with purpose and listening with intention – that forms the heartbeat of every successful business relationship.
Cosburn said that for her and the Allianz Global Assistance Canada team, the Women in Insurance Summit is about more than just dialogue – it’s about community.
The event represents a celebration of leadership, progress, and the shared commitment to building a more inclusive insurance industry.
“It’s about creating space for women to connect, inspire, and elevate one another across the industry,” she said. “At Allianz, we’re proud to support initiatives that align with these values and that’s why we’re the Women in Insurance Summit’s official event partner."
