CARPE DIEM: HOW BUILDING A BUSINESS IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY CAN BE REWARDING

Gray Ramirez, an AIA Philippines Life Planner, challenges the traditional negative perception of insurance agents. He highlights the evolving role of professionals in life insurance, emphasizing the rewarding opportunities comparable to other industries. Formerly an executive in the BPO industry, Gray's health and family relationships suffered due to irregular working hours. During a policy review, his life planner encouraged him to become a Life Planner, leading him to join AIA Philippines in 2016.

The transition proved life-changing for Gray, offering better time management and improved well-being. His newfound career garnered professional recognition, with Gray qualifying for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) within a year—an elite group of top-performing life planners worldwide. AIA Philippines empowers individuals with a business opportunity supported by digital tools and a comprehensive development platform.

Orwen Siao, AIA Philippines' Head of Quality Recruitment, emphasizes the company's commitment to providing the best support for Life Planners. Gray highlights AIA Philippines' unique approach, prioritizing education over sales. When interacting with clients, the focus is on goal-setting to understand their needs before offering tailored financial solutions.

AIA Philippines aims to change the stigma associated with advisors by promoting an educational approach, challenging the perception that advisors prioritize selling over understanding clients' needs. Gray's success story exemplifies the potential to build a rewarding business while positively impacting others' lives. Joining AIA Philippines offers an opportunity to break free from conventional career paths and make a meaningful difference.

TIPS FOR ACHIEVING YOUR (FINANCE) GOALS

Edna Liz Medalla-Damaso, a former banking professional with over 16 years of experience, transitioned to AIA Philippines in 2016 to embark on an entrepreneurial journey focused on financial planning. Now entering her fourth year with AIA Philippines, Edna shares valuable strategies to help clients maximize their hard-earned money and achieve financial goals.

One key approach is setting S.M.A.R.T. goals—specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timebound. Edna emphasizes the importance of adjusting goals at different life stages, citing her own shift towards work-life balance after a long banking career. This flexibility allowed her to join AIA Philippines, where she works at her own pace while pursuing her SMART goals.

Edna advocates saving at least 20% of income, aligning with the 50/30/20 budget rule. Instead of letting savings idle, she advises allocating funds for insurance, ensuring family protection. Disciplined spending on needs, not wants, is crucial to financial success. Edna warns against impulsive buying, highlighting the significance of financial protection from critical illnesses.

Expense tracking is essential to avoid exceeding earnings, especially with credit cards. Edna stresses the importance of investing early and wisely, noting AIA Philippines' commitment to Life Planner training for enhanced customer service. Researching and diversifying investments are emphasized to minimize risks.

The "get-rich-quick" mindset is discouraged, with Edna promoting the financial pyramid concept—prioritizing life and critical illness insurance as the foundation. This solid base enables gradual wealth-building through savings and investments. She urges individuals to consult licensed Life Planners for expert financial advice, emphasizing AIA Philippines' role in facilitating a meaningful and rewarding business as a Life Planner.