Aflac is a SCAM you pay them to work!

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Curious124 in New York, New York

48 months ago

I worked at the New York Office and despite the fact that the products are good... they pay policyholders on time, Management is not good at all. The majority of them don't know what they are doing and try to use psychology on new people so they can do the work for them with very little benefit in return.

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MoneyCoach in Marietta, Ohio

48 months ago

I started with Aflac three years ago and I have been promoted twice. The success you have with this company (or lack of success) is determined almost entirely by your willingness to learn the company's methods and put them to work. Work being the key.
If you will work as though this is a full time position, you can create an amazing lifestyle for yourself and family.

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susan50309 in Des Moines, Iowa

48 months ago

MoneyCoach in Marietta, Ohio said: I started with Aflac three years ago and I have been promoted twice. The success you have with this company (or lack of success) is determined almost entirely by your willingness to learn the company's methods and put them to work. Work being the key.
If you will work as though this is a full time position, you can create an amazing lifestyle for yourself and family.

I believe that success can be had in aflac...I work with a new rep (virtual assistant) who has put heart and soul into this but 1. this person went in and honestly told them there was absolutely no sales experience - district and regional has been non supportive and training is minimal at best. ie dM did not even show for first group sign up etc 2. we are finding that business' do not want anything to do with aflac when called

what steps would you suggest to get this off the ground? as a team we are willing to work hard.

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JohnnyG in Centreville, Virginia

47 months ago

How saturated is the Aflac market in Northern Virgnina?

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farmer in Poughkeepsie, New York

47 months ago

I am pretty good at math and in order for your son to possibly earn $200k in commissions on a single account their would have to be thousands of employees working at that business and 100% of them would have enrolled in the benefits. AFLAC plans can range between $2 to $15 a week in costs so even if commissions were 25% of premium, 25% of $2 is umm $.50 commission per policy times 52 weeks divided into $200,000. = etc. I do think your son might have exaggerated his earning potential on this one.

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Jason Curtis in Elkhart, Indiana

47 months ago

I am also pretty good at math -
the average first year commission for a new agent under the advanced commission structure is 40%. Therefore you would need to write about 500,000 in annual premium in the account.

You would need to open an account with about 2100 employees.
If 60% of them participated which is fairly average and spent an average of $400 a year in Aflac policies(also pretty average)you would have enrolled 1260 employees @400 each = 504,000 in AP multiplied by .40 is 201600 in the first year,
and about $126,000 in advanced commissions immediately.

I am working through the process in two large accounts right now - one is 1800 employees and the other is 2650 employees.

I will add this - earning $200,000 in your first year is rare at best but most certainy not impossible. And earning $200,000 or more in your tenth consecutive full time year could be expected.

I don't think a person without a college degree or any sales experience would have the opportunity to sit across a desk from the employer and be offered a "job" that would take you from approx 30,000 the first year to a six figure income in the next few years.so get out there and make it happen for YOURSELF.

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

I have been working Aflac for 2 years. There are a few people who don't keep their policies but it is only 1/8% of 100%. You as a business owner must investigate who you are selling to, if they can afford this. I look out for my clients. I'm in it because I care for the people. This is my only job. I quit a job after 12 long years to have this freedom. And I make 2 1/2 times my old salary. It is like any job, either you have it or you don't.

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ACM_drama in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

47 months ago

I have through several blogs about working Aflac. It was very beneficial, esp since I will be starting in a few months as an Exec Accounts. I am very nervous because I am about to graduate from college and begin my career immediately (it's great but a lil scary). Correct me if I am wriong but my understanding from what people have said that either worked, work, or know someone who has or had worked, that I should have a part-time job as well? Also, on average how much does a rep make in a year? I have financial obligations just as the next person and am trying to start my life the proper way by having foresight and planning most effectively. What would be some great advice? Thanx!!!!!!!

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hound in Phoenix, Arizona

47 months ago

Dear ACM_Drama,
Run, don't walk, RUN in the other direction. Aflac can be a good company for the right personality type, but if you are right out of college, with bills to pay, you should use your degree and work for a corporation that will give you good training, pay and benefits.
Save your money with the intention of revisiting Aflac in a couple years, and if you still want to try it you'll have some life experience behind you.
How much can you make the first year? Under $5,000 for me and other reps I know. The manager will tell you $20,000 or more, but good luck seeing that much.
Sales do not come easy, even though the products are good.
Good luck

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

ACM_drama in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania said: I have through several blogs about working Aflac. It was very beneficial, esp since I will be starting in a few months as an Exec Accounts. I am very nervous because I am about to graduate from college and begin my career immediately (it's great but a lil scary). Correct me if I am wriong but my understanding from what people have said that either worked, work, or know someone who has or had worked, that I should have a part-time job as well? Also, on average how much does a rep make in a year? I have financial obligations just as the next person and am trying to start my life the proper way by having foresight and planning most effectively. What would be some great advice? Thanx!!!!!!!

My first year I made $5,000 in the first 2-3 months. I was doing a lot of training. You don't want to go and not know what you are talking about. The customers can sense that. I would say to have a part time job for the first 4-6 months. After that you should be properly trained and feel confident enough to make a good $35,000 to $50,000 your first year. I know guys that are 20-25 and are making 3 figures. It is how hard you work, if you can work alone without an office structure (ie not washing laundry, going out to lunch, talking to friends on the phone) You have to be discliplined. You know yourself better than anyone else. You should ask yourself if you would be good at sales of any kind. But, the money is out there, I know I'm a single mom and only worked 2 days the first 6 months then quit my job of 12 years. I tripled my old yearly salary. I'm buying my daughter a new car for college from one sale. It's up to you. Good Luck...

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ACM_drama in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

47 months ago

Thank you hound in Phoenix and Rep in Buford. I really do like what I already know about the company and am very excited that I was offered this position. Again, I just want to make the best decision for myself. Both of your responses were very helpful!!!

Rep in Buford,
Do you have any advice about selling or closing deals (any key points)? Also, was training paid training, and since it is a BOB career are there no specified days to report to the office? I know that at the office I was hired for I was told that field work or cold calling is up to me, etc... my question is is most of the work home based (i.e. calling or emailing form your own home)? I am very much in contact with the person who hired me and am asking questions for them to answer as well, but I want to make sure that I get ppl's opinion who won't sugar coat anything.

Hound in Phoenix,
Would you consider yourself a good sales person, or is that a field that you prefer to no longer venture in? I do have my options open because you can never be too careful, but as I told Rep in Buford, I really do believe that this is a great opportunity; and as you have stated, you have to have the right personality.

THANK YOU BOTH FOR YOUR RESPONSES!!!

Sincerely,

ACM_drama

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

Hi ACM_drama,

Be persistant, don't let the NO'S get you down. I have a recruit that started 2 weeks ago and she has set 15 appointments. In the beginning you have to work, work work but in the long run it pays off sweetly. I have been working on a 1000 man group for 6 months, we just closed and I made $50,000 up front and $4,688 per month for the next 11 months. But I keep a lot of small (under 25) accounts going to keep the money flowing. I think that is the other peoples hang up. They are counting on that one BIG deal. You have to know how to survive. Be honest, if you aren't you won't have the people wanting to renew with you every year. The after your 13th month with the company you get stock and 7% more on all of your renewals. We are going to Venice, Italy, Paris, France, our National convention is in San Diego, Ca, and our state meeting is in Watercolor, FL (near Destin) these are all paid vacations. You get money for different contests. There are so many out now it is hard to keep them all straight. The headquarters is very helpful with any questions or problems. I hope I have helped in some way.

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ACM_drama in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

47 months ago

You definitely have helped me tremendously!!!!!!!! Thank you so much!

Truly,

ACM_drama

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hound in Phoenix, Arizona

47 months ago

Dear ACM_drama,

Yes, I am a good salesperson, however, I do not have a good team to work with. As you can see in the forum posts, some people have great support, great training, etc and others do not. Here is a hint if you still want to go with Aflac: visit 30 companies in 30 days and you'll most likely find an account. For me, though, what happened was that my DSC would not do appointments with me, so I had to learn by doing on my own. Try to get a DSC to commit to going out with you for at least one 8 hour day per week in the beginning (should really be 2 or 3 but most DSCs don't have that kind of time). Partner with someone to keep the attitude positive. If you know exactly where you will be driving to, make a route with Google, Yahoo Maps or Microsoft map software-that will really save alot of time and you'll make more calls. Remember that once you get an appointment, it takes time from prospecting. Employee presentations and enrollments also take time away from prospecting - it's a fine balancing act some weeks to get all your calls in. And finally, if you really don't like telemarketing/cold calling, think long and hard about being an Aflac rep. The people I know who do very well are also excellent at telemarketing. Oh, and join a Chamber ASAP - many have a lower few if you work from home. Go to everything you can find time for. People need to get to know you to trust you.

Cheers.

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Jeff Gibson in Charlotte, North Carolina

47 months ago

Woody, that is sad that is how your State is run. I have been with AFLAC 3 years, a very successful DSC over 2 yrs, and I have NEVER taken an account from an assoc. I have however helped associates open over 100 accounts in the past 2 yrs. I hope there are more out there like me than like your DSC. We do have guidelines, they are not being followed in your case. Sorry to know that goes on. Good luck

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teddyk

47 months ago

you are one of a kind. there are not any like you in this area.

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teddyk

47 months ago

it takes 6 months to make any money and they give you no leads whatsoever. Usually the DSC gets them.. OR the Regional passes them on to whomever they want.. proceed with caution...

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teddyk

47 months ago

corp America bs in Riverview, Florida said: AFLAC IS A CROOKED COMPANY! I WORKED THERE, I KNOW!

no help,that is for sure... you sure have to dig a bit

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teddyk

47 months ago

hound in Phoenix, Arizona said: Dear ACM_Drama,
Run, don't walk, RUN in the other direction. Aflac can be a good company for the right personality type, but if you are right out of college, with bills to pay, you should use your degree and work for a corporation that will give you good training, pay and benefits.
Save your money with the intention of revisiting Aflac in a couple years, and if you still want to try it you'll have some life experience behind you.
How much can you make the first year? Under $5,000 for me and other reps I know. The manager will tell you $20,000 or more, but good luck seeing that much.
Sales do not come easy, even though the products are good.
Good luck

so right.. you can go thru lots of money by the time you make a few dollars, it is great for secondary income, or if you are a broker and just broker aflac

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

teddyk,

Do you have to be so negative. People make it in the world when there is positive influence around. Not everyone is good with everything. Aflac is a very successful company. I know the state sales coordinator personally. He has paid for 6 children, bought them all their own cars, put them through college and has several beautiful homes. So, it can and has been done. Maybe you or whoever you are comparing ACM_Drama to might have just been lazy or didn't learn easily. Not everyone is going to be good at every job but, we should show support......If you are always negative you will always be at the bottom. I like being at the top myself.

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ACM_drama in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

47 months ago

thank you everyone for the advise!!! You really don't know how much this is helping me. I have plenty of questions to ask my recruiter, as well as I have been brainstorming and plotting to help me as I start off this career.

I have came across a few blogs that mention going through money. What exactly does that mean? Are specifically talking about personal financial obligations, or having to put out money for the Aflac position?

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COURUD7346 in Stafford, Virginia

47 months ago

So your saying it worked out for you? I'm seriously considering going the aflac way. I feel as though I really don't have a direction in life but I know that I do not want to work for someone else for the rest of my life, I want to be successful and that is what is driving me to attain my own business. I currently own a little travel gig through YTB and I'm doing ok, but nothing on top level standards

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WildWeaselNJ in Toms River, New Jersey

47 months ago

I will be starting with AFLAC shortly. they've never asked me for a penny. In fact, to date, I have paid only fees for those things that would be required of ANY insurance agent within the state. Licensing requires education, testing, fingerprinting. I was assured that the fees for such would be returned to me by AFLAC after a probationary period of employment.

Interestingly enough, when I received my CDL license it was under the same criteria. I was trained by a transportation company, used their facilities to practice driving a passenger bus, and they gave me te bus to take the test. After working for them for 6 months I received a "sign on bonus" which was really just a return of the fees for the licensing.

People who complain about basic necessities of a profession are those who whish to play Doctor with out the bother of getting the degree, practice law without passing the bar, drive with no license...

Yes, AFAC appears to be using cookie-cutter recruiting, as they constantly scan the big resume sites (Career Builder and Monster) for prospects. The cream rises to the top. Cold calling, commission only sales is not for the weak of heart. In fact, just the thought of having to account for your own income is very frightening to people of the "Micky Ds" work ethic... "I will make your hamburgers as lomg as you pay me what I need to get by...thereby creating a place for me to work whre I feel as if I could not leave."

So, I will venture into the dark abyss of the unknown called AFLAC, and I will keep everyone posted of my progress. Every journey starts with one small step... and only those who refuse to try something new will fail at the attempt.

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

Amen.... you are preaching the truth. I am really enjoying getting paid 2-3 times per week. I have already made my whole salary from the old jobs in just 3 months with Aflac and won cash prizes and trips. Enjoy the better life

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COURUD7346 in Stafford, Virginia

47 months ago

Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia said: Amen.... you are preaching the truth. I am really enjoying getting paid 2-3 times per week. I have already made my whole salary from the old jobs in just 3 months with Aflac and won cash prizes and trips. Enjoy the better life

Hey Rep In Buford. So can you give me some advice on what to do when I start out. I need a positive direction to take in life. I know I I can be succesful, I just need the opportunity or an open door...ANYTHING! :)

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

Everyone ask me where do I find my leads and I start pointing to trucks or signs that I pass driving. I keep a note pad in my car and write down the names of any companies that I see. I go to reference USA and put in the name to get the address and the HR persons name. It isn't always there but it is most of the time. I call first and tell the HR person that I am going to be in their area on (whatever day you choose)and ask if would be alright to stop by and introduce myself and drop off some information about my company, then say I work for Aflac "Have you heard of us?" Then you'll get a response like we have Aflac already or sure that would be fine. Then ask if morning or afternoon is better and set up a time. Once you are in there you can tell them about what Aflac can do for their employees. That usually works for me. If you have any more questions just ask and I will get you the answers. Good Luck

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COURUD7346 in Stafford, Virginia

47 months ago

THANK SO MUCH!!! I feel more confidant in what to do now. I was going to go with State Farm but had been hearing they cost as much as All state to start up. Aflac isn't really present in the area I live in so maybe I will make a change. Thanks so very much!!!

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bjbar5smom in Phoenix, Arizona

47 months ago

Look! Don't slam AFLAC. They ARE an insurance agency. The $$ is for you to become a licensed agent, NOT to work for them. Department of Insurance makes those rules, not the companies. There is alot of studying involved and these tests are hard but once you are licensed, you are in a whole different category then most people. You won't find a reputable insurance company that will hire you without a license. If you want that, there are companies out there that are discount insurance (don't do it) that will let you work for them and lie to poor unsuspecting people.

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Jen Smith in Charleston, West Virginia

47 months ago

JC milw in Milwaukee, Wisconsin said: I am a recent college graduate in the Milwaukee area, I recently had a bad experience w/ office supply sales, i understand how sales works and have always been willing to work hard. I guess I am looking for some advice because AFLAC sounded good, but so did my previous experience. Also does anyone know if the market is saturated in Southeastern WI? I d really appreciate any input. Is it an advantage to be young with some but not much sales experience? Thanks to whomever responds

The other poster is right, RUN, don't walk from this "opportunity". I've been with Aflac for three years and I've seen behavior that would stand your hair on end.

Unless you have a big center of influence in which to get a good start, you're going to end up cold-calling for everything you get. And yes, the market is saturated beyond measure. Business owners are fed up with Aflac agents calling them and walking into their places of business. What is Aflac's response to this? Why, it's simple - contract more agents. Every month sales school churns out dozens more agents. It's one big free-for-all. Get ready to waste thousands on gasoline.

And don't fall for this self-employed non-sense either. You're an unpaid employee and often treated as such.

Do you guys know why they want the names of the businesses you approach? So they can cancel your contract if you become appointed with another insurance agency and try to sell them something different. Become a CIT and you'll find out the same things I did.

Ask yourself this question, why would you only sell Aflac? Is it the best fit for a business that won't allow a payroll account? Is it the best fit for individuals you meet on the street? No. The direct rates are much higher. So why not also become appointed with other carriers? If you don't do so, don't kid yourself, you're not doing what's in the best interest of your clients.

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aflacliars in Atlanta, Georgia

47 months ago

Working for AFLAC is a big CON. It is a waste of time and money. I don't think you even have to be breathing to get a job in Georgia.

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Nickflac in Fredericksburg, Virginia

47 months ago

I have never seen so many damn "boo-hoo-ers" in all my life. Really, do adults post on this forum?
How many small business owners do you think go into the black within their first year? Do they moan and complain about how their business is a scam? How about the real estate they have to pay to lease? The inventory they have to purchase and stock? The employees they have to hire? Advertising? And that's just to open their doors. That typically requires a substantial loan from a bank just to get started.
What do we have to invest to start our Aflac business? Real estate? Well, I have an office in my home. Advertising? I've got the best ad campaign known to man - and I don't pay a dime for it. In addition, all of my marketing materials are provided to me by Aflac for free. Employees? Nope. Inventory? Guess what? My inventory cost me $0. I'm selling a promise on a piece. A promise that Aflac is pretty damn good at keeping.
Your investment with Aflac is $300 dollars for an insurance license. Give me a break.
On average, a new business takes 1-3 years to become profitable. With Aflac the average is 6 months. I'm not a math major, but those numbers seem to favor an Aflac career. I've been doing this for 7 years and I make well into six-figures before I wake up in the morning. Sounds like a pretty good business if you ask me.
Grow up, take responsibility, and go find something you like to do. Chances are you will quit again and blame it on everyone else. Boo frickin hoo.

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teddyk

47 months ago

you tell em

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EasyGamble in Valrico, Florida

47 months ago

Mario in Tracy, California said: EVER THOUGHT EVER WONDERED

* Where will I be five years from now if I remain in my current position?
* Will I attain the financial security I need (or that my family needs)?
* Do I really enjoy my current occupation and lifestyle?
* Have I ever considered being my own boss?
* Would I like the opportunity to earn a substantial income?

AFLAC HAS THE ANSWERS!

* National TV and print advertising
* An outstanding compensation package where YOU control how much you earn
* Potential annual increases (renewals) of $5,000 $10,000+
* Exciting incentives and a stock bonus plan
* Over 370,000 established payroll accounts nationwide

this is what they put on the job search ad, notice anything?
all it does is ask you if your happy with ur life,
and it doesn't say a thing about the job description itself.. caz they don't want you to know what the job is about!
all their doing is try to fish unhappy losers, brainwash them to be happy and proud by using words like "be your own business" or "your a professional entrepreneur", or "make residual income" "be rich and retire early" "financial security".. etc full of craps.

They cost you the 300$ just so they can get some money out of you.. not to license you, wake up, 90% of ppl who works for these pyramid skeep jobs quits, and company still keeps all the money they pay to join, so who makes the good money? most likely not you..

and people who posts all these great things about the company is 99.9% written by workers. they just want to give out good reputation, not only trying to be proud but also so that people possibly joins you.. and you make the money.

Next time you decide to post an opinion you may want to consult a dictionary...or at least a third grader. If your attitude is on par with your spelling no wonder sales is not for you.

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EasyGamble in Valrico, Florida

47 months ago

mike in Kansas City, Missouri said: if your white

most of the people in my region are either black or hispanic

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

you must be uneducated....

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Rep in Buford in Buford, Georgia

47 months ago

Amen.......These people who complain don't have a clue. I'm living the good life too

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ACM_drama in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

47 months ago

Aflac is definitely not a scam, and I am saying this as a non-employee perspective (actually I haven't started yet). I understand everyone's comments and complaints. My experience so far, as I am in the process of getting ready to start my career with Aflac, I did have to pay $300 (actually a little less) for my insurance license. However, Aflac reimburses you with more than what you spend on it once you pass. Also, that has changed briefly and now I do not have to pay anything to receive my license, Aflac has paid all fees.

It is a great opportunity to work with AFLAC. But it has everything to do with personality and preference. Everyone isn't fit for the task. Therefore, if you have any problems with the responsibilities, then it is not for you. So move on and grab an opportunity that fits you.

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teddyk

47 months ago

ya, ya

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hound in Phoenix, Arizona

47 months ago

Dear Mr. Knowitall,

What are you doing on this forum if you have such a great business? Aren't you busy taking care of all those customers giving you the 6 figure income AFTER 7 YEARS? I see you left out details about your first year...

Seems that it would be helpful to offer "how you did it" stories instead of cutting down people who are trying hard to make it in Aflac, but not having the financial success promised during recruitment. I was lead to believe I'd make $60,000-$80,000 my first year....not going to be even close to that. Help and support? Another misrepresentation.

If I'd opened my own business, I'd understand the risks, and time it would take to make a profit. However, the Aflac "opportunity" is not promoted like that. No one mentioned this was "my own business" until AFTER I got my insurance license.

Aflac was "my own business" ... until I wanted to go after a large company because I just happen to know HR Executives, and then it was "there are policies and procedures and the State Director has to be involved, and, and..."

So which is it? A career or my own business? If it's my own business, I don't see why I would have to get permission to sell to a large company.

In case you and others don't realize it, there are MANY other companies with better compensation plans, risidual income, and many good benefits. And belive it or not, they offer many other ways to prospect than just cold calling.

If you don't want to share your success plan, maybe you could share your wealth with some of the new Aflac reps in your region who are probably stuggling to pay bills.

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teddyk

47 months ago

you are so right... hello, you are in corporate America with a family-owned organization...don't step on your DSC's toes... keep him producing... you are on your own, with no stock ownership

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Nickflac in Fredericksburg, Virginia

47 months ago

Mr. Knowitall? Oh stop, you're going to give me a big head. Let me address each concern one by one.

First, I am in this forum because I often google Aflac to see what is out there. From news articles to blogs. The good, the bad, the ugly. I know it doesn't record the time of day on this blog, but for the record it was around 8 or 9-ish when I posted last night. So, I wasn't out cultivating my business. I was at home relaxing, in between honey-do projects. And to clarify, the six-figures are my renewals, that doesn't include what I actually generate each year, which is around six-figures as well. I actually reached the six-figure total income mark in my 3rd year. Renewals reached that mark in year 5. And it continues to grow and grow each year.
I will offer some how-to's but first, let me apologize for what I call my "tough love." I'm not trying to cut anyone down, but it's pretty much the kind of response that is deserved when someone makes the charge that Aflac is a scam, or a con.

Next, I don't know how the opportunity was presented to you, but one of the strengths of Aflac is the flexibility to run your own business, with the support and training of a Fortune 500 company. There are guidelines for large accounts, which is a new thing, basically to protect the integrity of the system. I'm sure there are agents you have met in Arizona that have no business going into a large company, but will try to anyway. Under these guidelines an account would still be coded to you, but you would have the assistance of WWHQ, and your state team. Also, large companies often use fully automated single-point billing benefit systems, and it's impossible for a new associate to be able to communicate Aflac's capabilities in that department to a large employer.

First year income... in my experience with the new commission package called APO, the average 1st year income for a full time associate is about $50-60K. When I say full time, I mean an HONEST 40 hrs a week.

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Nickflac in Fredericksburg, Virginia

47 months ago

don't post your reply yet... i just ran out of space. more coming. let me grab a drink first.

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Jeff Sock in Cranston, Rhode Island

47 months ago

I am a DSC - started in 2004 as an associate. I had a side business because - when I was told how the compensation worked - and after I made an informed decision, after telling my hierachy I would not come on board until I saw how the prospecting went, I knew I wouldnt make what some people claimed I made sure I had an alternate income source.

You can make over 60,000 your first year, my brother did it and is now my RSC, I am now an RSC and easily on track for 6 figures, my first quarter income is $30,000 -

This is a good forum people should not come on board if they need a steady paycheck next week. People in my state organization are never mislead. My brother made over 70K his first year. He didnt spend time on boards like this he worked 8-10 hrs a day and dint whine - and his DSC didnt give him half the suport he gave me and his other associates.

DO NOT COME ON BOARD IF YOU DONT HAVE THE STOMACH FOR 100% COMISSION - stay in the "safety" of a company that can fire you whenever they want.

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Nickflac in Fredericksburg, Virginia

47 months ago

Ok... where was I? Oh yeah, income. The bulk of your 1st year income begins at about the 3 - 6 month mark.

Two more things before I get to my 1st year story.
1) I've looked at other companies. American Heritage pays salary plus commission. Plus a company car. Woo-hoo. I had a friend who was a State Manager and had been with the company almost 10 years. His annual income was $101,000. No thanks. Salary plus commission means the superstar is getting paid less than he's worth to subsidize the paychecks of the average and below-average people. I like to call it "sales-persons' welfare." I'm not into socialized income.
2) I love to share my wealth with 1st year associates. But instead of giving them the fish, I teach them HOW to fish. If they choose to fish, they will eat.

My 1st year....
The year is 2001. Anyone remember what event took place that year? I was cold-calling the day the towers went down. Saw it on the tv in one of the companies I was calling on. I didn't work the rest of that week.
I began at age 23, had no clue what Aflac was. I thought it was heart medication or something. I had seen the duck and that was just about it.
After I was hired, I was handed a pack of brochures, told that I can sell to any business with 3 employees, and given a good pat on the back, accompanied by a "go get em, call me when you get an appointment."
All I knew to do was walk in 30 businesses a day and ask for an appointment. So that's what I did. I had mediocre success. I made about $25K my first year. I forgot to mention I had a roommate that loved to golf. So 2 days a week we were on the golf course.
I almost quit several times, about 365 times to be exact. I never blamed Aflac, I just thought I wasn't cut out for this.
The one day I went to the district office, moaning and complaining, and my DSC invited me in her office. She played me a message on her answering machine.
Out of room again... stay tuned

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hound in Illinois

47 months ago

Jeff Sock in Cranston, Rhode Island said: I am a DSC - started in 2004 as an associate. I had a side business because - when I was told how the compensation worked - and after I made an informed decision, after telling my hierachy I would not come on board until I saw how the prospecting went, I knew I wouldnt make what some people claimed I made sure I had an alternate income source.

You can make over 60,000 your first year, my brother did it and is now my RSC, I am now an RSC and easily on track for 6 figures, my first quarter income is $30,000 -

This is a good forum people should not come on board if they need a steady paycheck next week. People in my state organization are never mislead. My brother made over 70K his first year. He didnt spend time on boards like this he worked 8-10 hrs a day and dint whine - and his DSC didnt give him half the suport he gave me and his other associates.

DO NOT COME ON BOARD IF YOU DONT HAVE THE STOMACH FOR 100% COMISSION - stay in the "safety" of a company that can fire you whenever they want.

Okay, you have my attention. I have no sales experience and no field training. I hired a mentor and cold called every day for three months and got four appointments that did not go farther. I go back and perservere. Have one account and would like more.

What is the secret to make $60,000 the first year? I read on the website that new recruits should be told the average income is $20,000/year. I didn't start with Aflac because of the money, but would like to receive something for all my hard work. Oh, and yes, I belong to a Chamber, a networking club and attend mixers plus do all the cold calling. Read tons of books, took advantage of free coaching sessions...you name it I've tried it.

Suggestions?

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Nickflac in Fredericksburg, Virginia

47 months ago

My DSC had a best friend who was a school teacher. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer a few months back. After surgeries and radiation and chemo, traveling back and forth to special treatment centers, and not working, she was close to filing bankruptcy and losing her home.
The voice message was almost unintelligible because of this lady sobbing... all I could make out was "thank you, thank you, thank you...." She had received a check from Aflac for roughly $46,000 or so. That's the day I quit moaning and groaning and discovered my purpose with Aflac.
Once I took the focus off of myself, and focused on how many people I can help, the income starting coming in. I finally figured out that your income with Aflac is basically your report card on how well you help other people. When I took that approach, I could do this job with passion. I've been able to help a lot of people. Often I wonder, of the people I have helped in times of a financial crisis, what if I had quit? What if I did not call on this person's place of business? Would someone have gotten to them? Or would they have lost their home, cars, savings, retirement, etc?

That's why I'm so passionate about Aflac. That's why I can't stand to see people bash the company. If an associate comes on board, and they open just one account, well there might be a person at that account that otherwise may not have gotten to hear how Aflac can help them.

My advice - if you really want it. It's great advice. It's worth you taking it.
Ready?
Go to the bookstore and purchase a book called Failing Forward by John Maxwell. It will revolutionize your career if you'll read it.
Also, Aflac is not great as a short-term job. But as a long-term career, there is nothing like it.

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teddyk

47 months ago

rah rah

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Nickflac in Fredericksburg, Virginia

47 months ago

On the other side of that is something that hit home for me. I have a cousin that I was very close to growing up... now married with kids, lives 2 hrs away. He has 3 children with his wife. He makes about $14/hr at his job, she makes about $10/hr. Last year, about May, his 4 year old daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. It is the very treatable kind, thank goodness. But of course she still needs treatment at Johns Hopkins; radiation, chemo, the whole nine yards. He's got decent health coverage. But he and his wife are off work 3 days a week at the hospital with their daughter. When they're not working, they're not getting paid. In addition, the hospital is 2 hrs away, they've got a 99 Ford Expedition, and gas is $3.20/gal. Not mention food, his hotel, etc.
They don't have Aflac.
His landlord tried to be as patient as he could, but he's got a mortgage to pay, so he's got to collect rent. So my cousin, his wife, and their 3 children were force to move out of their home, and back in with his parents. The community is doing charity event, after charity event.
Nothing hits home like when its your own family.
The good news is, she's in remission. But still, every Tuesday it's back to John's Hopkins for another round of radiation. That also means more gas, food, copays, deductibles, and a day of no income.

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Jeff Sock in Cranston, Rhode Island

47 months ago

To the person in Illinois, I know it is hard, and 4 appointments in three months is not good, you are doing something wrong, have you been in the field with your DSC? They need to go out with you a few times to show you how to do it.

Have you been going back and doing follow-ups at the companies you have been to? Try varying the times you make calls. I am not sure why you are not getting appointments. 3 months is a long time.

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hound in Illinois

47 months ago

No help from DSC or Region, tried going to State and that didn't help. Trying to transfer to a new location and state is refusing to let me go. Of course I'm doing something wrong - I have no sales background and can't get people to commit to anything - even those who say they want Aflac.

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