| How I Got Here: As a college student, I got my start in this industry as an intern at Northwestern Mutual Financial Network. I had such a positive and successful experience as an intern that upon graduation I became a full-time agent at the Crystal Lake District Agency. Due to this positive experience, I quickly became involved not only in developing an active personal practice, but also developing the Northwestern Mutual Internship program is our office as well. I always had aspirations of being an athletic coach in the future and I was drawn to the management side of this business as a way to channel my coaching passion. Being someone that people around you look up to also holds you accountable to being a good role model and makes you practice what you preach. |
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Skills Needed: Skills needed for the job that are never listed in a job description: Ability to multi-task, time management, strong organizational skills, and the ability to self-motivate. You also must have the desire to succeed |
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| Advice: I enjoy my work everyday. I don’t feel like I go to work; it's more of my lifestyle. I don’t think that your job has to engulf your life because mine doesn’t. I have compete control over my schedule, which could also be a double-edged-sword if you let it be, but it also could be the best thing for you and your family long term. You must think of a few things when deciding what career you want to go into. I always think of the three I’s when thinking of this field. I think of the Independence that I will be able to enjoy with this job; I think about the Income potential that I have with this job, and last, the Impact I will have on other people. I always tell my clients that doctors save lives, and I save lifestyles. In my mind, there is no other career that I could go into that I would have more impact on the people around me then this one. You must have the attitude that everyone needs your services and know that every time you sit down with someone that you will leave them in a better place then when you met them. My advice to someone who is starting in this line of work is to work hard, stay motivated, have fun, and get involved. |
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Biggest Misconception: Being viewed as a salesman and not an advisor. And not being able to make money as well as the all-commission competition. (I look at it as getting paid what I think I am worth instead of what someone else thinks I am worth.) |