Travis Paul Stokes
Financial Representative
Region: Western

A Rewarding Career Choice 

I was a full-time student with the intention of starting my own construction company after graduation.  

 

I was in my senior year, graduating with a B.A. in business management, needing an internship, and heard about the internship opportunity through a talk during a summer class.  

 

I did the internship for selfish reasons; I needed the credit, wanted to learn more about the financial services industry and I wanted to make a little money at the same time.  

After the first semester, I thought, "This is pretty fun." After the second semester, I loved it and wanted to make this my career.  

I graduated in May of 2003 and signed my full-time contract July 1, 2003.

Rewards Outweigh Challenges
The greatest reward is the flexibility that I have with my schedule to do the things that are important to me and my family. I love that I can choose when to work and who I want to work with. Furthermore, the ability to help individuals, families and businesses achieve their goals and dreams is of high importance to me.

I find the greatest challenge is managing myself. This career is simple, but hard. I knew from the beginning what I needed to do to be successful, but doing it is a daily battle. It gets a little easier every day.

The ups and downs of a straight commission career are challenging too, not only money, but emotionally.
 
But I've learned how much potential I have to affect someone's life, even my own.
 

Making a Difference
Fortunately, I'm not sure I have a specific instance of someone needing to use their life or disability insurance yet. I know that the work that I have done with my clients has changed their views and habits, and I know that at some point in the future they will understand how important our relationship is.

Career Milestones and Some Career Advice
One of the best experiences I have had so far in my career was the time that I spent at the Fastrack academy.
 
If you're considering becoming a Financial Representative, don't let the straight commission scare you. I looked at this opportunity from the standpoint that rather than going into debt $200,000-$300,000 starting my own construction company, it would be the debt that I would accrue supporting my family while building my client and renewal base.
 
By far, the training and support along with the tools and products differentiate Northwestern Mutual from the others in the financial services business. 

If you don't know what this career has to offer, or if you have any interest in this career, don't let the opportunity pass you by without at least talking to someone at the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network. 

Outside of Work
I enjoy spending time with my family in whatever form or fashion. We love to go camping and enjoy nature. I am involved with my church and enjoy serving in whatever capacity that I am needed. I am also a member of the local chamber of commerce.

Travis Stokes has been a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network since 2002. Visit his website to learn more about him, or call Travis at 208-383-0210.