Before becoming a Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Representative, Gerard Hempstead worked as a certified public accountant (CPA) in the insurance and financial services auditing department of a Big 5 accounting firm. He was quite successful as an accountant and was rapidly advancing through the ranks. There came a day, however, when he realized that he was a salesman trapped in a CPA's body.
Gerard knew he wanted to get out of accounting and into a business where he could help people. He had an uncle who was a Financial Representative and was very attracted to the lifestyle. Of course, his uncle also wanted Gerard to have all the advantages a Financial Representative job offers. After two years of diligent recruiting on the part of his uncle, Gerard decided to become a Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Representative. Today, he says it's the best decision he ever made.
"I remember the day I made up my mind to leave the accounting firm. I came home to my fiancee and said 'Honey, I hope you love me. I'm going to take a job selling insurance on straight commission.'" We were building our first house and saving for our honeymoon, so I was really asking her to take a big leap. And, she did.
"Since you're never going to work harder for anyone else than for yourself, you can create the exact lifestyle and business environment you want. For the right person, it's a surefire way to define, develop and achieve your personal, professional and financial dreams. And, the feeling you get from helping people is indescribable.
"When I was an auditor, I had to be an effective communicator and analyzer. I use the same skills as a Financial Representative. The difference is that back then I wasn't getting paid directly to solve problems, nor did I feel I was truly helping people. Now I make a great income and have a lot of flexibility. But the best part of the job for me is knowing I have a positive impact on people's lives."
Is it Time for a Change?
As an accountant, you know how to pay attention to details. You also probably have an appreciation for precision. But, are you starting to feel a bit stifled by the lack of freedom and flexibility in your job? Do you ever think about switching to a career where your work could make more of a personal impact on people? Or, are you all too often tied to your desk or phone for most of the workday? And, are you paid fairly for all the hours you put in? |
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