What initially attracted you to join Pacific Life and how has your career path evolved?

I was initially attracted to Pacific Life out of college because I needed a full-time job! I had seen Pacific Life a few times in college sports commercials and remembered the company from its sponsorship of the Pacific Life Holiday Bowl, in which the Nebraska Cornhuskers (my alma mater) played. I also knew there was a local office in Omaha, and it seemed like a great place to start my career. I did not have long-term aspirations to be at the company for this long at that time, but I’m glad that I pursued Pacific Life. 

My career path has evolved significantly during my time here. I’ve served in a number of different sales roles, from Case Coordinator to Internal Wholesaler, to Sales Desk Manager, and then to Internal Wholesaling Director, where I serve today.
 

What is your role today? Tell us about your job responsibilities and what a typical day looks like for you.

My role today is Internal Wholesaling Director, supporting our affluent and select Life Insurance distribution channels (Producer Groups, Independent Financial Professionals, WFG, Edward Jones, Wirehouse, Marketing Organizations). Part of my role is overseeing the successful operations of our Internal Wholesalers and our Sales Desk. 

This means strategizing on ways to ensure long-term, high-level performance of our individuals, aligning with National Sales Leaders on their strategies and goals, along with meeting and exceeding our sales goals through clearly defined processes. I also aim to be a trusted leader who partners well with the stakeholders around our organization and the enterprise.

How has Pacific Life supported your career growth and development?

Where do I start? I think Pacific Life has supported my career growth and development in too many ways to count. I can say I would not be where I am today without excellent leadership throughout my career who has always been receptive to hearing about my career aspirations. Not only that, but they actively helped and continue to help me prepare myself for those aspirations by challenging me with new opportunities and responsibilities, along with feedback (which is a gift, I swear!).

I will also say that Pacific Life has world-class training and development courses, including the Sales Academy and Leadership Academy. Each of the courses that I’ve attended has helped me further my career and helped me to become more effective in each of my roles.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in sales?

“Ask for the Sale” – the earlier you get comfortable asking for what you want, the faster your career can progress. For example, the best Internal Wholesalers always close a phone call or meeting with an ask for action. “When can we meet next” or “When can I expect the application to arrive?” 

This advice extends far beyond a phone call with a Financial Professional and is relevant to your career in general. During your job interviews, be closing with an ask for the role and have a story that allows you to stand out from other applicants. During your one-on-one meetings with your leader, be open and honest about your aspirations for your future and career. Nobody can tell the story of you better than you. I think you’ll find that your leadership is very receptive to helping you want to advance, but they also cannot read your mind. Ask for the sale!
 

What do you enjoy most about working on our Sales team? Do you have any favorite memories or team achievements?

What I enjoy most about working on our sales team is the energy and camaraderie that is constantly present. The sales desks in Omaha and Newport Beach have a reputation for infectious energy and that’s something that we’ve liked to highlight over the years. Our teams are friendly yet competitive and I think that’s the perfect mix of what you look for in a sales organization.

I have many favorite memories and team achievements over the years. Of course, each year that we hit goal in our product lines is a cause for celebration. We also get together and celebrate team and individual successes yearly at our annual Internal Wholesaling Award ceremonies.

 
What makes Pacific Life a great place to work? Why should others consider joining our team?

There are so many positives to working at Pacific Life. I speak regularly with individuals both inside and outside of our industry and when I hear them describing their work environment, I realize how well Pacific Life does in terms of recognizing its employees and making this a great place to work. From the hybrid work environment to the catered lunches, to the summer hours (and shoutout to former rejuvenation days!), to the support of leadership and our stakeholders.

The development that employees receive is top-notch and I believe the company truly thrives by helping team members achieve their career goals. Not only that, but the company is philanthropic and regularly hosts weeks of service that support foundations of our choosing. I recommend Pacific Life to potential candidates as often as I can.