Robert G Dibley, CLU, ChFC, CASL
Financial Representative
Region: Western

A Rewarding Career Shift
I was a British Army Officer for full career, retiring in 1988 as a Major. 

I had always been in finance and one day saw an advertisement for a competing company to consider a career in life insurance.  

I interviewed with several companies, but kept hearing, "Northwestern Mutual Financial Network is the best."  The Network was the only company to reject my application for "lack of courage."

So I joined them anyway and have never looked back.

A Real Help
In this career, I feel I am doing something that is of real benefit to people. 

This was exemplified in September of 2005 when a client, friend and neighbor died in a motorcycle accident. The first question I thought was, "Did I sell him enough life insurance?"

I did, and I felt very proud embracing his wife that day and being able to say, "Don't worry, you will be able to stay in your house, and your daughter can still go to college."

So far, all the other professionals have sent her bills. I gave her money.     
 
Overcoming the Challenges
The biggest challenge in the career is receiving all the no's over the phone, and meeting people at the parties who, after they ask what you do, immediately avoid further conversation.  

It's also challenging to stay motivated when you have had no sales for two weeks. 

Other challenges -- time management.

Early in the career, it's challenging to have the courage to make 25 dials a day -- every day. 

What I've Learned
Along the way, I've learned that I enjoy the respect that I have earned in the community. It's fun doing something that is meaningful to other people -- unfortunately often only appreciated after a disaster in somebody's life.
 
Notable Milestones
I have achieved Million Dollar Round Table Qualifying Member from 1993-2000 and Million Dollar Round Table Qualifying / Life Member since 2001. I would like to make Forum in 2006, and Court of the Table.

Sound Career Advice
If you're considering this as a career, get used to rejection. Make 25 dials a day, and follow the company training. Be persistent and stay polite. Don't burn any bridges.  

There are times when I think it might be easier to do something else for a living.  But there are other times when I am offered a great job by a head hunter and realize that I will no longer be my own boss and will not be able to take the extended vacations that I currently enjoy.  

The uncertainties of a commissioned profession are more than made up for by time off and freedom to choose one's own clients -- and after time, the renewals can add up!  Furthermore, my boss doesn't care if I earn more than he does.  
 
Our company is differentiated by its dedication, training, product and a professional sales force.
  
Outside of Work
I am a member of Rotary and various business groups. I hike with friends in the nearby mountains and play with my wife and family. When alone, I read or work on my old cars.

Robert Dibley has been a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network since 1989. Visit his website to learn more about him, or call Robert at 805-898-4400.