Lawrence Landed on His Feet

After a 25-year career as an environmental operator with a paper company, Mike Lawrence (AL N) suddenly found himself looking for a new career at age 49. “They shut down our plant in Texas and put 1,000 people out of work,” he said.

While he didn’t find a job like his previous one, Lawrence found something even better when he relocated to Alabama. “I met my wife and she was a Representative with WoodmenLife,” he said. “After watching what she did and being around people in the company, it sounded interesting to me.” So in April 2006, Lawrence signed on as a Representative. “I’ve never once wavered and thought I wanted to do something else,” he said.

What is a typical work day like for you?

My day consists of contacting potential new members and servicing current members. I’m blessed enough that I was able to hire an assistant to help me set appointments. Since then, my business has gone up 30 percent. It’s a real time saver for me, so I can accomplish other things and do more with my chapter.

What is your favorite product to sell and why?

Single Premium Whole Life because it has a good interest rate for people looking to get a return on their money, plus the death benefit is income tax free. It’s especially good for seniors because they can get to their money if they need it.

What secrets to success do you have for other Representatives?

What works for me is the fact that I have a passion for this career. When you have a passion for it, you want to study, learn and get all the knowledge you can. I’m always looking for a new way to do something. I don’t ever want to go back to working for an hourly wage or salary. I’ll take commission all day long.

What’s your favorite part of this career?

I’d have to say all the friendships I’ve developed with people in this area. When I started, it was hard making a 100-name list because I didn’t know anybody. But I got out there and I made all my benchmarks. I’m pretty proud of that! I’ve met so many nice people who are now friends and clients.