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Internship
25 Results
Walwyn,
Bryan
CLTC
Hard Work, Focus Pay Off
Financial Representative, Northwestern Mutual-Houston, November 2009 - present
Financial Representative Intern, Northwestern Mutual-Houston, May - November 2009
Financial Representative Intern, The Boston Group, May 2008 - May 2009
I said I wanted to become a financial advisor before going to college but didn’t know how to do that – it was a blessing in disguise to fall upon the Northwestern Mutual internship. My football scholarship to the College of the Holy Cross got me out of my comfort zone in Houston and really opened my eyes up to the possibilities that I could achieve. When I got the internship in Boston, I tried to transfer my work ethic from football to the career at Northwestern Mutual.
Interning in a city where I knew no one was the hardest thing I’d ever done, especially because I am very results-oriented. I was working hard without seeing many fruits of my labors. Once I got smart and started reaching out to all the alumni in the city, I had some success and was intrigued about the rest of the career. After the summer, while I was away from the office playing football, I always called in and kept the relationship strong. When I graduated, The Boston Group put in a good word for me at Northwestern Mutual-Houston, where I finished out my intern contract. I quickly realized the comforts of doing this job where you know people and did pretty well.
This is a great long-term career opportunity that is essentially building a business. It also is something where you learn from so many intangibles, like being able to work with professionals on a day to day basis, hold a solid conversation with a client or sit across the table from a millionaire. This is delayed gratification – it is something you build with discipline over time.
Interning in Boston was my best Northwestern Mutual experience so far because I went through the hardest situation first and it was exponentially easier to succeed where I have a natural market. Holy Cross alumni were all friendly and always willing to meet and give me career advice, but I didn’t meet with anyone I knew in Boston. Regardless, I created opportunities everywhere -- the number of people you meet is impressive and I uncovered a lot of options as a result of contacts I made.
“Learn to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations.” I was told it is key to this job and I found myself more confident in doing things like speaking an opinion in class and talking to teammates. This job trains you for so many different things in life.
My first year as a full-time financial representative ended about two weeks ago and I’ve accomplished every first-year accolade I wanted to accomplish. It was definitely all due to the experience I gained from the internship. I was able to come out with a full-head of steam and hit the key milestones. I’m now a college unit captain so I have the opportunity to give back to the internship program that helped me to accomplish everything I’ve accomplished in the career. I hope to be a direct influence on other students who were in my position.
I am a very results oriented person who needs to know what I am doing is manifesting itself in something today or for the future. Seeing results drives me and pushes me beyond my limits. The internship process taught me to get rid of perceived limitations – why can’t I do it and do it earlier? I know I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.
After growing up in an area where it wasn’t cool to do the right thing, I want to give back to the community to help kids see that being smart and educated and making good choices is cool. I did some work with Big Brothers and Big Sisters in Boston and now am working with U.S. Dream Academy to become a mentor in Houston.
Visit Bryan Walwyn’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
Barnhart,
Timothy
CLTC
Managing Director
Timothy Barnhart was a full-time student when he participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program.
Timothy Barnhart shares his thoughts on his career.
I was active in my campus community and was the president of the student body my senior year. I decided on this career because of the long term opportunities it provided me with three aspects of my life that were very important:
- Autonomy and freedom of time
- Ability to impact people's lives
- Ability to have an income relative to the work that I put into the business
The greatest reward is helping people achieve their goals and being thanked by clients when they realize that you've helped them.
One of the greatest challenges in being a financial representative is consistently doing the things that you need to do, some of which many people don't enjoy, such as phoning, prospecting, etc. This business is all about discipline and consistency. Controlling the ups and downs of the business and keeping the balls in the air can be challenging. There are a number of things that you do in this business that you have to do every day and when you don't do those things, it makes your life much more difficult.
I had to persevere and continue to do those things every single day. This career has shown me that I'm able to do anything that I put my mind to. If I work hard enough, and smart enough, anything can be accomplished.
I once had a client who purchased disability income insurance as well as a term insurance policy. Later he was in a major car accident. His disability was covered by his disability income policy. Also because he had elected to purchase additional benefits, his life insurance premiums would also be waived and his term insurance would have the opportunity to convert to permanent life insurance.
He has since become a great friend, and it was incredibly rewarding knowing that I was able to help him maintain his lifestyle based on the products he purchased.
This can be the most rewarding and fulfilling experience, but only if you work extremely hard. There are people who will help you do this but it's ultimately up to you. You either get it, or you don't get it. You're provided with incredible training and an unbelievable opportunity. Again, it's based on how hard you work. In my opinion, this is the best opportunity in the world.
Visit Timothy Barnhart’s network office website to learn more about his career and to find out about the career opportunities available through Northwestern Mutual.
Baron,
Juan
CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®
Impact, Income and Opportunity at an Early Age
Managing Director, October 2012
Financial Advisor/Field Director, October 2008 - September 2012
Full-time Financial Representative, May 2008 - October 2008
Financial Representative intern, April 2005 - May 2008
It’s tough to imagine doing anything else – as this is really the only job I’ve ever had. As interns, we have a great opportunity at an early age. I was able to make a huge impact in helping families protect themselves financially and make an income that would have taken me 10 or 15 years to achieve in other traditional jobs. I also was lucky to get connected early on with a company that aligned with my values.
After all the uproar in the financial services industry, I can sleep well at night knowing Northwestern Mutual is going to back up the promises I make to my clients.
There is no downside—the internship is a win-win-win. When I started as an intern, I was fairly certain I wasn’t going to do this as a career. I wanted to have real-world experience on my resume that would help me get into the business school of my dreams. If I had stuck to my plan and just used it as a resume-builder, that would have worked, too. But I got into it, enjoyed it and had some success.
I can’t think of another internship where you can test-drive a career, build a practice, and gain some income during school. If you have an interest in being entrepreneurial, what better way to stick your toe in the water than the Northwestern Mutual internship?
The internship helped me mature as a person – I went from a typical college student who stays up late hanging out with friends to having the responsibilities of a financial representative. But I think this career has taught me more about myself than anything else. The business really forces you to look inward and figure out what motivates and drives you, what your strengths and weaknesses are. As a financial representative, you have to motivate yourself and to motivate yourself you have to know yourself. It is by far the most challenging and rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
It was being able to purchase my own home in Marina del Rey, California, at age 22. I’d had the goal for a long time and when I bought my house I realized that I would never have had the opportunity at this young age if it wasn’t for this career. It reminded me that I can be independent and, if I work hard, the sky is the limit to my opportunity.
My managing director in North Carolina, who is my hero and mentor in the business, told me that structure creates freedom. It seemed counterintuitive at first, but the idea is if you are disciplined with your time and structured with your day, it gives you a great deal of freedom to do what you want to do. I complain that I’m young and have so many responsibilities. But that structure and work ethic have given me the opportunity to do things I want to do.
I am actually introverted and not very comfortable meeting new people. Calling on people doesn’t come naturally for me, I have to work on it – and the idea of making calls to random strangers was very scary for me early on.
So it is important to understand that you can still make it in this business, where you have to prospect and call on people you don’t know, even if you are not a social extrovert.
In addition to his role as a financial advisor, Juan Baron is a managing director of one of Northwestern Mutual’s district network offices.
To learn more about Juan Baron and a career as a managing director, visit his district network office website.
Bergland,
Jesse
CLU®, ChFC®, CAP®, CFP®
Managing Director
Jesse Bergland was a student at Carlson School of Management when he participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program.
Jesse Bergland shares his thoughts on his career.
I heard about the internship program when I attended a career fair. I wasn’t from the Twin Cities area so I didn't know if I could do the internship program or do it well. I ended up getting the power of 10 Network award and decided now was the time to try out the career and see if it could work as a full-time career.
One of my greatest rewards has been the network of people I’ve developed. Socially, my wife and I have made many good friends and built relationships out of the people I’ve met through his work. It's great to be around so many successful, motivated, and creative people. If not for this job I'd probably still be hanging out with the same five people.
Trying to find a balance is one of my greatest challenges. I have clients, need to prospect for new clients, move on to bigger and better clients and projects, and recruit new interns as a college unit director. I found that I can handle more than I thought I could. I have two staff members, am married, and now live in a condo in downtown Minneapolis (all by the age of 25).
I keep a "feel-good" file. Sometimes when things just aren't going well it's nice to look back on unsolicited emails from clients, thanking me. I haven't had any clients die or have major injuries, but for example, just looking at a couple emails from clients thanking me for helping ease their minds and helping to give them greater control over their futures. It feels good to help other people feel better about their lives and various situations.
This career can give you everything you want, but you have to be willing to put in the effort, long
hours, and hard work. As long as you can give it what you need to upfront, you'll be fine.
Visit Jesse Bergland's local office website to learn more about his career as a Manager Director.
Brown,
James
CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CLTC, LUTCF
Wealth Management Advisor
James Brown was a college student at Illinois Wesleyan University and participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program during his senior year.
James Brown shares his thoughts on the internship experience and his career.
The internship experience helped me determine this was the career for me.
I find it rewarding to be able to make such a difference in the lives of my clients and those depending on them. I really enjoy the relationships I maintain with so many of my clients.
The career has its challenges, too. Other so-called expert advisors that are competing for the client's business make it difficult sometimes for the client to know who to trust. It's also challenging to seek out and develop all of our clients one at a time. This involves a lot of rejection. But along the way, I've learned I have the courage and follow-through skills to provide a lifetime of service to my clients.
I was instrumental in getting disability income insurance sold to a client whose brother was also in our business but with a competitor. Twelve years later the client became disabled, receiving a large initial payment for partial disability not previously claimed, and ongoing full disability payments that have kept him and his family in their lifestyle, paid for college, a wedding, all without his spouse having to go to work outside the home.
It can be difficult but no more so than any other worthwhile career. It provides you with the opportunity to develop into the type of professional your clients really respect and count on. I had no idea it would be so rewarding when I chose it.
Many changes have occurred in my 28 years in the business, and now we can be of help to clients with all their needs related to living too long, dying too soon, and becoming disabled. More recently our entrance into the investment business and long-term care insurance has really increased the range of what we can help our clients accomplish.
We never have to apologize for the quality of Northwestern Mutual products. We also have the tools that continue to improve to provide great service for our clients. Northwestern Mutual is committed to us as their exclusive distribution system.
Visit James Brown’s website to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor.
Chadwick,
Kevin
Managing Director
Kevin Chadwick was a student at Texas A & M University when he participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program.
In addition to his role as financial representative, he’s a managing director with Northwestern Mutual-Austin.
Kevin Chadwick shares his thoughts on his career.
Being a field director has allowed me to participate in the management side of the business. I hope to become a managing partner in the future and run my own network office.
My greatest reward is being able to work with different people on a day-to-day basis. What I appreciate the most is the freedom I earn to be with my family when they need me. I am my own boss.
This is a long-term career opportunity. You are building a practice. You won't be successful overnight. Staying disciplined to your goals is always a challenge. Early on, I found my first sale challenging, and it was difficult to work with clients who don't understand about the need to take of their families.
In my career experience, I learned I am not as disciplined as I thought I was. But when I delivered my first death claim two years into the business, that's when I really saw what this business is all about: helping people.
Through my clients, there is a billion dollars of life insurance in force. That can impact the world.
Understand this is a long-term business opportunity. You have to care about people and about helping them with the problems they face.
Northwestern Mutual does the right thing. We care about our clients as if they were family.
Visit Kevin Chadwick’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
Condrey,
Michael
CLU®, ChFC®
Managing Partner
Michael Condrey participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program while he was a student at Vanderbilt University in 1979.
Upon graduation from college, he became a full-time financial representative.
He worked his way through management positions. In 1981 he became a managing director in Huntsville, Alabama and was then appointed as a managing director for eastern North Carolina. He now serves as the current managing partner for the Carolina Condrey network office and oversees district network offices in Chapel Hill, Wilmington and Greensboro.
As a managing partner, he’s now in a position to offer internship opportunities to students in the greater Raleigh area.
Mike Condrey talks about his decision on selecting to start his career with Northwestern Mutual.
After graduation, I debated leaving when I received other offers. I was convinced that Northwestern Mutual would give me the independence that I wanted, the income I needed for my family and the ability to help make an impact on people and the community.
Visit Michael Condrey’s network office website to read more about his role as managing partner and learn about a career as a financial representative.
Dill,
John
CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, AAMS®, CRPS
Wealth Management Advisor
John Dill was a senior at Bradley University when he participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program.
As a Wealth Management Advisor, John helps other financial representatives with his specialty in investment products and services.
John Dill shares his experience with his career.
I find the greatest reward to be the unlimited potential and control over my time and schedule.
As with starting in any business, the first five years are challenging. A financial representative needs to be able to handle rejection, work hard and have the ability to be paid based solely on performance. Early in the career, gathering clients and generating credibility as a new representative is challenging. Along the way, I've learned that hard work and determination will reap rewards.
Another representative and I insured a young, married, soon-to-be father in his 20s who died three weeks after the life insurance application was written. The policy had not been approved yet by our corporate home office.
After obtaining medical records, Northwestern Mutual approved the coverage, and we delivered a check for $750,000 to his pregnant widow, who was on bed rest. In the tragedy of his death, we were able to provide stability to their life.
Today, his young widow is opening a business with some of the money that he provided for her.
This is a fabulous career! Our company is differentiated by its integrity, sense of family, its products, process and prestige.
Visit John Dill’s website to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor.
Dobbs,
Joseph
CLU®, ChFC®, CLTC, CASL®
Financial Representative
Joseph Dobbs started his career as a financial representative by participating in Northwestern Mutual’s internship program.
Joseph Dobbs talks about his career and offers career advice.
I find the greatest reward to be the ability to work within my community with a wide array of people and businesses. The daily gratification of my career is the flexibility to schedule work and family time as needed.
The greatest challenge is that you'll never manage anyone tougher than yourself. Early in my career, the biggest challenge was understanding that I was laying the groundwork for a successful career with each prospect I met and with the daily habits I was forming.
So far, I've learned that procrastination does not solve anything.
I’ve completed over 20 years in the career. If you're considering becoming a financial representative, work hard, persevere, and learn from those around you.
Our company is differentiated because we believe relationships and identifying needs comes first, and solving the need with our world class products comes second.
Visit Joseph Dobbs’ website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
Downs,
Chuck
CFP®
Managing Director
Chuck Downs was a junior in college when he decided to participate in Northwestern Mutual’s internship program.
Chuck Downs offers his perspectives on the career and how he became interest in financial services.
Growing up, the man with the biggest house in our neighborhood always sponsored and coached his kids' teams and was very well respected in our community because of some families he had "saved" through his insurance business.
Wealth, freedom, impact and prestige all looked good then and still do today.
I've found the biggest reward to be the relationships that I share with my clients by helping them achieve financial security for their families and their businesses.
The career has its challenges, too, such as the consistent personal and professional growth that I've had to commit to in order to survive and thrive running my own practice. Early on, the biggest challenge was the self control and self discipline that one must be willing to commit to in order to be successful. But I've learned that you grow as a person in direct proportion to the demands that you place upon yourself.
In my second year in the business, I was referred to a young couple starting their careers and family. We did a comprehensive life insurance and disability income insurance program for them that also included policies for each of their three children.
Two days after delivering their policies I received a call from the referrer that their four-month-old had died of SIDS the day before. It was a very emotional situation to be involved with. The husband thanked me for my help and went on to say that because of the $10,000 policy, they did not have to borrow money and be reminded monthly about it to pay for the funeral expenses.
First, embrace and learn our proven system. Second, approach people in your community with the desire and attitude of getting to know them, of understanding their goals and dreams, and then assist them in achieving those goals and dreams. Third, leverage the experience and knowledge of experienced financial representatives through joint work and case consultation.
This career is great for people that enjoy no-limit thinking, are driven by positively impacting others and who are motivated by challenges.
We're differentiated in a few ways. First, our corporate office has taken our century-old mission to heart. This could also be described as a corporate office that didn't try to reinvent the wheel and of knowing true north.
Second, all major decisions have to measure up ultimately to one simple question: Is it in the best interest of our clients? Third, the character traits of the people, both in the field and in the corporate home office, are dominated by integrity, ethics, honor and responsibility.
In addition to his role as a financial representative, Chuck Downs is the managing director for the Miami district network office.
Visit Chuck Downs’ Miami office website to learn more about Chuck and a career as a financial representative with Northwestern Mutual.
Erhard,
Keith
CLU®, ChFC®, CLTC
Managing Partner
Keith Erhard was a finance major at Illinois State University when he participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program.
As managing partner, Keith now offers the same opportunity to other college students as managing partner of a network office.
Keith Erhard shares his thoughts on his career.
I thought I wanted to work as a stock broker but I was captivated by the impact of the financial representative position and found that more appealing than pitching stocks.
The milestone of having the honor to serve the policyowners as managing partner in Des Moines at the age of 32 was significant. Also my twentieth year of service in 2004 also had significance. The ability to say that this company was the only one I have represented over my professional career at retirement will be the one I look to in the future.
I see the biggest reward in helping people address financial problems that are asymptomatic. Most people have such problems that fester below the surface. The problem comes to light when the unthinkable occurs. I feel it is a very noble profession to help people address these financial problems before it is too late.
There are three big challenges to this career: believing there are many people in the marketplace that could use a conversation with me, believing the value of our products, and believing in myself.
The turning point in my career was 1994. That year was my 10th in the business. Northwestern Mutual paid claims on three people who didn't seem like they were supposed to die: a 10-year-old girl, a 34-year-old woman, and a 37-year-old good friend of mine, Bill.
Bill's claim had the most impact because it was the first time I had worked with a widow and friend on financial issues. She said something to me in this process that I will take with me to the grave. She said, "You are the only person who could get close enough to Bill to help him buy life insurance." It was then I realized the magnitude of my profession.
Systematize your opportunity at self-employment. Remember that success is as simple as three, four, five: Keep three appointments per day. Get four favorable introductions each working day. And finally, stay on the phone each day calling for appointments until you set five.
What distinguishes Northwestern Mutual is the commitment to always do the right thing, a principle that has been guiding this company since 1857. Our value of mutuality is unique. Also unique to the Northwestern Mutual is our insurance financial strength ratings from the four major rating agencies.
We do powerful work when we help our clients and prospects align their intentions with their actions. If you want to make a difference in your community in a most profound way, explore the opportunity with Northwestern Mutual.
Visit Keith Erhard’s network office website to learn more about his role as managing partner and about a career as a financial representative.
Forth,
Brian
CLU®
Managing Director
Brian Forth was introduced to the Northwestern Mutual internship program through a student athlete career advisor at Arizona State University.
Brian Forth shares his thoughts on the career.
I've found the greatest reward is controlling your own professional destiny. This is accomplished through your continuing education, personal development, dealing with adversity, and limitless financial opportunity.
On a day-to-day basis, I find the biggest challenge is forcing myself to be consistent in things like phoning and getting referrals. Early on, it's challenging to gain consistent activity with target market prospects.
But at the end of the day, I've learned you control your professional and financial development.
When a client tells you that he or she sleeps easier knowing that if the unthinkable happens, someone has taken the time to help their family continue their lifestyle, I know I make a difference. Understand that this is the best company to work for if you're willing to put the effort into this career and be a highly productive financial representative.
This company offers great products and excellent training. We have so many ways to help a prospective client accomplish their financial goals and dreams.
In addition to role as a financial representative, Brian Forth is a managing director and part of the management team at Northwestern Mutual-Newport Beach, the network office located in Newport Beach, California.
Visit Brian Forth’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative with Northwestern Mutual.
Funk,
Mark
CLU®, ChFC
Managing Director
Mark Funk entered the Northwestern Mutual internship program because “there was no other business opportunity at the time.”
Mark Funk talks about the internship experience and his career.
Before I became a Financial Representative, I was a full-time college student, worked as a grade-checker on a road construction crew, and also had a couple part-time on-campus jobs. I decided on the Northwestern Mutual internship program because I needed some business experience on my resume and it was the only local opportunity offered at the time.
I began as an intern, and realized very quickly that this was a perfect career opportunity, so I threw out my college resume, and focused on building a strong client base.
The greatest reward has to be the help that we provide for our clients with high quality products in the marketplace. Daily, I try to leave as many people as possible in a better position than they were before I met them.
The greatest challenge has been keeping up with all the regulation changes, paperwork, and licensing changes on a regular basis. And early on in the career, because staying active is crucial to success, it was critical that I was extremely active with phoning and prospecting in the first few years.
Along the way, I learned that I can make a difference in a big way. That's why I'm here. I have been able to help many people save for events that would have not been possible if I weren't there.
You must be very active in the early years, and your most important thing to do each day is get three or more new appointments on the phone, no less. Northwestern Mutual is distinguished from the others in the financial services business because we ask the questions first, then assist our clients.
It's a great career for the right person.
Visit Mark Funk’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
Hershey,
Spencer
Jr.
Growth and Opportunity
Financial Representative
The skills I’ve developed from this opportunity are huge. When I was still in the first month of my internship and deciding if this was what I was going to do, I was improving on skills that would help in any career – like time management, organizational skills and communication.
I decided to become a financial representative because I love the opportunity to run my own practice, meet new people every day, and have a chance to impact somebody’s life by helping them build a financial plan that one day they can be proud of. I want the opportunity to work hard and get paid for my work.
Like most people, I started off with friends and family as clients and did a lot of joint work. My goal is to work with the higher-income market. Now, as a team leader, I do a lot of joint work with incoming interns to help them learn the process and benefit from my experience.
As an intern, I worked full-time both summers, and during the school year I take about 18 credit hours and work about 30 hours a week. I have always believed in my abilities, but with this experience I have become a lot more comfortable in situations. I see myself step up and communicate in class more – and my self-confidence has improved.
People who seem confident and can carry themselves professionally will have success with the Northwestern Mutual internship. If you are looking for a nationally acclaimed, Top 10 internship*, the experience you get from this is exceptional. It gives you a chance to run your own schedule, meet with your own clients and manage your own practice – it’s a great opportunity.
Attending the Annual Meetings in Milwaukee, the regional meetings and the winter camp experience were the best. It was great to see that I was working for a strong company that is the best in the industry. Overall, I really enjoy meeting new people and having a chance to somehow positively impact their lives.
Follow the Granum principle. When I started out I didn’t know about the career and people in my office talked about Granum – it’s a formula already established and if you follow it you will have success. I did that and reaped the benefit from it. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, you just have to jump on the game plan, believe in it, give 100 percent and good things will come.
Spencer isn’t the only member of his family in the insurance business. He’s trying to recruit his older sister away from a competitor, where she sells insurance, and his Mom is an underwriter who would want to work for Northwestern Mutual if it didn’t involve moving four states away from their Northeastern Ohio home!
Visit Spencer Hershey Jr.’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
* "One of America's Top Ten Internships, 1997-2012" Vault Guide to Top Internships, 2012 edition.
Janka,
Chuck
ChFC®, CLU®
Wealth Management Advisor
Chuck Janka was in Northwestern Mutual’s internship program before becoming a full-time financial representative.
Chuck Janka shares his thoughts on the career.
What distinguishes us from the others in the financial services industry is that we are all about helping clients achieve financial security. Also, Northwestern Mutual has integrity in all its business dealings.
The greatest reward in this career is helping people work toward their financial goals, while the greatest challenge is meeting new people on a consistent basis. Early in the career, it's challenging to overcome the financial hardships caused by not having a consistent paycheck. But along the path of this career, I have learned I can overcome many challenges successfully.
I made a difference in someone's life with my first life insurance death claim for a client who left a wife and two young children. It allowed them to stay in their house and for the mom to continue to be a stay-at-home mother.
Look at all your options and consider the long-term benefits of being in our business. It's a career that provides great freedom and flexibility along with a good income potential.
Visit Chuck Janka’s website to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor.
Kierulff,
Kyle
Financial Representative
Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, Kyle worked at an accounting firm, and managed their on and off site storage.
Kyle is a graduate of California State University, Long Beach with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance Management and is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon alumni association.
He started his career through the Northwestern Mutual internship program with Northwestern Mutual-Newport Beach in Newport Beach, California. In addition to his role as a financial representative, he now serves as a college unit director for Northwestern Mutual-Newport Beach.
Kyle Kierulff shares his thoughts on his career.
The most rewarding thing about being a Financial Representative is how important I am to the people I work with, and the impact I can make in their lives.
On a daily basis, I enjoy being my own boss. The greatest challenge is also being my own boss, and learning how to run a practice like a business.
Today's challenges are still working the fundamentals of the business, and getting in front of as many quality people as I can on a daily basis.
My time in the business has made me more confident in front of clients.
Northwestern Mutual truly cares about its policyowners, financial representatives, and employees.
Visit Kyle Kierulff’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
Parsons,
David
CLU®, ChFC®
Managing Director
David Parsons participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program six months before graduation.
David Parsons offers his insights on choosing Northwestern Mutual and his career.
While interviewing for other potential career opportunities prior to graduation, the recruiters were always impressed that I was associated with Northwestern Mutual.
I stayed with Northwestern Mutual because I wanted to control my own career path, the level of my compensation, and pick where I wanted to live.
I've found the greatest reward to be the impact I have had on clients' personal lives and their businesses.
With great opportunity, there also comes great responsibility. As a financial representative, you must stay focused on the daily tasks that are necessary to be successful long term. Early on, the greatest challenge is attempting to stay focused on the critical daily activity that is necessary to build a successful practice, and not let the freedom we enjoy be the reason for failure.
In the early years, I tell financial representatives that if you work very hard and follow our system, you will earn the freedom that comes with this career.
I've learned that I enjoy making a difference in someone else's life. Being able to help someone accomplish their financial goals has been very fulfilling.
As a managing director of a district network office for Northwestern Mutual, being able to offer the Northwestern Mutual opportunity to others has been fun. I have really enjoyed watching other financial representatives take the opportunity presented them and become successful.
Another financial representative and I worked with a local business owner to help him accomplish his goals. In working jointly with the business owner's attorney, the business owner's goals were accomplished. They are noticed every day in my community and will be for generations to come.
This career is not for everyone. It takes a certain type of person to accept that he or she alone is responsible for future success. If you have a real desire to control your own destiny and make a difference in people's lives, this career could provide a unique opportunity. For the right person, this career offers an incredible business opportunity and quality of life. Any person with a burning desire to be in business for himself should invest some time and go through our Mutual Selection Process.
Visit David Parsons’ district network office website to learn more about him and a career as a financial representative with Northwestern Mutual.
Roush,
Aaron
CLU®, ChFC®
Wealth Management Advisor
Aaron Roush became a financial representative after graduating from college after two years in the Northwestern Mutual internship program.
Aaron Roush shares his thoughts on the career.
I decided on this career because I wanted to directly impact people's lives. I interviewed with approximately 10 other leading financial services companies and found that they focused on monetary rewards for me more than any other aspect in the interview.
When I interviewed with Northwestern Mutual, they spoke about impact on people's lives and about providing people with life-time security through world class products. The company's focus on the client greatly appealed to me.
The greatest reward has been helping people achieve their goals and having people sincerely thank me for the work I have done for them. I don't think I could find that gratitude anywhere else except being a medical professional and healing people.
The career has its challenges, too, such as managing my time effectively and dealing with the freedom that this career creates. And early in the career, it's difficult to establish credibility. I think being with a respected company like Northwestern Mutual helped me be more credible in front of clients.
I am not surprised at my actions, but it is nice to know that while I get paid on commission, I have never once felt swayed to recommend a product because I wanted to make the commission. You worry that you may become biased, but I think Northwestern Mutual does a good job of providing us with third-party information to keep us well versed in what is available for our clients.
Recently I was working with a young woman of 63 years. She was a recent widow and her husband had handled most of the finances during their life together.
She was extremely worried about retirement and ready to sell her house and move into a trailer park to avoid running out of money. Over the course of 10 or more meetings I was able to talk to her about her situation and bring her to a level where she felt very comfortable about her situation.
In the meeting following her actual retirement and review of all we were doing, she sincerely thanked me as tears welled up in her eyes. It was a great feeling to know how much she appreciated the work I was able to do for her.
Discuss the position with as many people as possible and try the internship. This career is a great responsibility, but is greatly rewarding. Northwestern Mutual is differentiated from the others in the financial services industry by the needs analysis we do with the clients' it's more focused on protection than anyone else out there. It's far too easy to just talk investments with clients and ignore the important aspects of death or disability.
I also think our compliance department is phenomenal compared to other companies out there. I see that as an advantage, especially when I hear about others in the industry who are subject to fines for violations.
Visit Aaron Roush’s website to learn more to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor with Northwestern Mutual.
Spengel,
Keith
CLU®, CLTC, CFP®
Wealth Management Advisor
Keith Spengel was a student at the University of Iowa and participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program during junior year.
Keith Spengel talks about his career.
I had worked in the food industry and construction previously and decided on the financial business after graduation in 1990.
The greatest reward in this career has been personal growth. Challenge and opportunity are what get me excited every day.
The greatest challenge in this career has been meeting new people, staying up to date regarding education, and cash flow.
Early in the career, it's challenging to keep a positive outlook during stressful times.
Almost everything I have learned about myself, I have learned while with Northwestern Mutual.
When my brother passed away at age 47 survived by a spouse and three boys, I realized the immeasurable value of what we do.
Keep a positive attitude, work hard and do the right thing every time.
This business is like a grindstone. It can either grind you down or polish you up. The result depends on what you are made of. It's a great opportunity if you face your fears.
A culture of people who know they are part of something more important than themselves is what differentiates Northwestern Mutual from the others in the financial services industry.
Visit Keith Spengel’s website to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor.
Spizzirri,
Wendy
CLU®, ChFC®, CLTC
Financial Advisor
Wendy Spizzirri began her financial representative career by participating in the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network's internship program.
Wendy Spizzirri talks about her internship and shares her thoughts on the financial representative career.
While in college, I interned with Northwestern Mutual. It was such a wonderful experience that after school, I decided to become a full-time financial representative.
The greatest challenge for me has been to constantly motivate myself to higher levels. Having that positive attitude is the most important thing to being successful.
If you are willing to work hard and be devoted, all of your dreams can come true.
For me, the greatest reward has been the independence and the difference I have made in clients' lives over the past 7 years.
This career is a great one. It is not for everyone, but if it is for you, it can be so rewarding. It is all about giving before you get back. In my mind Northwestern Mutual is a family and they truly do what is in the best interest of the policyowner.
There are going to be tough days when nothing seems to go your way, but just keep reminding yourself that it will get easier.
Visit Wendy Spizzirri’s website to learn more about her career as a financial advisor.
Steffen,
Paul
CLU®, , ChFC®,
Vice President, Agency
Vice President, Agency, Milwaukee, 2008 - present
Regional Vice President, Milwaukee, 2006 - 2007
Managing Partner, Springfield, MA, 1990 - 2006
Assistant Regional Director, Milwaukee, 1988 -1990
College Marketing Spl and Assistand Director, Milwaukee, 1984 - 1988
Financial Representative, Latham, NY, September 1982 - 1984
Financial Representative Intern, May 1981 - September 1982
As a finance major with an accounting minor, I never thought I’d be selling financial products, but Northwestern Mutual really impressed me. They had a very formal internship curriculum, they were very well organized, I liked the people I met with, and there was a way to get paid. I interned my entire senior year in college and went full-time in September after graduation.
The internship was great – I learned so much about myself, about the world of work; so much about communicating in a professional way to prospects and clients about their financial needs and issues. I learned it’s important to first seek to understand before being understood. And if I did what I was taught to do in training, people would listen to me.
I’ll never forget calling on a man in his 60s who was a college professor. He was the first really mature person I had spent any time with. Going through the process, I found he had some needs and I was stunned that he ended up buying from me. Finally, when I delivered the policy, I had to ask him why he would do something like this with me. He said, “This is probably a really good sale for you, right? And I’m an important client for you?” When I energetically agreed, he said, “I bought from you for two reasons: number one, you did a good job, you answered my questions and you earned this business. But more importantly, I know you are going to take good care of me.” He gave me a great gift – I walked out of there thinking I had something unique to offer.
The reason you should do this is that most internships out there are just jobs – file that, research this – but ours is an experiential internship. The purpose is to give each candidate an opportunity to test drive the financial representative career. It’s not a simulation, it’s the real deal. Two things happen – you get to list relevant and real experience on your resume and it sets you apart from a lot of other smart people who may be competing for the same job. Secondly, if you learn you like this and have aptitude for it, what a head start. It is a win-win—you get to try it, and either decide it’s not for you and have wonderful experience, or decide it is what you want to do and create a significant head start.
There are multiple things. As a field person, I learned pretty quickly that I didn’t have to worry about this company, and that’s a big deal with so much abuse of the consumer by the financial sector. I took great comfort and found it to be frankly unique that we had this benevolent mutual company that would actually put the interests of the clients first. When you are making promises that have to last 50-60 years – it’s very comforting that you don’t have to worry about the company that stands behind those promises. I am very fortunate and very lucky – I could have ended up anywhere but I ended up in a place where honor, character and values matter.
The other thing is you are provided the opportunity to grow everyday – the company has provided the venue for lifelong learning and career-long growth. Embedded in all of that are these lifelong relationships with people I never would have known or met if not for the way we interact, learn and grow together.
The highest honor I’ve received in this company is the opportunity to lead a network office – only 80 people do that in the entire company. To be responsible for a group of financial representatives, to attract people into this career and be responsible for their training, growth and development is a very high honor. In some ways I am now doing the same job here in Milwaukee for the distribution system.
You only learn when you listen. I learn nothing when I’m talking. This career really is about asking the great questions and keeping yourself quiet and in tune with answers to the point you know what makes people tick and what their issues and values are. Then, armed with all of that, how do you tailor something for them that can make a difference in their life?
I collect baseball memorabilia. I’m most proud that I have something signed by every living member of the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Stroud,
Cristi
CLU®, ChFC®, CASL®, CLF®
Career Growth with a Family Feeling
Chief Development Officer, 2011
Managing Partner, Providence, RI, 2006 - 2011
Managing Director, Bethesda, Maryland
Intern and College Unit Director, Coral Gables, FL
I loved the Northwestern Mutual internship and can still remember my first annual meeting being a phenomenal experience – I’d never seen so many people. Since then there have been so many special moments, like being recognized at regional meeting for personal production, being the first in my office to make Second 60, and having the leading intern team on stage at the Annual Meeting when I was a college unit director.
What stands out for me most about Northwestern Mutual is that people truly care about you and you achieving your individual goals. I’ve worked in three offices, and each one has felt like my family and been supportive of my family at the same time. My oldest daughter went to her first Annual Meeting when she was three years old and my other daughter just attended her seventh annual meeting at age 6. No matter what, I feel like if I went anywhere across the country I feel like I have family there.
The fact is, in the financial representative career you can dream big and really achieve it. I grew up with nothing – I never would have imagined I would have the lifestyle I have now. This career has allowed me to achieve things that I never could have dreamed about before. Plus, everyone has been so supportive of my goals and what’s best for me as an individual.
There is always help when you need it at Northwestern Mutual. Even as a managing partner, I could call colleagues or people at the home office. There is always someone to help you figure out problems and challenges if you just reach out to them.
On a personal level, the best advice I received is that you have to take time for yourself, otherwise you’re no good to anyone else. And for the business, follow the Granum system.
When I started at Northwestern Mutual, I was in my early 20s, life was all about me and I was the center of my world. Now, nothing is about me – it’s all about my reps, my staff, my network office, I’m a mom and a working person.
I’m competitive and I like sports but I also know how to sew – the fact that I’m very artsy crafty surprises people.
Visit Cristi Stroud’s website to learn more about her career as a financial advisor.
Sturges,
Luke
Wealth Management Advisor
Luke Sturges participated in the Northwestern Mutual internship program while attending college in Denver, CO.
Luke Sturges talks about his internship and his career.
My internship provided a great platform that allowed me to test drive this business as a career and to assess whether or not I thought I would be successful at such a venture. After entertaining other offers after graduation from Miami of Ohio, I decided that this is what I wanted to do long-term and that I would give it a go.
The biggest reward is seeing the "ah ha" moment in a client's eyes. We work so hard to understand who they are and what they want to accomplish, and then work to design recommendations that fit with that. When they see those recommendations and understand how their plan can work on efficient scales they never thought possible, that's when I really feel our time has impacted their future and life.
The first few years you are simply overwhelmed by the massive amount of information being thrown at you, and all the different ways you can help someone. You want to be an expert in everything as quickly as possible, but that just isn't feasible in today's highly complex and highly regulatory financial services world.
It's difficult, but you have to be honest with your clients and let them know "Hey, I'm not an expert in this area, I suggest we bring in a specialist who can help us through the details." However, the biggest challenge to being a wealth management advisor is not being able to help as many as you would like. I feel blessed to know all that I do and how to apply it, and it's often difficult to contain that excitement with a new client.
It's been an experience that is tough to describe. This career and company continually challenge me to be better at what I do, and do more for those I care about. I've learned I have gears of excellence that I didn't know existed, whether its trying to fit in time to mentor others, or continually improve my game by being the mentee. This career demands that you make sacrifices, but the payoff in the end is something I would never trade back or let go of, as it's more satisfying to me at the end of the day than anything else I can imagine.
This career has many feel-good stories, and working in the insurance world, most of those stories tend to come during the most difficult times for a family. I was the product of a family who lost the bread winner to a debilitating injury and that ultimately took his career away.
Seeing my family struggle through that disability, but then recover financially when the life insurance company stepped in to pay his disability claim, is something that will forever be imprinted in my mind. Without that disability income policy, life would have ended up very different. We would have left our small mountain town, where I was raised, for cheaper cost of living elsewhere; and there would have been no money for college or anything else for that matter. Fortunately however, because of his strong sense of duty to his family, the once not-so-interesting disability income policy my father bought from Northwestern Mutual years ago turned out to be the best decision of his life. Knowing that I'm now someone who helps put families' financial fears at rest gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment.
This is a fantastic career to be a part of. You can be assured at the end of the day that you will feel that you have contributed and made a mark on your community as well as those you care about. We don't sell widgets, we help provide financial security to families we care about. It's tough in the beginning to grasp that concept and really believe it, however if you do the activity necessary in the beginning of your career you will be rewarded for years to come.
This career allows you the flexibility and freedom to achieve your goals on your time table. There's no waiting for promotions or working hard for little or no recognition. There's simply 52 weeks a year for you to go be as productive as possible with your time and to spend it however you want. It can be filled with seeing and servicing clients, spent with family and loved ones, or a combination of the two. Whatever your goals may be, this career allows you to chase them.
Northwestern Mutual is the type of company that strives to do one thing, and that is what's best for the policyowner. There is nothing here that goes on that you second guess, as everyone involved does all they can to better Northwestern Mutual. Our mutuality is our core, but our culture sets us apart. "People join people," and there is no doubt in my mind that the people associated with this company are the very best at what they do and that they always put the client first.
Visit Luke Sturges’ website to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor.
Swainsbury,
Alex
Generous Culture, Outstanding Products
Financial Representative
I’m a big believer in prospecting to build personal relationships. If I can help bring value to clients and their lives or businesses, I know I can make a lasting impact. I have confidence that I will, based on the high quality products that Northwestern Mutual can provide in this country.
Genuinely knowing that you can bring value to someone, and the directness and confidence that brings, is the key to success in this business. Whether you are with someone who is very successful or just starting out, knowing you can have an impact for them makes a big difference. Any time you can truly express you are only there to help them understand their options and understand their own goals and dreams, people feed off of that. It doesn’t mean you have all the knowledge in the world, but people want more of it.
When I first started I did all joint work, and depending on the capacity and resume of my client I would try to work with either an advisor or wealth management advisor. Now I have two people in my office I partner with on more complicated cases.
The generosity and culture of the Northwestern Mutual really stands out in my experience so far. It doesn’t matter where you are – I’ve been to offices in several states – the culture is strongly about giving back and helping clients with the world-class insurance products and services we offer. The people are very encouraging and supportive – it’s not the easiest career to get involved with but that constant support and attitude really help.
If you seek to have independence and a professional atmosphere, and you want to have personal relationships with people you work with, I don’t think anything else would work as well as the Northwestern Mutual internship. If you seek management and leadership roles, there are tremendous avenues to move into leadership positions based on your abilities as a producer.
Definitely the Annual Meeting. It’s an amazing experience to be where 10,000 people congregate to celebrate what Northwestern Mutual does for its clients and to advance that and to share stories and motivation. It gives you phenomenal perspective of the industry and the company you’re associated with.
We’re always motivated to do something, and you have to choose what you want to be motivated about. We have the final decision in every situation. This career has difficulties, but it is only hard when you choose to make it hard. We have the final decision over how we want to move our practice.
As a result of the internship, I have a deeper understanding of business and a deeper appreciation for independent business owners and what is required to be the owner of a company rather than just a paid employee. It has made me realize that I absolutely never want to ever just get paid a salary. I want to be able to be compensated for results and when that is done in the right way it is productive.
I made it to the finals of the British Open golf tournament in 2007 at age 19. My original scholarship to Oklahoma City University was for golf but since then I’ve also had scholarships for track and rowing.
Visit Alex Swainsbury’s website to learn more about his career as a financial representative.
Whistler,
James
J.D., MSFS, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Wealth Management Advisor
Before becoming a Financial Representative, James Whistler was part of Northwestern Mutual’s internship program.
James Whistler talks about his experience with Northwestern Mutual.
Through my last year of undergraduate school and all through three years of law school, I was an intern for Northwestern Mutual.
The trust and appreciation of my clients is the real reward of this career. On a daily basis, clients and prospects share their life stories and reveal their values, goals and even their fears. Being able to work with clients on this level is the real calling of a Financial Representative, and the psychic income far exceeds financial income.
The career has its challenges, too. Learning to really listen to clients and understand their needs and desires before making recommendations of the vast variety of strategies and products is a challenge. Actually running a practice which meets the needs of our clients is continually challenging.
In the early years I struggled with balancing three areas of learning to be in business for myself, learning products and strategies available to clients, and actually making a living. Learning how to overcome adversity and accept rejection have been valuable lessons. In three situations, my Northwestern career has given me the opportunity to take the high road and always keep the best interest of my clients as first and foremost. Self-discovery of my strengths and weakness would have occurred in few other careers.
After a thorough analysis of the situation of a small business with five partners, I worked with other advisors to implement a business purchase agreement funded with life insurance coverage. Unfortunately, one of the partners was accidentally killed within six months. The insurance proceeds allowed the business to redeem the stock without hardship, and the stock purchase gave the decedent's family the ability to continue their life in the same style as before the accident.
Being with Northwestern for over 37 years, I reached the survival milestone. Having qualified for Northwestern Mutual's top 20 Financial Representatives multiple times, I believe I have succeeded financially.
Educationally, with two master's degrees and a law degree along with multiple industry designations, I am able to serve my clients. I have learned to balance my life with my career, which was a big milestone.
I look forward to serving my clients for over 50 years and implementing a succession strategy so that a younger representative can continue serving my clients.
To be a Financial Representative, you must love people. Our clients, like all people, have human frailty. Helping our clients make wise decisions requires the ability to listen, to understand them, to help them understand themselves, to lead them to make the informed choices for what is best for them.
Frankly, this is hard work. It takes many years before the financial rewards are equal to the effort expended. You have to have patience and endurance. As a financial representative of Northwestern Mutual, I have enjoyed a rewarding and fulfilling career that has surpassed all expectations. I have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with my clients doing truly meaningful work. I have enjoyed financial rewards that have allowed me an above-average lifestyle.
Visit James Whistler’s website to learn more about his career as a wealth management advisor.
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