Interview.... Help!

[Katie E]

Originally Posted by Saphellae

Guh, it took me an hour to drive there today to check the place out so I don't get lost (Montreal is hugeeee). It was a bit crowded on the roads because it was almost rush hour, but gosh it's going to be **** if I get the job to commute lol.

Ah, but darlin', you did your homework and checked out the territory. Tomorrow you'll allow sufficient+ time for your travel. You'll be just fine. Sleep well. Sweet dreams.

[Saphellae]

Alright, typing up my notes for the interview then doing my nails and getting ready.. I'm starting to feel nervous!

Time to start... I'm going to put some feel good music and sing all morning while I get ready.

[kitchenelf]

OK - we're all waiting on the edge of our seats and we're starting to bite each OTHER'S nails.....do tell us how it went!

[Saphellae]

I just got back. The interview went well and I was asked back for the second out of three.

I discovered some things that I will have to talk to DH about. The basic jist of it is that I would be working as my own boss and business owner, backed by a huge company with training materials and a wealth of knowledge at my fingertips.

I'd be paying a fee of 400-500 dollars a month for office and things. Kind of like real estate, except its financial planning.

What do you guys think about this? If any of you are in the type of entrepreneurial position I could use some advice.

For the next interview I have to bring a 1-2 page write up on how I would generate new clientele.

Help! I need to talk to DH about this as I am not sure myself. The income is great if you can do it.

[jennyema]

I was going to warn you that I thought it was this type of arrangement.

Having worked in the financial services/insurance industry all my life, basically, I would recommend against it unless you have some serious $$ to back yourself up, as it usually takes quite a long time to make any money. Remember you are talking about income potential -- there is potential to make good money only if things go your way. If not, the losses are all yours. And though some people do, in fact, make a lot of money as an agent, most don't.

Also, you need to be a great salesperson and confidant in that skill. You also need to be very knowledgeable about the products you are selling.

Just a few things to consider:

What products are you selling?

Where do your leads come from?

Do you have a designated market?

What's the commission structure?

Do they give you liability insurance?

If you are interested in this kind of work, I would suggest getting a real full time job within the company, as an employee, perhaps in one of their product areas or in marketing. You'd learn about the products that you one day may be selling as well as learning about what makes salespeople successful without the financial pressure of having to learn on the job.

[Fisher's Mom]

I agree strongly with Jennyema. In general, if you are interviewing for a job, they will pay you and not the reverse. These people are selling a service, which is fine but they didn't make this clear up front. Would you have even gone on the "interview" if they had told you on the phone that this would cost you $400-500/mo.? Better to put that money toward some classes or certifications in this area, IMHO.

[David Cottrell]

This is the same as the real estate companies - many charge a desk fee, give some service to help with the final paperwork, offer general training, generally informal by informal trainers if you can follow that. Commissions are the way everyone is paid, starting with a 50-50 split with the company and then as you become more valuable and they have to relax, your split goes up or they lose you and they know it. Yes, it is your business to build, finding customers, advertising yourself, getting the real training, etc. etc. A tiny number in the field really make it - about 20% really do generate about 80% of the sales. It is a sales business and you better understand that going in. Lots of people love helping people - my daughter is a great nurse and loves it but ain't no way she could be a sales professional.

People do make some realy money but you better first believe that you are truly star material and know why with a plan. Bet you they have you list a hundred people you know to some degree, family, friends, acquaintances, bank teller, clerk where you buy gas, and on. You start with family first and go from there. Referals are your life blood.

Best of luck - whatever your decision hit it hard!

[Saphellae]

Thanks for the advice.. I had a funny feeling when I left the interview and you all confirmed it. I won't be going to the second interview for this, and my search continues.

I really appreciate all of your advice.

[Fisher's Mom]

Originally Posted by Saphellae

Thanks for the advice.. I had a funny feeling when I left the interview and you all confirmed it. I won't be going to the second interview for this, and my search continues.

I really appreciate all of your advice.

Don't get discouraged. You're smart and witty and well-spoken - there will be the perfect job out there for you! Keep us up on your search.

[Saphellae]

Thanks FM! I will keep you all posted :)