Michael S Youngdahl, CLU, ChFC
Managing Director
Region: Central

Making the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Decision
As a college student at Grand Valley State University, I was referred to a Financial Representative. I was selling Fuller Brush products door to door while in college, and the wife of a legendary rep introduced me to her husband. He eventually became my mentor when I started with the Network.

I find the greatest rewards are the independence and flexibility. You can broaden your mental and emotional horizons because of the diversity of clients.

The career has its challenges, too, such as staying focused amidst the overwhelming compliance issues and paperwork. In the beginning of my career, and even now, the challenges were financial solvency and maintaining a consistent stream of quality prospects.

Experience to Share
In this career, I've learned there are no shortcuts to success. It is a function of the quality and quantity of prospects you solicit.

There is risk and opportunity. Develop your client base properly with quality people, and expect to work more diligently the first 10 years.

This company is distinguished by integrity -- there's a strong client-centered value system throughout the entire company.

Understand your success will be a direct function of your capacity to take emotional risk daily based on the quality and quality of prospects you see, help and from whom you get referrals. Nothing more, nothing less.

Outside of Work
I enjoy golf and travel, and I'm involved in numerous non-profit/civic groups like the YFCA, United Way, hospice, Rotary and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. I've had seven little brothers in the last 28 years.

Michael Youngdahl has been a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network since 1970. Visit his website to learn more about him, or call Michael at 231-830-0904.