How to get a job at AFLAC.

I frankly don't know why anyone who intends to have only one income would go to AFLAC. It would be a help for those who had the time and another means of support, but that's it.

I'm not going to say AFLAC is a bad company, it's a scam, blah blah...I've read and heard it all before. Although during the interview I feel as though the RSC was not entirely honest about how one makes money at AFLAC...he gave me figures on what an average agent makes, but he did not explicitly say it was an independent contractor position. Bit of a red flag went up, but I figured with the name recognition AFLAC has and their unique product line, I figured I'd give it a go - this was in May.

I am really of mixed opinion about AFLAC's products; I've literally heard the good, the bad, and the ugly from policyholders to insurance professionals. In all fairness, the only competitive edge they have is that the policies pay cash to whoever you want (you, the doctor, hospital, etc.) and usually within the week that one files a claim...other than that AFLAC's policies aren't much better than any other supplemental insurance.

Also, I am not an advocate of their marketing techniques. From a business owner's point of view, how much respect do you think a business owner is going to have for an individual who randomly walks in/calls and tries to ultimately sell them insurance? Virtually nill. This tactic is completely amateur and is inappropriate for the product and today's business climate.

This is to say nothing of their overhiring of agents, lack of any territory thus making it a free-for-all for anybody who's licenced in that state. Also, agents like myself don't even know who's a current client and who is not! I have had more than a handful of current clients who end up even ditching AFLAC because they get so annoyed with the constant influx of agents coming in everyday, usually. All in all, good company but no recommendations here, sorry.

(cont. from last post)
The leads I was promised at go are complete rubbish as well - and that's if I even get them. I have lived in Indiana for close to four years now, and many of these leads had not been at that address for a few years!

Even for those businesses/people who are potential clients, AFLAC can be rather frustrating. It's not just current clients who have to endure being knocked up constantly by AFLAC agents, you know....prospects, too.

It seems as though they are completely oblivious as to what their unsavoury sales tactics do to an agent's CREDIBILITY as well as AFLAC's. Since it's commission only, it's only human to be a bit desperate when calling on a prospect, which does show in a presentation and in any interaction with anybody in the company.

If AFLAC is to gain any real credibility in the industry, they need to sod off with these cheap sales tactics and redirect their marketing efforts toward clients contacting AFLAC on their terms instead of depending on the other way round. That's just the way to sell financial products.

In the consumer's mind, cheap tacky sales tactics = ineffective product. Ask anyone who knows the first thing about marketing in the 21st century.

Cheers all!

Aflac works for about 10% of the people who get hired. I have been here 2 years & am marginally successful. In that time I have seen about 50 people come and go. Some, like me linger for a while but few have any real success.

mike1 in Michigan said: Aflac works for about 10% of the people who get hired. I have been here 2 years & am marginally successful. In that time I have seen about 50 people come and go. Some, like me linger for a while but few have any real success.

Exactly what I mean, mate - which is why I'm interviewing with Ameriprise....guaranteed paycheck, no cold calling....now I've heard some negative things about Ameriprise as well, but then again look up T Rowe Price, Charles Schwab, AG Edwards....any other financial advising jobs...all the complaints are virtually the same.

Well cold calling isn't for everyone and if you are going to take on a job such as AFLAC you must go through several changes that most people are not comfortable with making. First you have to start everyday with a positive attitude no matter what because there's is a need for the product. You must target your cold calling to suit your needs but keep in mind that everyone does not want the product but don't take it personally and internalize rejection. If you don't really believe in your product don't sell it. Also i think alot of people hear stories of extremely successful agent's and think they are going to just go out there and people are going to throw buisness at them. NOT TRUE. The truth is every agent that has become a huge success with AFLAC has worked their butt off. There is no short cutting the road to success i know. People then try to dismiss the company as a scam to get a measily 300-800 bucks from them. AFLAC has 70,00 Agents in the field most of 95% aren't meeting basic quotas.Because they become fixed on numbers instead performing quality service to everyone they encounter. Yet AFLAC has assets in excess of 56 billion dollars. So if it was to get your money (which isn't paid to them) you still would be 55 billion 79 million short on that theory. Which brings me to close if you are afraid of hard work, long hours, providing the very best effort you can give day in and day out and getting paid quiet well to do so then AFLAC IS NOT FOR YOU. Some are more comfotable with knowing exactly how much they're going to make every week. But remember those salary jobs have a ceilling and my job has no roof.Do what's best for you but remember if you are going to try it GIVE IT YOUR ALL. THEN give it some more and success is guaranteed to follow. Don't meet quotas bust through them, if its not working try harder. Get focused, Get better, Get PAID !

I started with Aflac in June of this year. It is not an easy job. You get what you put into it. I went thru alot of struggles and doubts but now I am killing it. I work in the Dallas market and there are no shortage of leads here. I love everything about this company and what they do. The commissions are great and they are constantly running incentive contests that are attainable. I have already won a trip to Shreveport, LA with my room, food and gambling money for two! I am already on target to win another trip.

I would like to respond to the person that feels Aflac should sit around and wait for people to call them rather than cold call. Alot of companies have no idea what Aflac does. They think the we are major medical and they have money out of pocket. Aflac is supplemental and costs the employer no out of pocket to offer it to their employees. So there is a need to call them.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Aflac but it is not for everyone. You must be self motivated and want to succeed.

Katherine in Plano in Plano, Texas said:
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Aflac but it is not for everyone. You must be self motivated and want to succeed.

My favourite right there...seems as though you're pretty sold on the rhetoric you've been fed...but if I was in your position I suppose I would be too, to an extent. But allow me to address a few of your statements:

"I work in the Dallas market and there are no shortage of leads here."

Hmm let's see...major city with huge economic growth versus small town Indiana...not much of a stretch...ahh, too easy.

"The commissions are great and they are constantly running incentive contests that are attainable."

Yeah, they're awesome...as long as the policyholders hang on to it past the probationary period...you've obviously little experience with a little thing called a CHARGEBACK...and why do you think they have to run contests anyway? That's the only way to keep people motivated.

"I would like to respond to the person that feels Aflac should sit around and wait for people to call them rather than cold call."

Uhh wha?! Are you oblivious to the fact that AFLAC absolutely stinks at marketing? Think about it...you said yourself that "alot of companies have no idea what Aflac does". Well, that's because they rely on a very outdated mode of marketing that does not reach a broader audience and does not send a clear message...all Joe Consumer sees is that silly duck....here's the average Aflac commercial: AFLAC AFLAC AFLAC AFLAC!!! (Voiceover): AFLAC. Ask about it at work. No wonder nobody knows just what it is they do. So my point is, just what would be so wrong about holding marketing events where people congregate...you know, set up a booth and watch em come in...get referrals and all that good stuff.

See what happens when you think outside the box and not allow yourself to be sold on blind rhetoric, Katherine?

Hello everyone, I'm not here to bash any person comments I justed wanted to share my experience with being an INDEPENDENT Agent with AFLAC. It's going on a year for me, I'm having some success with it because I understand what business market I want to tarket. Either it's from one particular business market or business from Direct sells. Also I don't see myself as a sales person I see myself as a educator because so many people are unaware of what Aflac products do. I look to educate first to increase the NEED. NO ONE wants to be sold to.

It's all what you put into it, yeah I don't agree with the hiring of so many agent because this business is not for everyone. But I can't worry about that all I can do is stay focus on the GOALS and the PLAN I wrote down for myself. I learned that from one Agent by the name of Donna Brown who lives in a small town called Greenville, Mississippi. Just to share her story with those agents who just started working for Aflac, Mrs. Brown has written over $250,000 dollars in direct sales in just over six months with Aflac. Her goal was to make atleast one Direct sale a day, she would not go home until she met her goal. I wanted to share her story because I know that when we get started with Aflac there is a strong focus on getting groups or getting that big score. My advice work on the small things like Directs build your client base there and then work your way up. Believe it or not but to me Directs is a quicker way to make money in this business. For those of you who are looking at Aflac for the first time and don't know what I mean when I say Directs, Directs are Individuals either a friend or a family member that you sold a Aflac product to.

The Best of Luck to all.

I have been in sales for over 8 years. I know the value of marketing. If you have noticed, the Aflac commercials are touching more on the fact that they pay cash to the individual. Having events, getting a booth and referrals are all wonderful ideas and I use them. There is still a need to make calls. I agree with rsimms that there is a need to educate them. You have obviously had a bad experience and were not a success and I am sorry about that. It is not for everyone. I hope you can move past this and calm down.

Katherine in Plano in Plano, Texas said: Having events, getting a booth and referrals are all wonderful ideas and I use them. There is still a need to make calls. I agree with rsimms that there is a need to educate them. You have obviously had a bad experience and were not a success and I am sorry about that. It is not for everyone. I hope you can move past this and calm down.

Oh, trust me I have moved past it as you put it. I'm working on an accounting degree so I can get a real job...and after I get my CPA I'll be basically set for life.

But in all fairness answer me one thing: does AFLAC pay for your marketing efforts? Probably not. They just load you up with warm fuzzy feel-good notions and send you on your way. Sure you can write it off on your taxes but that's not even guaranteed...along with all the petrol you've burned and the tyres you've probably worn bald.

You're also correct in assuming that AFLAC was not for me...I learned that in the first few weeks. They're just like any other job of this nature, only you're not selling diet pills. The comments I've read on this board and heard from other dogmatics all read the same no matter what measly 1099 job you have..."Some are more comfotable[sic] with knowing exactly how much they're going to make every week...those salary jobs have a ceilling[sic] and my job has no roof...do what's best for you but remember if you are going to try it GIVE IT YOUR ALL. THEN give it some more and success is guaranteed to follow. Don't meet quotas bust through them, if its not working try harder. Get focused, Get better, Get PAID!"

They range from this pretty much all-encompassing example to the warm and fuzzy 1/10,000 success story like the lady in MS or where ever it was. Seriously, these read like those "Success" and "Perserverence" posters they put up inside the manager's office at a used car lot...and they're about as helpful. Would a little objectivity kill you all?

I think the whole point here is you are the one that is being closed minded. I can accept that Aflac does not work for you. You cannot seem the accept that it DOES work for some people. You say you have moved passed it but it seems like you are still pretty fired up about the whole thing. I wish you the best of luck in your new career as I am loving mine. Lets just agree to disagree.

Christina said: I'm due for an interview tomorrow....all I did was reply to their job posting and sent my resume. I do not have any exceptional sales experience, and they still called. I've been doing some research, and the reviews are pretty much fifty-fifty...I guess you have to pay for some of your training. We shall soon see. Good Luck to you!

These jobs are generally 100% commission. You are a individual marketing their company with no benefits provided. There are 1000's of people coming & going.

I've spoken to 3 different locations - offices in 3 years... and others call regularly.

There will be no saftey net at all if business doesn't boom. You will not have a ramp-up or similar "get-started" gas fund or pay.

I'm looking for information on Aflac's Human Resources Internship. What it actually involves and whether or not its worth doing. If anyone knows the details behind it or has participated in it and is willing to share that would be helpful.

By the way, they do offer vision and dental insurance.

i'm looking foword to getting my licence

I was recently hired by Aflac and passed the Life and Disability exams. When will I need to take my drug test before I start the actual work?

Please tell me if working for Aflac is the right thing.

I owned my own business and love sales !
open to anybody comments thinking about going aboard in april !
studying for my state test now !
mikeny845@gmail.com for personal comments !

Thanks in advance
mike

J_THE_MAN in Manassas, Virginia said: Well cold calling isn't for everyone and if you are going to take on a job such as AFLAC you must go through several changes that most people are not comfortable with making. First you have to start everyday with a positive attitude no matter what because there's is a need for the product. You must target your cold calling to suit your needs but keep in mind that everyone does not want the product but don't take it personally and internalize rejection. If you don't really believe in your product don't sell it.[QUOTE]

J,
I have an interview with Aflac in Centreville, VA. Can you give me an idea of what the market is like in that area?

Laurie in Portland, Oregon said: Hi,
I Love working for AFLAC. You can have as much training or as little as you choose! There is at least 4 days of training in a classroom setting, but you REALLY do want to attend it..you learn alot!!! You will make as much as you want..and that is the key..as you want!! There are so many ways to make the sales..and the best thing is that you really have a great product..my favorite is the accident as well as the jumping juvenal policies..Life is good too!

But if you do not have the inner drive and don't feel like working to make what you want..then it really isn't for you!

I was a real estate agent for 10 years..in different markets...this is so much better, more fun, easier and quicker money!

I have the best job in the world!

You really should take a look at it! You will be extremely glad you did!!

I'M LOOKING FOR A JOB

Christina said: I'm due for an interview tomorrow....all I did was reply to their job posting and sent my resume. I do not have any exceptional sales experience, and they still called. I've been doing some research, and the reviews are pretty much fifty-fifty...I guess you have to pay for some of your training. We shall soon see. Good Luck to you!

IAM INTERESTED IN AFLAC WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO AND WHAT DO THEY PAY AND AT WHAT COST IS IT FOR YOU? IS IT A SALES JOB? IM CONFUSED

you dont get benifits do you working for them??

Laurie in Portland, Oregon said: Hi,
I Love working for AFLAC. You can have as much training or as little as you choose! There is at least 4 days of training in a classroom setting, but you REALLY do want to attend it..you learn alot!!! You will make as much as you want..and that is the key..as you want!! There are so many ways to make the sales..and the best thing is that you really have a great product..my favorite is the accident as well as the jumping juvenal policies..Life is good too!

But if you do not have the inner drive and don't feel like working to make what you want..then it really isn't for you!

I was a real estate agent for 10 years..in different markets...this is so much better, more fun, easier and quicker money!

I have the best job in the world!

You really should take a look at it! You will be extremely glad you did!!

I am a Realtor and am looking for something else. Can you tell me what the average person makes the first second and third year?

Thanks,

Tom

I just received a phone message from AFLAC -- they found my resume on Monster as well. I'm not looking for sales jobs.

From all that I've read online, though, I'm going to steer clear from them.

Host said: Do you work at AFLAC? How did you find the job? How did you get that first interview?

Any advice for someone trying to get in?

What are AFLAC'S hiring procedures? Do they require a pre-employment drug test or physical? Do they run a background check and verify references?

YOU KNOW WHAT, I HAVE TO DO THE TRAINING IN OVERAL IS $368 TOTAL AND THEY GIVE ME A $300 BONUS WHETHER I PASS IT OR NOT, YOU DONT LOOSE NO MONEY FOR THIS TEST. I GUESS YOU GOTTA BE GOOD IN MAKING SALES AND BE GOOD WELL COMUNNICATED WITH PEOPLE. I GUESS IT WILL BE EASIER FOR ME TO GET ALOT OF COMMISION FOR BEING BILINGUAL BECAUSE NOW DAYS MORE HISPANICS ARE BASICALLY LOOKING FOR INSURANCES TO COVER THEIR BILLS AND STUFF. IF YOU DONT LIKE IT THEN YOU COULD ALWAYS QUIT, WHY DO SOMETHING THAT YOU WONT LIKE OR THAT YOU THINK YOU WONT BE GOOD AT IT??

Host said: Do you work at AFLAC? How did you find the job? How did you get that first interview?

Any advice for someone trying to get in?

I had a friend who works for them who asked me to try. It is a great company selling a needed and valuable product.

Laurie in Portland, Oregon said: Hi,
I Love working for AFLAC. You can have as much training or as little as you choose! There is at least 4 days of training in a classroom setting, but you REALLY do want to attend it..you learn alot!!! You will make as much as you want..and that is the key..as you want!! There are so many ways to make the sales..and the best thing is that you really have a great product..my favorite is the accident as well as the jumping juvenal policies..Life is good too!

But if you do not have the inner drive and don't feel like working to make what you want..then it really isn't for you!

I was a real estate agent for 10 years..in different markets...this is so much better, more fun, easier and quicker money!

I have the best job in the world!

You really should take a look at it! You will be extremely glad you did!!

Agreed. I'm 20 and professional but uneducated formally. Very knowledgeable, exceptionally well self-educated, and very business-savvy. I make great money and it's changed my life especially in this economy. YOU DON'T HAVE TO BUY YOUR OWN LAPTOP. You SHOULD have a computer, but not, like, aflac-brand or something. It makes things easier. In md I have to pay aflac nothing, and It's very easy to sign up 3-4 employees a week. I got about 100 in four days, and I've been there a month. You have an EXCELLENT opportunity, but it IS hard to start up. It' WORTH IT, and in a good office you won't get thrown to the wolves, I've been there over a month and I've got a mentor who still goes through everything ofr me (and she doesn't get anything from my commiss., she didn't hire me. SHe just volunteered!) :0)

Emily in Freeport, Illinois said: Great questions Joe! Let's see, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I am 5'11, 140 lbs and have modeled professionally for several years. I have a brown belt in Karate so I could easily snap you in half for such rude comments. I in fact, do not blow at sales, as I had won trips and was awarded the top sales person month after month for several years. I have been recruited by numerous companies over the years but have chosen to return to teaching at the college level where I can shape young people's minds. As for alcohol, I do not require any to have a good time, but do enjoy it sometimes. As for my education, I am a few steps away from earning my PhD. I am also an accomplished writer and have the credentials to diagnose myself. Alas, sorry Joe, but no depression. I just chose to tell it like it is and it is most unfortunate that you cannot handle it. I can only imagine that you suffer from short man's disease and get your jolly's out of calling someone ugly and up-tight just because they want to tell their personal experience, thus the whole objective of this site...My name graces many plaques for awards won, so I am sure everyone will agree with me that I know how to sell.

Don't be a jackass. I'm 20 and have no college, and will make your annual salary in 3 months owkring for aflac, so it's not Aflac, it's you. You weren't a good match for them. SOme people are, some people arent. I've only been with them a little while too. And don't "I have a brown belt" anyone. I've got a 2nd degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, a 1st degree in Tae Kwon Do, and am close to a black belt in NInjitsu, Taejitsu, and was a championship fighter for five years. I know that modesty is important, and I've been successful. I have an IQ of 180 and am eligable for Promethius Society, and I've seen idiots make great $$$ at aflac.
"The optimist believes we live in the best possible world. The pessimist fears this is true."

Dave Pruitt in Baltimore, Maryland said: Don't be a jackass. I'm 20 and have no college, and will make your annual salary in 3 months owkring for aflac, so it's not Aflac, it's you. You weren't a good match for them. SOme people are, some people arent. I've only been with them a little while too. And don't "I have a brown belt" anyone. I've got a 2nd degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, a 1st degree in Tae Kwon Do, and am close to a black belt in NInjitsu, Taejitsu, and was a championship fighter for five years. I know that modesty is important, and I've been successful. I have an IQ of 180 and am eligable for Promethius Society, and I've seen idiots make great $$$ at aflac.
"The optimist believes we live in the best possible world. The pessimist fears this is true."

Having a 180 IQ would make you one of the smartest people on the planet, yet you failed to spell “eligible” and “Prometheus” correctly. 180 IQ....sure.

I guess you really signed up 100 employees in four days too....yea right.

Ira G Katz in Jacksonville, Florida said: Wow. Not only do you not know how to spell, you are rather obnoxious as well.
If you are what AFLAK represents I will not pursue this sales effort. Not everyone wants or can sell. I have never tried this profession but I have been told I could try it. I would NEVER put anyone down or criticize them for any failures. At least they did attempt it. Maybe you should try taking grammer lessons.

Aflac not AFLAK right?

Dave Pruitt in Baltimore, Maryland said: Don't be a jackass. I'm 20 and have no college, and will make your annual salary in 3 months owkring for aflac, so it's not Aflac, it's you. You weren't a good match for them. SOme people are, some people arent. I've only been with them a little while too. And don't "I have a brown belt" anyone. I've got a 2nd degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, a 1st degree in Tae Kwon Do, and am close to a black belt in NInjitsu, Taejitsu, and was a championship fighter for five years. I know that modesty is important, and I've been successful. I have an IQ of 180 and am eligable for Promethius Society, and I've seen idiots make great $$$ at aflac.
"The optimist believes we live in the best possible world. The pessimist fears this is true."

The spellcheck is a button on the tab,i.q. of 180?

Eddie N in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania said: Having a 180 IQ would make you one of the smartest people on the planet, yet you failed to spell “eligible” and “Prometheus” correctly. 180 IQ....sure.

I guess you really signed up 100 employees in four days too....yea right.

Ah spell heck.

Ira G Katz in Jacksonville, Florida said: Wow. Not only do you not know how to spell, you are rather obnoxious as well.
If you are what AFLAK represents I will not pursue this sales effort. Not everyone wants or can sell. I have never tried this profession but I have been told I could try it. I would NEVER put anyone down or criticize them for any failures. At least they did attempt it. Maybe you should try taking grammer lessons.

Grammar not grammer

Please use the ABC spellcheck button -it's more professional.

How much do you have to pay before you can start working for Aflac.

FoonTheElder said: The supplemental products that Aflac offers are comparable to its competition, Colonial, Assurant, etc. As Aflac benefits are employee paid, they are generally not as big priority in larger companies, as they are not part of the budget expense.

The best way to approach a Benefits Manager is to send them information, follow up and ask to be considered as part of their next quote on their benefit program, which is ususally every couple of years. You may not get any response, because it is likely that someone else has been there first, or they already have a relationship with a similar agent or company.

I am also a Life & Health agent. I am now working in the accounting department of a large, national insurance brokerage, who also sells Aflac (as well as its competitors). You need to realize that all of your competition has access to practically all of the same insurance providers that you do. That is why limiting yourself to Aflac significantly narrows your options. Aflac appears to be hiring people who are unfamiliar with the insurance business. You will soon find that you have a great deal of competition. If you are a contractor, you are the one taking all of the risk & I wouldn't recommend that you put all of your eggs in a narrow basket, like Aflac.

I don't know if you have a contract that limits you to Aflac, but Aflac offers your well financed competition the same options.

Finally an explanation for the discrepancy between new recruits' enthusiasm for the products and company, AFLAC, but the lack of enthusiasm for income levels annually because the entire industry can sell it, too. These companies are well-financed and receive the same benefit from selling it as the disproportionately-financed individual. The imbalance is furthered by the lack of product options to sell compared to insurance companies and even individual agents who sell insurance products + suppl. insur products. Thank you.

Stan in Laurel, Maryland said: I'm looking for information on Aflac's Human Resources Internship. What it actually involves and whether or not its worth doing. If anyone knows the details behind it or has participated in it and is willing to share that would be helpful.

The HR Dept = the District Sales Agents who are trained to headhunt.

Well, that is not really accurate. Do District Sales Coordinators (you got the title wrong) want to recruit new associates? Of course! But depending on the size of the state or region, some areas have people who are dedicated recruiters. They do nothing but answer resumes, conduct interviews, etc.

To say that this is a 'job' in the traditional sense would be incorrect. You do not work for anyone but yourself. You're an independent producer, selling Aflac products, for which they pay you a commission. It's a cross between owning your own business outright (and having to pay for all the overhead, like advertising, materials, etc) and working FOR someone.

There is a tremendous amount of negativity on the Internet about working for/with/alongside of/whatever Aflac. I think this stems from the fact that people think this is a 9-5 job with a regular paycheck and a cublicle. It is NOT.

You must have a producers license in order to sell any health or life insurance. Yes, that is something you must pay for yourself, but I can speak for my own District...if you work hard and hit your first 13 week sales goals, the DSC I am under will GLADLY reimburse you for the cost of your license.

Aflac collects NO money from your licensing fees; it's strictly between you and the state in which you reside.

Now, from the point on, you must prospect for new clients. It's old-fashioned selling; no telemarketing (at least no in my area), no email-blasts, or sending hundreds of faxes to people you've never met.

You dress professionally, get in your car, armed with a list of qualified business prospects (Aflac pays for an internet based program that will let you create your own prospect lists, and your manager prunes them for already-existing accounts.) You then introduce yourself to the business owner and ask for an appointment.

Is this done by yourself? Of course not! For your first 3-6 months, you have a veteran associate or DSC with you..cont..

continued...

This is a BIG job; it requires a lot of knowledge about a variety of different things. You will NOT get rich in the first 6 months, and any one who looks on this as a get-wealthy-fast scheme is going to be disappointed.

Simply put, there are no short-cuts to building real wealth. It takes hard work, sacrifice, experience, knowledge, and the abilty to motivate yourself. There are absolutely wonderful people who will NOT do well at this 'position.'

In order to be a successful associate (in MY opinion, and I've got a decade of success as an Aflac rep), the following qualities are MANDATORY:

1. Able to handle a LOT of rejection. There is cold calling in this job. You should also use networking; people you know. But they may say 'no.' You must be able to shrug the rejection off and KEEP ON GOING. If someone turning you down absolutely crushes you and you have to go home early, this is NOT GOOD. And you needn't feel guilty about it; most people don't like being rejected...it takes a very particular kind of personality to be unaffected by negative reactions.

2. Self-starter. This is huge. There is no one looking at a time clock to make sure you start your day at 8:00 am. We are conditioned our entire lives to abide a schedule created FOR US. This job requires you to create your OWN, and stick to it, no matter what. It's not as easy as it sounds!

3. Public speaking. Fear of speaking in front of groups of people is incredibly common. You don't just have to be unafraid; you have to be REALLY good at giving presentations. Engaging, funny, charming, able to think on your feet. I've trained dozens of newbies who were motivated, smart, honest people, but they had major panic attacks when they had to give a presentation...and ultimately they failed as Aflac reps (BUT...there is a unique solution to this challenge...more about that in a minute.)

continued...

continued/pt III

4. Likability: Aflac has great policies. Properly understood, and handled correctly, they are a dream (every complaint I've ever read from a claimant, WITHOUT EXCEPTION, is because they didn't understand what they bought, or had an agent who dropped the ball..luckily this is very rare.) But everything starts with YOU being a likable character to the prospective client. If you're a negative, pessimistic, extremely meek person, how in the world are you going to sell anything? You are the point of contact the customer has with the company. If they don't like you, they won't want to see you again. Simply put, you have to be someone the client enjoys talking to.

I'm honestly astonished by the amount of sour grapes I read from folks who didn't succeed at Aflac. Not everyone can do this job, and it doesn't mean you are a failure or the company is a scam. It just means this isn't the right profession for you. I was a high school teacher before I worked for Aflac. I had tenure, a union, guaranteed pay-scale, benefits, short days, and summers off. Most people would think it was a DREAM job. But I hated it! No matter how hard I worked or how many hours I put in, my paycheck was the same. And that bothered me. Really, really bothered me. I desparately need to be able to control how much money I make...and to be REWARDED monetarily when I 'do good.' I'm entrepreneurial in nature, but didn't have the big bucks required to start my own brick-and-mortar business.

At Aflac, I don't pay a dime for the advertising...it's free to the reps. All my brochures, outlines of coverage, site-sellers, are also free. I can choose to purchase quacking ducks and hand them out as sales incentives...but I also get to write it off on my taxes. PLUS the revenue generated by the sale of those plush ducks goes directly to Aflac Children's Cancer Center---a really, really good cause.

continued one more time...

finally..

I use a computer I purchased from Aflac (containing specialized propriety software) to sell the policies. But for every application I submit, I'm credited back a portion of the monthly charge. Honestly...I've owned over 4 computers and never had to pay one red cent on any of them.

I hate it when I read things like "Aflac is a scam." Nothing could be more FALSE. Last week my 22 year old daughter suffered an injury at work (she has the Aflac Personal Accident Plan)...she spent 4 hours in a hospital ER and had a follow up doctor's appointment the next day. She scanned the paperwork she was given and emailed it to me. I filed it that day. Within 3 days, a check was issued for $155; $120 for the initial visit and $35 for the dr's appointment. She was thrilled. How is that a scam?

One more example, for people still having doubts: Take a look at a program called Maximum Difference. It's an indemnity plan for the care and management of cancer. The only requirement for purchasing it, is that you haven't been treated for any internal cancer in the previous 5 years (so cancer survivors can purchase it; at the SAME rate as anyone else.) Cancer is a DEVASTATINGLY expensive illness; the out-of-pocket costs bankrupt most families. This plan pays cash directly to the policyholder, and children under the age of 26 are covered at NO COST.

I've eye-witnessed how important this plan is to families if cancer strikes. There is no cap on benefits...in fact, the pay-outs often end up being the only money that cancer victim's families have to LIVE ON. The cost? $16.12 per MONTH if you are 35 years old and part of a payroll group. It can also be purchased direct...the cost is only $3 higher per month.

I welcome any questions about my experiences with Aflac. Integrity and honesty are very important to me, and I'm incredibly proud to represent this company.

Okay...for anyone who had patience enough to read my little 'series'..thanks!

How successful can Aflac be if they are CONSTANTLY recruting agents? Must be high turnover. Why have I received telephone solicitation calls to work for Aflac on a Sunday? Something doesn't pass the "smell" test here. Like the old folks say, "All that Glitters Isn't Gold."

This is in my opinion of course, but, I truly believe Aflac "Pimps" their reps out and the managers only make money when the reps do. Prudential, Metlife, and NY Life all do the same thing. Almost seems as if you are a battery that is waiting to be used and when they are done with you, they throw you out. I was laid off from corporate America and I pray to God that my endeavors help me to NEVER go back to the lies, greed, and deception. If anyone does not like what I just said, then, go to another country. The last time I checked we live in America, where our ancestors fought for our free speech, amongst other values.

www.BrokerGopher.com

I've been a rep with Aflac since November 2006. I have to admit I do have a sales background 15 years plus. Working with them have been great for me, I work on a great team. I will tell any new agent coming in if this is something new to you working for a commission pay this will probably be the hardest thing you ever do. The average person don't have the mindset of setting and working their own hours. The reality is most people are use to a regular 9 to 5 with hourly pay or salary.
Again I've been here for over 4 years now I've probably seen over a 100 agent come and go. That's why they recruit a lot, the average person don't make it a year in this business. So if you are looking at the Aflac opportunity you will have to ask yourself are you committed to setting and working your on hours. Again this is commission pay which means your are your own boss. Also a new agent will work and train with a district manager until you are up to par. Good luck to those who are looking.

Hello, HappyAflacVet in Providence, Rhode Island,

I'm in the process of going on my 2nd interview w/Aflac. I'm really excited to get started. Your comment has been the best I've
have read on the internet. You've summed up everything and have stated the facts, point blank. I'm a very positive person as well. I do not let negatiive comments/people get to me. Because I do believe in Aflac's products. Because I know the importance of having supplemental insurance coverage personally. I've already spoke with several friends and family members. Telling them about my plans to become an ins agent. Plus giving them a brief overview of what Aflac offers. Just telling them about the Disab plan, they wanted to get a policy from me immediately. However, I told them I need to get my license first. They have told me as soon as I do. They will purchase a policy from me. Additionally, one friend said he will speak w/his supervisor to see if I can come to the job and do a presentation. He already knows about Aflac. He's been wanting to sign up and never got around to it. This is so AWESOME. I haven't even started yet. I have people lined up and waiting. You are so CORRECT. When you say people will pick up on your positive vibes. I already know this and believe this. You have GOT to really believe in what you are selling. If you don't, it usually will show. Also, having a TRUE committment to HELP and standy by what you are doing. I TRULY LOVE to help people and will NOT represent something I don't. Additionally, I LOVE that "we" as Aflac reps are the first "point of contact" for the customer. When you need to file a claim. The last thing anyone wants is a "hassle". You've paid your installments and now it's time to put them to use. People want to know that they can file a claim with ease and more importantly, peace of mind.

I want to "Thank You" for your post and the positive energy. It has definitely inspired me and so many others. Continued success!!!

Wow, thank you! Keep up that positive attitude; it will get you thru the hard times..

It's fantastic that you are lining up potential clients already. Disability cannot be sold Direct, only as part of a payroll group...but find out where that relative works, and see if you an arrange a 20 minute sit-down with 'the boss.'

There is NO reason for an employer not to do this...IF they have a really good agent...one who calls them back within 24 hours, jumps on any invoice issue and FIXES IT IMMEDIATELY.

I just settled a claim for $10,000.00...it was a person in their 40's who suddenly suffered a heart attack (no warning, no risk factors...this is a runner who doesn't smoke!). He spent over a week in Intensive Care, but luckily had the Specified Health Event plan (not available in all states) which pays for intentisive care stays PLUS heart attack.

I went to the hospital to visit the patient and talk to the family. I had the family's spokesperson (who has power of attorney) sign an authoriziation releasing the appropriate medical records to me, and then I went to town. Contact the medical records dept (where i have a good contact---someone I have made a point of getting to know because she gets me the paperwork I need.)

Aflac paid the claim in TWO DAYS. You read that right....48 hours after I submitted the hospital bill & physician statement, the check was cut.

The family was blown away. They all want to sign up, and one of them owns a business.

Service is the name of the game. These are tough times and it you deliver above and beyond what the client expects, really good things happen.

Don't listen to the nay-sayers. I've done it and so can you.

Write to me again!

This story is very moving and yes, what it is ALL about. I am so excited to get started. Thanks again and I will defintely keep you updated on my progress as I move forward. Of course, I know that this business will be what I make it. Being "positive" and not letting things get me down. Is first and foremost. This is just the key to doing "anything" in this life. There is always something that will happen not planned along life's journey. I'm just so GLAD that I realized this early on in my life. Having POSITIVE people to communicate/network with. Make it so much better, as WE ALL have the same goals. Looking forward to further communication with you.

Christina said: You are very welcome...and yes, they do give you SOME leads, but you are more or less responsible for your own. Also, there is a quota - which is annually $115,000 worth of premiums (just enough to keep you on the radar according to them), which translates into about $2,000+/week or 3 to 4 people/week. But unfortunately, that also equals only about $10,000/yr in my pocket. Not enough to live on, that's for sure. I think the secret is making contacts upon contacts wherever you go, especially if you know someone in a small business. You are paid commission per sale AND on every renewal policy. That will help somewhat. The guy that interviewed me (us, actually, it was me and another guy) was somewhat professional - I suppose I was just expecting to have to sell myself more. And no, the only desk I get is my own at home for now. Which works out fine for me...I have a small child.
Now the laptop, not sure if I'll have to bring one to the in-office training sessions...but it will definitely be necessary out in the field. And yes - there is a state licensing test - (which cost me $121.00, the most basic package was $90) and I am in the process of studying for it now. They give you a site that has a very dry yet informative online course that enables you to self-quiz to check your readiness for the test. I hope this helps!

what was the web site to get self studying ?

Mikearrick in Poughkeepsie, New York said: what was the web site to get self studying ?

I'm not sure, but the DSC you interview with at Aflac will know.

I feel I must say that the post in quotes above is inaccurate about income. If an associate wrote $115,000 in premium, the average commission for all products is about 37.5% (you could make more if you focused solely on products that pay higher commissions). Of that amount, you get an advance commission of 63%.

Based on those numbers, the agent writing $115,000.000 in their first year would make just over $27,000.00.

I don't know where the $10,000.00 is coming from.

HappyAflacVet in Providence, Rhode Island said: Disability cannot be sold Direct, only as part of a payroll group...but find out where that relative works, and see if you an arrange a 20 minute sit-down with 'the boss.'

Write to me again!

Disability can only be sold as part of a payroll group? What about self-employed sole proprietors? How does it work for them?

Thanks