17% industry retention rate for 1st year reps - Financial Representative Northwestern Mutual Employee Review

1.0
Mar 17, 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Its who you know, not what you know. If you know a lot of affluent ppl that re willing to spend their $ w.you, its a great place, if you don't, expect to feel like a telemarketer because you will make a LOT of cold calls.

Cons

Our particular office is extremely political. You have to brown nose to get any orphaned clients (which are easy to sell to). Brown-nosing is also required to move up to the position of a field directer. I have watched countless reps quit after 3-6 months. The training in our office is horrible...from what I hear though, other offices are much better when it comes to training...

Explore other reviews about Northwestern Mutual

5.0
Jul 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Flexibility in hours and WFH. Creative control on financial planning. High standards of excellence. Excellent work environment - new office downtown. Sense of fulfillment helping people achieve financial independence.

Cons

Very challenging career path for the first few years with huge financial payoffs in the future.

5.0
Jun 17, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

This internship has allowed me to get real world experience from the very beginning. I've learned how to use LinkedIn Recruiter, make scheduling and screening phone calls, and gotten to shadow the Director of Recruitment during interviews. Compared to other internships that I applied for, Northwestern Mutual has allowed me to have far more exposure to what a real career in recruiting could look like. The office has a great energy and culture, and I am able to participate in fun team events, like going to the Cardinals baseball game. As for career growth, I really admire the emphasis that Northwestern Mutual places on growth and development. Through my time spent around this company, I've been personally and professionally challenged to grow. I've been given books to read, attended leadership meetings, and been given the opportunity to dive deep into my strengths. The management here has encouraged me to explore and shadow different roles to help me make an informed decision about what kind of careers I want to pursue after graduation. Overall, I can't recommend this company enough! They are truly focused on serving their clients well, and developing employees to reach their full potential.

Cons

None, I've had a great experience! This is an environment of growth, so it can require moments of being challenged and stretched to do things outside your comfort zone. I could see some people being uncomfortable with growth, so it's not the environment for everyone! But if you are willing to lean in, it will make such an impact on your life.

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