Tom Goris, CLU, ChFC
Managing Partner
Region: Central

I was a financial analyst for a venture capital/LBO firm. I decided on this career initially because of the goal for independence (professionally and personally).  

 

The greatest reward in this career has been how it has helped me grow as a person (father and husband, plus professional) because of the constant need to develop stronger interpersonal skills due to the nature of our business.  

 

On a daily basis I still love the personal freedom and the ability to favorably affect the lives of others.
 
The career has its challenges, too, such as battling rejection in the early years and the short-term cash flow fears wondering "if it would all work out" over time. It was challenging just having the continued courage to take additional business risks.
  
But over time I have learned that I can be resilient and that I have the ability to take risks.

A Time I Made a Difference
I remember the time when delivering a death claim to a father of a young child; the father had lost his wife and the family's primary wage earner to cancer.  

The death claim proceeds gave him the flexibility to take some time off and prepare for a solution that could sustain stability for himself and his young family going forward.

Notable Milestones
It's a career milestone of mine to watch people realize their potential in our wonderful career -- especially those who are career-changers that left careers they did not find fulfilling.

Career Advice
If you are ready to make a commitment similar to going to law school or med school, and have a long-term vision you are passionate about that incorporates helping people, you should talk to us.

I feel we are more client-centered than our competitors and as a result adopt a better process versus pedaling products.
 
It is the best career I know of if you have the right profile and are truly seeking an opportunity that will challenge you to grow personally and professionally.  
 

Outside of Work
I enjoy spending time with the Boys & Girls Clubs, Children's Service Society of Wisconsin, Alma Center and church.

Thomas Goris has been associated with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network since 1988. Visit his website to learn more about him, or call the network office at 414-224-5000.