Career Changers

Changing careers doesn’t have to be a daunting proposition. With the support of a quality organization, it can be an easy transition.

Many attorneys, bankers, accountants, educators, and military personnel have two things in common … they enjoy helping people and have transitioned into successful careers as financial representatives with the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network.

A career as a financial representative can give you the independence you are looking for, while having the extensive resources of Northwestern Mutual available to you. Please take a moment to read Career Changers, the real-life stories of people just like you who made this exciting and rewarding change in their careers and lives.

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Patricia Davis
Financial Representative

After 14 years of global corporate financial analysis, accounting, and managerial experience in the financial services inudstry, Patty Davis came to the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network to help families identify, organize and reach their personal financial goals.

She wanted to refocus her career on individuals and small business owners. Patty enjoys working at Northwestern Mutual because it allows her to couple both her technical skills and her passion for helping people. Patty offers these thoughts on the career:

"When I first started, my Managing Partner told me that I would know whether or not I could do this within the first six months. Going from a traditional salary to all commission was scary, but I was able to personally plan for the first six months and was pleased to know that I could do this!"

"The greatest reward in this career is helping clients gain control of their finances and giving them the tools necessary to provide for themselves, their families and their businesses."

"This career has its challenges, too, such as the constant change in the industry and competition, from ongoing regulatory changes to constant introduction of new financial products or repackaging. We have to be able to sift through all of this and simplify the information for our clients as they hear the latest sound bites in the news."

"Early in the career, my biggest challenge was meeting the right type of client and managing a 100% commission opportunity. But along the way, I've learned there isn't anything I can't do and my earning potential is tied to what I think I'm worth—not a corporate 'grid.' Also, I've learned how rewarding it is to help people solve their financial puzzles."

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Christopher Lapiana
Field Director

Prior to becoming a Financial Representative, Chris Lapiana was a college student. He always wanted to be in a career where I could help others. Chris offers the following comments regarding the career:

"I find the greatest rewards are the relationships I build with the people I work with. I appreciate the respect I get from my clients and peers."

"The greatest challenge is staying focused. We are extremely busy and can get off track from time to time. Early in my career, the biggest challenge was having to start a business from nothing and get it off of the ground. But along the way, I've learned that I have the ability to relate well with others. I also can be very focused and motivated when I need to be."

"I remember the first time a client thanked me after a review on helping them save money. They said if it wasn't for me, they would not be where they are today financially."

"This is a great career for the right person. The most important characteristic of a Financial Representative is courage. I can't think of any other career that gives me more freedom and control of my own destiny."

As a field director, Chris looks forward to working with younger Financial Representatives, helping them build their business as he continues his growth in management.