Northwestern Mutual – “Proceed with Caution”

Pros

The products offered are exceptional, and the overall philosophy of doing the right thing for the clients at all times is attractive. They own the Frank Russell company so their clients have access to them where others would not. They also are a true mutual company so they don't have shareholders to answer to. The profits of the company go back to policyowners in the form of dividends, with five billion to be paid back to policyowners for 2008.

Cons

While the home office seems run well, the field office where most of the revenue generating activity takes place has minimal regulation on how employees are treated. They don't explain compensation, encourage debt, feel as independent contractors that nothing is off limits for supervision. I've seen with some of the female reps this could include their marriage, appearance, weight, languages spoken, ethnicity, age, overall attractiveness, what kind of car is driven or clothes worn. Male representatives seem to be treated more favorably, but I wouldn't want my wife working here. While there are guidelines in the Field Code of Conduct they do not seem enforceable and are more like suggestions.

Advice to Senior Management

Follow the golden rule, ensure that training in processing paperwork is as adequate as sales training so that clients don't pay the price for inexperienced representatives and support the veterans as much as the new recruits. Soliciting feedback from those who have proven successful and actually listening to it might be useful in improving overall operations.