Patricia G Davis
Financial Advisor
Region: Eastern

Before becoming a Financial Representative, I was Director of Corporate Financial Planning for an investment management firm. I decided on this career because I wanted to apply my skills in the individual marketplace and help individuals achieve their financial goals.

 

The greatest reward in this career is helping clients gain control of their finances and giving them the tools necessary to provide for themselves, their families and their businesses.

 

This career has its challenges, too, such as the constant change in the industry and competition, from ongoing regulatory changes to constant introduction of new financial products or repackaging. We have to be able to sift through all of this and simplify the information for our clients as they hear the latest sound bites in the news.

 

Early in the career, my biggest challenge was meeting the right type of client and managing a 100% commission opportunity.

 

But along the way, I've learned there isn't anything I can't do and my earning potential is tied to what I think I'm worth - not a corporate "grid." Also, I've learned how rewarding it is to help people solve their financial puzzles.

 

I had a client that called to surrender their policy for their significant accumulated cash value to fund a retirement goal. They agreed to meet with me to review their entire financial situation, prior to surrendering the policy.

 

Based on our review, I suggested that they fund this goal with a different asset. Their attorney and other advisor agreed with me and they kept the policy in force. Six months later they were diagnosed with cancer and were no longer insurable. They were very appreciative that we had not surrendered their policy.

 

When I first started, my Managing Partner told me that I would know whether or not I could do this within the first six months. Going from a traditional salary to all commission was scary, but I was able to personally plan for the first six months and was pleased to know that I could do this!

 

I'm approaching my next milestone in this side of the business - five years. Also, I achieved Million Dollar Round Table and look forward to completing my credentialing of Certified Life Underwriter and Charterted Financial Consultant.

 

If you're considering becoming a Financial Representative, commit to the process and make sure that you love helping people take care of their family and reaching their goals. If you are willing to put your clients' needs above yours, you will be successful in this business.

 

Our company is differentiated because Northwestern Mutual is committed to a needs-based planning process and is willing to help you develop your own business and practice. If you are self-motivated, there is no holding you back. They have extensive training and resources available -- but you have to want to access these.

 

Finally, since we all come through the training the same way, there is a strong support system available. While we may compete with each other, we also all help each other develop ourselves and our business.

 

Anything is possible at Northwestern Mutual. If you find a mentor who you feel you can develop a positive relationship with, this can be a great opportunity. Take the upfront time to meet with other representatives in the office before you get started. The opportunity is fantastic but the required start-up effort, like any successful business, requires time, effort and a lot of sweat equity!

 

I enjoy teaching faith formation (CCD) to second-graders, raising my six-year-old son with my husband and golfing with the Meadow Larks.

 

Patricia Davis has been a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network since 2001. Visit her website to learn more about her, or call Patricia at 724-387-2755.