Lakwatserang Financial Advisor

“Your dose of travel and financial planning ideas.”

[lakwatserangfa]

My Challenging but FUN Bootcamp Journey!

In our industry, it has been a practice that we follow a strict standard so we can provide quality service to our clients. In my few months in the insurance business, there are a lot of setbacks, challenges and rejections that I have received.

As for me personally it has affected me big time, so let me share my story that I hope will inspire you too, to do your best and be the best person to be in this job. I know sales has been my weakness but still did my best especially in joining the business way back in December. I would always attend trainings, workshops, mentoring programs, and even joining communities where we share knowledge about the business too.

As a financial advisor, I was just an average person. I do activities (prospecting, approach, client meetings) but of course sometimes if your foundation is really not that good yet, it doesn’t convert. Most of the time, that’s my problem. I meet a lot of clients but it’s hard for me to close them or let them sign and submit the application. 

I still believed in myself that I can do it that’s why I would always improve my presentation skills, my storytelling skills, rapport gaming and even building relationships to my clients. In this way, there were people who trusted me and I was near to the closing ratio that I was targeting at least.

It came to a point that my first 90 days was nearing to an end, and it means that if I didn’t finish the quota, I will be on bootcamp. 

THEN IT HAPPENED. 

Back in July, I attended the whole day bootcamp training and was mentally drained after. It was chill at first because the UMs were just sharing their best practices, motivational and inspiring stories that made them where they are now. It was mentally draining because that same day, we need to set 20 appointments for that day. I would pray that my prospects will reply to my invitation and accept my invite. 

I message anyone and everyone on my contact list because I really had no choice. I almost wiped my friends list on facebook and even messaged strangers or the people I just added. Well, thankfully at around 11 pm, I finished the 20 set appointments but of course it was really draining. That’s why the next day I slept well and had 4 meetings waiting for me.

As time goes by, I still continue with my green activities and still be productive. But there were times also that I get distracted but I need to go back to the reason why I was doing this. Thankful to everyone who supported me through this journey.

Closing stories:

First client was one of my barkada for 10 years, she applied for his son.

Share ko lang yung client ko nung binalita ko na issued na policy ng anak niya. 😍😍😍 happy heart. Share ko na din back story niya, nung nagpresent ako sa kanya, meron na silang mag asawa pero nakinig pa rin siya and sabi nga niya next year na daw niya kukuhanan yung anak niya then si bibo Rejj, binida yung online application natin na mas madali, ayun nagpasend ng proposal at gi-no agad. Mej nahirapan lang ako sa pag follow up nung sa google forms kasi sobrang busy niya kasi may business din siya kaya ginawa ko, sige set nalang tayong zoom meeting at sabay natin sagutan yung details sa Pruone. 

Ayuuuun nung Wed (Aug 19) nagpaset siya ng meeting at 7am kasi nga sobrang busy siya pero nung chinat ko siya, di daw niya mahanap yung mga hinihingi kong docs kaya move namin ng later time, after ng meeting ko sa afternoon, nag meet na kami ulit. Tyinaga kong tanunging lahat ng details for Pruone and natuwa naman siya na naging patient ako sa pagfill out. 

Tapos nung nasa agent's report na kami, nagbagal yung internet ko, kala ko ayaw mag proceed kaya tinawagan ko si Ate Weng for help, at buti nalang wala siyang meeting. Tapos ayun in-encourage lang din niya kong antayin lang namin tapos ayuuuuun nag proceed din, sa sobrang tuwa ko nung lumabas yung policy number akala ko issued na kaya sumisigaw ako. hahahaha. Naexcite lang pala. Then eto nga issued na din kinabukasan. Happy na birthday pa talaga etong closing na to sobraaa. 😍😍😍

Another client that I submitted was my friend for 15 years, for her personal policy

Share ko lang closing ko last September 16. Friend ko siya for 15 years, classmate since elementary and college and actually matagal ko na siyang tinatiming-an sa facebook messenger pero hindi pala siya dun active kaya paramdam lang din sa IG. One time, nag chat siya kasi naalala niya na sa Pru ako and meron kasi nirerefer yung Kuya niya na agent kaya minessage muna niya ko bago siya mag decide. 

Nagset agad ng meeting sa kanya since available din siya the next day. Nag meeting kami pero inabot ng 3 hrs catch up at sobrang rapport lang talaga. In that way, kahit mineet parin niya yung agent na nirerefer ng kuya niya, ako parin ang pinili niya kasi nakakapag open up nga siya sakin ng mga kwento. 

Busy siya kaya, sabay kaming nagsagot ng pruone kaninang 10 am then, kwentuhan on the side nalang din para di naman puro serious usapan. Nung first try namin, nag unsuccessful yung BPI kaya sabi niya check lang muna niya kung may laman then nag meet ulit kami ng 5pm then ayun runthrough lang ulit then nag successful na din ang payment. Wohooooo! RAPPORT IS KEY! The only problem for this submission was we had to do some medical due to his recent hospitalization and family history.

Last client and super cut off warrior levels, was a cold market from LinkedIn

Back story ni client was a cold market from LinkedIn. Kinabahan pa ko kasi nga first time ko to meet a cold market pero sobrang warm niya and mabait. After nun, nakapag decide din siya, kaya nag meet kami ulit via zoom and gave her word na to apply it soon, tapusin lang niya yung launch niya. 

Mej mahirap i-follow up since cold market pero since mabait naman, patience nalang talaga. Kaya ayun nung nagka time siya, inanswer naming yung for Pruone niya then hindi kami nakapag proceed for payment since may problem siya sa OTP ng bank niya. That’s why, may sinuggest yung isa sa mga ka team namin na si Meg na i-editable forms ko nalang and mag pa sign ng ADA and ayuuuun. The night before akong magpapasa, pi-nrint ko lahat ng applications and requirements and ready to go.

ANGKAS GAMING STORY:

Maagang nagising para puntahan si client from Fairview to Taguig. Nag signing-an lang ng sobrang quick then derecho ng BOA Anex para isubmit ang application. Pagdating ng Anex, sabi ni kuya guard, "ma'am, offline lang po yung system, okay lang po ba na mag wait kayo pero ipila ko na din." Sabi ko, "sige po go lang." Then after 30 mins, um-okay naman na system. Nagtawag na ng number, then pang 4 lang din ako. Tinawag na lang ako ni kuya BOA assistant para ilagay yung app number sa ADA. Then tatak tatak na lang and then push naaaa! Uwian na ulit from Makati to Fairview. This is what we do for our clients and work. Angkas gaming is real!!! CUT OFF WARRIOR

After all those experiences, I finally got out of the bootcamp loop and delisting list. OMG! I just got the news from my manager that my last case was issued on the second to last day of the month. I am very thankful to my supporters, my manager Ivan, my recruiter and cousin Ate Weng. Also, to Noki for accompanying me on the cut off warrior angkas gaming story. Also, to my team mates who became supportive for us to survive and get through this. Shoutout to Meg, Juan and to everyone in the team.

[lakwatserangfa]

Appreciation Post for Camp Ares Batch 1

My camp pinuno heart won’t be complete if I missed out on thanking each and everyone from Camp Ares and here it goes:

Ej Salo of Peso Logic

Thank you for being the next on top of everything. Every time that I needed help in “rara”, posting and managing the camp, you’re all the way there to support. Thank you also for the help in other areas of content, being my tech person for my live videos. Haha. It seems that you’re enjoying naman, hahaha. Ako bahala sa’yo pag luwas mong Manila. Salamat sa mga prangkang inputs for the camp.

Reuel Pindoy of Your Life Engineer        

I know it was overwhelming for you at first because you were informed late, but don’t worry we were also informed just a week before. But thank you for still actively participating to our ganaps and even helped and stepped up on one of the breakouts (photo series) wherein you and Nikki was able to pull it off even though it was very spontaneous. So glad for all your inputs and even helped us with some issues. Pa-takoyaki ka naman jan.

Lui Baarde of The Financial Passionate

I know you were really busy the whole time, but you still managed to help us in any way you can and even do our last minute kalokohans for the camp. It was understandable that you forgot things that we’ve discussed but thank  you for doing your best to still keep up with everything. Wag ka na ulit mag back read ng group chat please. Haha.

Milo Garcia of Zambales Zillionaires

Thank you for showing leadership and creating initiatives for the camp. We’ve seen your efforts and I appreciate all the things that you’ve done. You’re very sweet too, leaving a feedback and appreciation on our pages and thanking us personally.  

Rica Rosales of Rise Filipina

Thank you for all the things that you have shared to the camp. I’ve always seen the potential in you, more push pa. I actually love your brand and it’s very posh and sosyal feels. It actually speaks about your personality and I also appreciate your enormous growth and improvement. It’s been quite a time that I follow your page and I really love how it is very clean and you also have beautiful visuals.

Michelle Padrelanan of Michelle Padrelanan – Homeschool Coach

Thank you for sharing your stories to us, I remember the first time we met at zoom then I was just asking questions and you shared your family and how you’re very proud with your home schooling. I’ve witnessed a lot of out of your comfort zone happenings with you and also growing your brand and I’m so happy to be part of it.

Darrick Tee of Your Happy Life

Thank you for being patient. I’ve seen your brand grow also and it has been growing well and I guess the mastercamp has helped you big time. I’m so happy to be of help, whenever you have questions. It’s been a tough journey working on the worksheets but you’ve did your best and I’m so happy for you.

Dario Rafer of The First Million Project

Thank you for being active even in our small meetings for the preparation of the mastercamp. I appreciate all the inputs and everything that you have shared. Thank you for actively participating too for all the activities.

JC Pena of Hustle Daddy

Thank you for all the ideas that you have shared. I also learned so many things from your sharing. Thank you also for stepping up even though you’re shy to share at the camp competition but you did well on your sharing about your content strategy.

Claydie Presto of Your Financial Doctor

You’ve been just quiet but whenever we ask for your inputs, you’re always full of ideas and things to share. Thank you for the patience in doing our worksheets and even shared your zoom for team meets when we were not able to be there because we had camp pinunos meeting. I appreciate your brand also and I love your content too. I’ve been seeing your content on my feed and I really love them.

Jay Banu of Financial Planner Says

Thank you for being my buddy for the 2nd buddy breakout, it was also refreshing meeting someone new in the community. I also got to know you a bit on our conversation via the breakout. Thank you for sharing ideas about your brand and how you can be consistent about it.

Juan Fernandez of Money Wanders

I know that we’ve known each other for quite some time now, but content wise we really haven’t discussed so many things that’s why I was so happy that you became part of my camp. Happy to help and even though you’ve been busy with so much you still find time to join us on some of the activities.

Michael Magayones of FindPAPS

I think you just joined us on the first day, but thank you still for your time and for doing the activities that we have thought of. Thank you for still updating us whenever you can’t join and I appreciate all the things that you’ve done.

Brien Ordiales of The Suited Advisor

Hi buddy, thank you for also stepping up especially in the chant. Thank you for your input and glad to help you also with your brand. I know you’ve been busy too, but thank you for joining most of the activities too.

Val Piquero of Valerie Piquero – Financial Advisor

Thank you for actively participating in all our activities. You’ve showed and shared so much inputs and ideas for the camp and helped everyone. Thank you for sharing your knowledge to all.

Cheers to your brands and hoping that we all grow our brands together. Continue to inspire people with your contents and help them in any way that you can. If you need anything or questions about your brands, I’m just a message away. See you all soon after this pandemic.

YOUR PINAKA “CHILL” CAMP PINUNO, REJJ SIBAYAN

JOIN OUR NEXT MASTERCAMP on OCTOBER 13, 15 and 17, 2020.

To know more about the mastercamp click here

USE MY CODE TO GET A DISCOUNT: ARS01RS

Some photos are from our co-campers and leaders.

PC Mastercamp Stories: DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 | Appreciation Post 1 

[lakwatserangfa]

Appreciation Post for the Organizers of PC Mastercamp

I KNOW THIS IS LATE, BUT I STILL WANTED TO DO IT ANYWAY...

I would like to thank Lui and Ate Diah for seeing the things I don’t really see in me; they saw the potential in me in leading a group. Growing up I was just really a good follower but sometimes if I have no choice I also step up to lead but it’s really not innate in me. But having the responsibility given by Lui and Ate Diah, I embraced it so well that leading the Camp Ares was something that I enjoyed doing.

At first, my plan was really to just have a chill team and “no pilitan” way of thinking and it actually just happened. Leading Camp Ares together with my co pinunos Ej and Reuel was really kinda smooth because we were just enjoying what we were doing. I appreciate all your help especially when we need to “rara” something on our group chat. We even had early retro meetings because I just insisted them to wake up early. Haha. Nonetheless, we really never expected that we would jive together as what Reuel said, because we were from different backgrounds. But as we became closer, we had our fair share of bully minds as our combination, maybe that’s why we really jived. Haha. Even after our pinunos stint, we still have random kwentuhan on our group chat and even just had a quick video call.

I would also love to appreciate my co-camp pinunos from the other camps, Z for Apollo, Carla for Aphrodite, Nikki for Athena and Caroline for Artemis, GHOOORL power right there and then. I appreciate that they also share their best practices to the group so that it might work on our ends too. We also have random kwentuhan over video call and just share our stories.

I would like to appreciate also the hard work of our speakers, Lui, Ian, Lad and also to Ate Diah. They shared their hearts out on their certain topics and made everyone in awe of the learnings and experiences shared by them.  

Also, for all the push made by Franz, for me personally he had his ways and I truly appreciate everything that he has done towards me.

To our level up team, Kat and Miriam, thank you for your patience and I appreciate your talents that you have shared to the team.

My favorite part would have to be the hosting skills of RX because she would always set the mood and create the energy for everyone. She put her heart to the energy competition and even to her pang malakasan spiels.

To my co-officers also who became part of this project, Nikko, Jay Ar, Jay, Ate Sheng and Tim thank you for a job well done. We all did it. It was all a team effort for everyone and for all the campers.

JOIN OUR NEXT MASTERCAMP on OCTOBER 13, 15 and 17, 2020.

To know more about the mastercamp click here

USE MY CODE TO GET A DISCOUNT: ARS01RS

Some photos are from our co-campers and leaders.

PC Mastercamp Stories: DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 | Appreciation Post 2

[lakwatserangfa]

Passionate Creators Mastercamp (Camp Pinuno POV) DAY 3

On our third day of the mastercamp, we had another retro with the Ares pinunos and just had to do things.

Before our mastercamp, we had a quick meeting with some of our campers including Milo and Claydie.

Prior to the mastercamp, I had a very quick stint in our unit because we were the hosts for the fun night that’s why I had to attend to it and delegated most of my task to our co-pinunos Reuel and Ej. While on the fun night, I was also half focused on the mastercamp and heard that we will be having the energy competition already that’s why I had my off cam from the fun night and danced with how much I can to join the Camp Ares energy competition. Fortunately, we won from the 3rd day energy competition.After our fun night, I went back to the mastercamp and everything was smooth thanks to my co-pinunos.

First topic for the last day was Writing Fundamentals by Ian Dilla, it was a very good topic for all the campers since it helped them ideate their Awareness, Consideration and Decision of their audience that they can use as outline for their pages.

Next up was the content breakout rooms for Video with Lad Gutierrez,

and Photo and Graphics series with Dianna Diaz wherein my co-pinuno Reuel and Nikki took over when Ate Diah got disconnected. Everyone enjoyed their new learnings and hopefully they can apply it soon.

Last topic was the Content Strategy discussed by Lui Baarde. She shared how we can be more productive by creating all the contents at the same time and scheduling our posts. 

She also helped us doing our content calendars that will help us in the long run for our pages.

After her talk, we had the camp breakout wherein we shared our own content calendars and how we can be consistent and follow it through our postings.

After the sharing, last competition for the night was the content strategy sharing and we chose JC Pena of Hustle Daddy to show and explain his content strategies to the other campers.

For our closing, we had special awards for the campers who stepped up and embodied the core values of Passionate Creators. 

Our awards were Camaraderie for the most engaged, Generosity for the leadership and initiative, Courage for the one who showed courage and went out of comfort zone, and Kaizen for the one who showed enormous growth and improvement.

We also showcased the highlights of the 3 day mastercamp, edited by Jay Ar Almanzor and Lui Baarde as our last ganap for the day. We extended to 11 pm but seeing everyone enjoying all the shenanigans was so overwhelming for me because I became part of the organizing committee for this gathering and a one of kind mastercamp for content creators.

Famfie

Day 3 of the mastercamp was very helpful for everyone especially when it comes to what kind of content that we can create and also the strategies that we can do for our pages.

My share of learnings from this Mastercamp, everything will be possible as long as we have the team work that we all showed and how we supported each other through the highs and lows of every activity that we’ve done for the mastercamp. Everyone involved were so game to make it happen and just from the vision of our founder Lui, it all came to life because of all the hardwork of everyone.

Extended camp pinunos meeting for Camp Ares and the things we can improve more for our next mastercamps.

JOIN OUR NEXT MASTERCAMP on OCTOBER 13, 15 and 17, 2020.

To know more about the mastercamp click here

USE MY CODE TO GET A DISCOUNT: ARS01RS

Appreciation post for all the people involved, on the next post....

Some photos are from our co-campers and leaders.

PC Mastercamp Stories: DAY 1 | DAY 2 | Appreciation Post 1 | Appreciation Post 2

[lakwatserangfa]

Passionate Creators Mastercamp (Camp Pinuno POV) DAY 2

On our second day, being the pinuno for Camp Ares and because we finished late from last night, I asked for a very early retro meeting at 8 am. Then just had a quick nap and some time for my page, I just did a live stream video with Caris Sanchez.

Before the mastercamp, we opened a zoom for our campers who need help for their worksheets and assignments, Darrick was able to join us.

Then 30 minutes before our mastercamp, we were at the zoom meeting already for the last minute briefing and reminders. We then opened the meeting room for the mastercampers and they all came inside the meeting room.

First up was same introduction and an energy competition facilitated by RX. We just danced our hearts out and enjoyed the dance moves made by RX.

First activity for the day was about our vision board, Lui led the orientation on how we will discuss with our buddies on the breakout. We were then moved to the buddy breakout; I was partnered with Brien again and we just shared our vision boards for our brands.

Back to the main room and another discussion by Lad with the topic on Brand Consistency - Stylescape Workshop.

We were then moved to camp breakout for the stylescape workshop and sharing our outputs. 

We were also visited by the coaches, Lad

Jay Ar

Ate Diah

and Lui

Back to the main room, the sharer from our camp was Rica Rosales and she shared on how she created the stylescape for her brand, Rise Filipina.

Then we ended the mastecamp with a bang and had a mastercamp famfie.

We just had a retro after. 

Day 2 was kinda chill because I just absorbed all the learnings and also the ideas shared by my campers. They had so much to share that’s why I was just a very keen listener.

JOIN OUR NEXT MASTERCAMP on OCTOBER 13, 15 and 17, 2020.

To know more about the mastercamp click here

USE MY CODE TO GET A DISCOUNT: ARS01RS

Day 3 of PC Mastercamp is neeeext!!

Some photos are from our co-campers and leaders.

PC Mastercamp Stories: DAY 1 | DAY 3 |  Appreciation Post 1 | Appreciation Post 2

[lakwatserangfa]

Passionate Creators Mastercamp (Camp Pinuno POV) DAY 1

Last week, I was part of an amazing event called Passionate Creators Mastercamp organized by Passionate Creators. Led by the core leaders Lui Baarde, Dianna Diaz, Lad Gutierrez, Ian Dilla, Jay Ar Almazon and Franz Padi/lla together with the officers. It was a 3-night workshop full of learnings from different topics on social media branding. 5 camps that includes, Ares, Aphrodite, Apollo, Artemis, and Athena with over 70+ attendees.

Let me take you to the journey as a team lead for one of the camps, it was Camp Ares.

On the first day, all team leads and everyone involved on the back end were at the zoom meeting earlier and we had an ice breaker by RX before we open the mastercamp to our campers.

Then we went back to our camps to just give last minute instructions and reminders and went back to the zoom meeting all at the same time.

The whole event was hosted by RX Carzo and she had so much energy that we imbibed the positivity and the energy that made the mastercamp more fun. So, we started with a prayer of course then she also discussed the PC Mastercamp goal, a few reminders for all campers, accountability partners, hashtag contest and introduce our first activity for the day.

We then went to our different breakout rooms and as for me as the pinuno for Camp Ares, I facilitated the discussion and kumustahan of the campers. First activity that we did was to input three words to describe each of the members via the mentimeter website. We then did our camp proclamation, We are Camp Ares, God of War, we are genuine, ambitious and honest. After that activity, we also had the time to practice our chant that I prepared together with Ej. We also had on the spot action or movements for the chant presentation. 

Back to the main room, we presented our proclamation and chant presentation.

After our breakout sessions and presentation, the first topic was discussed by Lui Baarde. Her topic was about Brand Identity, Message and Voice.

We then had a quick buddy breakout to share about our brand identity, message and voice. As for me, I was partnered with Brien and we just discussed about our brands then we went to our camp breakout and shared to our camp mates.

Back to the main room, we shared our brand archetypes to the mastercampers and the sharer from our camp was Michelle Padrelanan.

Then next speaker was Ian Dilla discussing about Brand Focus - Knowing your Audience.

After his discussion, we were moved to our buddy breakout again, this time it was Jay because Brien had to leave early due to prior commitment. 

Then we were moved to the camp breakout again and shared what we discussed with our buddies. Back to the main room, we just shared again to the mastercampers.

Lastly was the Brand Identity summary by Lad Gutierrez and he also gave the campers their homework, to create their own design vision board. 

After 4 hours of activities, before we bid goodbye to our campers, partial scores were also shown. Athena was leading on the first day.

Were also had a famfie with the campers.

We ended the day 1 with a prayer.

We also had day 1 retrospective with the officers and core. We just discussed about the things that we need to improve, the things that we did well and also the best practices shared by different camp pinunos.

Day 1 was a jampacked of activities and everyone was very excited and eager to learn from everyone. Not just with the speakers but also to their fellow campers. It was quite a challenge for me at first but eventually when I got the high of it, I became comfortable and adjusted in a way that I also enjoyed the first day. It was so much fun.

JOIN OUR NEXT MASTERCAMP on OCTOBER 13, 15 and 17, 2020.

To know more about the mastercamp click here

USE MY CODE TO GET A DISCOUNT: ARS01RS

Day 2 of mastercamp is neeeext!!

Some photos are from our co-campers and leaders.

PC Mastercamp Stories: DAY 2 | DAY 3 | Appreciation Post 1 |  Appreciation Post 2

[lakwatserangfa]

Rejections are endless but...

Have you ever been rejected even once in your life?

If not, maybe you’re perfect but if yes let me share my story with you.

Growing up, I was a very talkative child that I even talk to strangers. Without me realizing it was one of the best traits that I’ll ever have.

When I was around 7 years old I came to Manila to study. It was a big change for me since I am used to the province life. At first, it was hard for me to adjust but eventually I got used to it. In school, teachers know me because my Aunt was a teacher. They would always have high expectations from me. O, well as an average student in elementary and high school I really didn’t care but of course there will be a time that people won’t believe in you or will reject the things that you do. Even though most of the times you’ve done your best it will never be enough because I was jailed to the idea of being a shadow of my Aunt.

 Then came college, I was on my own. I had my decisions to myself, and only trust that I would do well at least. Living the college life, still the average student that I was and a very chill person. I never take life seriously especially those things that I can’t really solve. I tend to pray a lot and ask for guidance. College life as they say is one of the hardest part because of the things you learn not just in the walls of your classroom but also in preparation for adult life. I’ve received so many rejections, a lot of doubts from other people and yet I was so chill about it and really never mind the sad moments of life. I’d always choose to be happy and positive about anything and everything that comes my way.

Of course college is just a preparation, but the real battle is when you step out of school and go to the real world or what they say the adulting life. For me actually, even before graduation I already prepared and sent out resumes to different companies and luckily out of those several job applications that I sent out, one company noticed me and eventually hired me. It was easy at first because we have trainings to learn more about the business but as times goes by, there were challenges that we can’t control. Of course there will be people who won’t believe in you but I’ve learned that you should still be positive about it and be with those people who believe in you and push you harder to be better. Few months after in my first job, I got tired with the routinary tasks and asked the Lord that if it's for me, let me stay but if not let me go. And then came, when I had to go. Without any plans, I got out of that work.

After that stint that I was so burnt out, I had to pursue something that I love and passionate about which was blogging. That time, with having only a few savings from my salary and back pay I went with it. It was not routinary, it was different everyday. I would always attend events from one brand to another and know a lot of people from different walks of life. I enjoyed it so much until I was just left with a little to paubos money left on my bank account that's why I had to stop for a while in accepting invites. I know blogging was a hobby and it really never came to mind that I would make money from blogging. Also, there were times that relatives would already push you again to find a more stable job rather than just blogging. And then pressure prevails that I had to look for one again.

Luckily after so many attempts of sending my resume again to different companies, my dream company came. Or should I say this was supposed to be the job for me after college but I didn’t get it that's why I was not sure if I should pursue. So I worked as a researcher and coordinator and most of the time production assistant. Imagine this was the dream job that I really wanted and I was already there. I’ve been through a lot of good and bad moments throughout my stay there. There were a lot of rejections, doubts, bad relationship with co workers, but what I treasure most in my stay there was all the learnings. I had to self learn most of the tasks because there was no orientation, sabak agad. The people who taught me so many things and even touched my life in so many ways. But of course, in every destination there is always a finish line and I had to leave even though I liked it there because I valued my health and even trying to be civil with co workers who I had bad relationship with.

Then came another opportunity, a whole different industry from what I used to. In all fairness, this was way better at least at first. It was actually a one day hiring kind because I was interviewed by the hr associate and manager then final interview by the CFO and owner of the company then they texted me that same night that I was already hired. It was fun most of my stay but of course there will be challenges and this includes my higher up or better “term” immediate supervisor. Most of the things that I’ve done was really smooth until such time that my higher up saw me as a competitor. It was never really the intention and I was just doing the tasks given to me. O well politics in the corpo world is real for I had to experience it first hand. I know I have done my part as an employee and don't break rules but really never got regularized because of petty and subjective evaluations. Even HR can attest that most of the things written on my evaluation was very poor for a performance that I really have done my best. Since those things happened, I can’t tolerate it anymore that's why I left.

Another opportunity came into my life and it was another different industry. My stay there was quite good. We were only a few people in the office that’s why I got to know them better. We would eat lunch together as one and even some of the owners eat with us. It was actually a safe place for me because I found a family in them. But of course, there were also challenges. There was a time that not all my work would be approved or acknowledged but that’s totally fine because we really cannot please everyone. 

Rejections are endless but... they come and go. 

Never focus on the negative instead, find the positive side of it. As for me, I’m a very positive and cheerful person that’s why whenever I receive any rejection or doubt I would just tell myself, “si Lord na bahala sa kanya”. We can never control everything that happens to our life that’s why we need to just go with the flow and live with the present. We never know what’s in it for us, that’s why let’s just be positive of the things that we do and receive. I know sometimes it gets draining or tiring whenever it’s already loading you but you just have to unload and let God take control over everything. 

Before, I would always overthink things in my life but when I surrendered everything to God my life has always been chill. There are challenges because it molds us as a person and lead us to the things we are prepared for. 

So relax, it’s not only you who got rejected but everybody was. Just pray for it and move on. That’s one of the best trait that I learned throughout this journey.

[lakwatserangfa]

Life Insurance is a scam!

Have you ever thought what’s the use or benefits of life insurance? If no, why even bother to hate the idea or why even take financial advisors for granted? Maybe because you are lost or simply you have zero knowledge about it. Let me share some knowledge to you so that whenever you see or talk to a financial advisor in the future, you won’t be close-minded about it anymore.

The basic knowledge that you need to know is that life insurance has guaranteed benefits for you whatever happens to your life.

For example, you were diagnosed with sickness (cancer, heart attack, etc.)

My question for you is where will you get money to recover or to cover the expenses of your hospitalization?

Another example is when you met an accident (car accident, injuries, etc.)

How will you be able to survive that accident? Will you be needing time off from work to recover?

Another is when you get disabled (paralyzed body, disable due to accident, etc.)

How can you continue your life? How will you be able to sustain your lifestyle if you cannot work anymore?

And lastly, this is definite but we never know when will it happen, of course death.

How would you like your family to feel when you’re gone, be a burden or a blessing to them? Would you like your family to continue the lifestyle that they have even though you're dead?

AND WHAT PRODUCT CAN SOLVE THIS KIND OF SITUATIONS IN LIFE?

It is Life Insurance.

Life Insurance will give you the benefits whatever happens to you on life uncertainties.

Life Insurance will let you claim this benefits guaranteed.

Look at it this way,

When you get sick, Life Insurance will give you money to recover from the sickness.

When you met an accident, Life Insurance will take care of your hospitalization and give you money to help you recover.

When you get disabled, Life Insurance will give you money to be able to continue with your life.

When you die, Life Insurance will give your family money so that they can continue their life even without you.

LIFE INSURANCE WILL GIVE YOU MONEY!

So now, let me ask you is Life Insurance a scam?

On top of that, if you get the VUL program it has another pocket which is the investment or savings.

For example, you are saving 5k a month that's 60k a year. In our VUL program, your money is growing through time with around 12.45% growth rate but of course this is not guaranteed since it will depend on the market volatility. If ever nothing happens to you in the next few years and you reach your retirement age, you will live comfortably by the time comes that you don't have income anymore.

So let me ask you again, is Life Insurance a scam?

Let me know if this changed your perspective about life insurance because I can help you with planning your finances.

[lakwatserangfa]

Thoughts on Financial Planning

Why bother to do Financial Planning?

They say that planning for your future will eventually save you but most people shrug this part of their life. They don't give time to do it because of lack knowledge and resources. They don't know anyone in the finance industry to help them that's why they just stop from there.

Have you ever imagined your life in future?

When I was younger, I wanted to have my own house for me and for my future family but as times pass by it changed. I dreamt of having a beach house since I love nature and be around the beach. Eventually the beach house dream bloomed and became a resort. I wanted to enjoy life while doing what I love to do.

Having a family of my own is also part of my dreams. Someday I would like to have a beach wedding, marry my best friend and have children. A very raw imagination still, because I haven't met the one. Will update you on that.

I've been travelling too to different places to learn, explore, and discover new things in life. Whenever I travel, I let my imagination wander and feel the nature or the place that I am at. Travelling for me is a safe space for me to be renewed and be energized.

Why plan?

Because in real life, we really never know what's gonna happen but we still do some planning especially about our finance. When you save up today, it will save us in the future. There are life uncertainties that we never know when will happen. Will our savings be enough when this happen? This is one of the reasons why we need to plan ahead.

Who to ask and how to plan for your future?

First of all, you have to gain knowledge and find resources. In this day and age, there are a lot of financial advisors in the country who can help us. They can teach us how to budget, learn to fix our finances and even have our life insurance and future investments. The only thing for you to do is open your doors to opportunities and listen to them and understand what's in it for you.

When do you plan to start?

I advise you to plan NOW.

[lakwatserangfa]

My FA Journey with PRU!

Hey Lakwatseras,

Currently I’m a licensed financial advisor of Pru Life UK at Two Summit Life Insurance Agency and I wanted to share with you my journey. Let me take you through my journey here:

BYB: Build Your Business (Photo from Ivan Lontoc)

Ate Weng (my recruiter) shared the benefits of being an FA. Out of curiosity, I attended the career preview on December 16, 2019 at TUSLIA office in La Fuerza. The business presentation was presented by Eka Caraan and the sharers were Gel Dizon and Sei Grospe. I learned so much from them and it got me more interested to try the business. I was interviewed by UM Giann Elumbaring and as always assisted by the super bait, Ivan Lontoc.

The next day, I started the BTC online modules and finished them on December 18, 2019. Submitted my requirements to Rod our unit assistant and he helped me out whenever I have questions. 

Classroom BTC (Basic Training Course) Photo from Michael Dela Cruz

I attended the half day training on December 23, 2019, it was facilitated by Michael Dela Cruz. From company policies, dress code, violations, agent’s benefits, commissions and etc.. 

On January 25, 2020, I woke up early for the IC (Insurance Commission) Exam, the exam took place at the 9th floor of ANEX (Pru office) in Makati. I was kinda nervous even though I studied all the reviewers. I was at the venue around 7:30 am and fell in line to register for the exam. We were then given, the answer sheets and the questionnaire. First was the Traditional Exam, where it only took me around 30 minutes to finish. The next was the Variable Exam wherein it took me around an hour to finish. After my exam, I got to check my reviewers and saw some of my mistakes already but still positive about the results. I finished early that’s why I had the time to walk from ANEX to Chino Roces where TUSLIA office is. It will be where my next training will take place.

After my exam, it was Debriefing time. Our facilitator was Aaron Dumigpig. He taught us about prospect mapping, different kinds of approach, and also shared sample spiels that we can use. Our activity for that day was to approach our prospects, either through social media chat or call.

After Debriefing, I can officially attend trainings. My first training was on January 28, 2020 which was the PruOne class where one of our teammates Juan Fernandez was the facilitator. He taught us how to use the app for our clients, and some tricks too. He also shared how he collects data through google forms.

My first coffee talk was on February 13, 2020, held at the City Club in Makati. Together with my teammates with our Unit Manager Ivan Lontoc. 

Exam results also went out on February 19, 2020 and thankfully I passed both traditional and variable exams. I was so happy because my motivation that time was I can’t afford to retake the exam because I had no more cash. Haha

My first time to attend the unit meeting was on February 23, 2020, held at the 6th floor of Trevi Towers. 

Finally on March 9, 2020, CODING was up and I was one of them. Officially part of the agency force. Wohoooo.

Official welcome on March 20, 2020 by UM Ivan. 

So far my experience here is very fun. Of course it’s not all fun, there are struggles and rejections along the way but you know what, I AM ENJOYING (capslock para intense). At first it was just curiosity but when I learned to do the business, I enjoyed it. Sharing the same passion with my teammates also gives me the motivation to do more activities on my own. So if you ask me, YES I’m having fun here because I found a family with the same passion. Thankful to my unit manager Ivan for all the guidance and to my recruiter Ate Weng for all the help and patience. Labyu all.