First Investors

Deena Wilson > First Investors Registered Representative

I graduated from Hampton University in Virginia in May 2003 with a bachelor's degree in Business Management. I was a full-time student and a full-time athlete, a combination that forced me to learn time management. After graduation, I moved to San Diego for nine months, where I was an associate manager at a car rental agency. I quickly learned that the nine-to-five corporate life wasn't for me. I wanted flexibility in my schedule, I wanted to work one-on-one with people and I wanted to earn a substantial income.

In March 2004 I moved back to New York and had five interviews lined up; First Investors was the first. After meeting with Michael Vela, I realized that First Investors was exactly what I was looking for. Michael challenged me and told me that this business was "simple, but not easy." Being a competitive person, I decided that I would be successful at First Investors and that I would devote myself to enhancing the lives of my clients. The ability to control my own income excited me and motivated me to be the best. It also prevented me from becoming complacent. In fact, Michael is probably tired of hearing me say, "I'm not satisfied and I want more." As soon as I accomplish one goal, I'm immediately working on the next.

In developing my business, I quickly learned that there are ups and downs. I committed myself to being consistent.

I truly believe in the "building block" approach, because it makes perfect sense. When you are passionate about your business, you don't have to convince your clients; they can see it intuitively. I also learned that follow-up and communication skills are very important. You have to treat clients as if they are your family and show them that you care.

I am grateful for all of the people in the Rockland office, who have supported me since day one. I've always been a team player and there's a great sense of "team" in Rockland. In our office, we always create a sense of friendly competition, which I love. I always try to motivate my peers when they're in a slump, just as they always keep me striving to be the best.

Michael Vela always tells us: "Keep working ‘til the end, do everything physically possible, and then let the chips fall where they may." I never want to lose, so I always work a little bit harder. I feel that you shouldn't spend your life worrying about how much better other people are doing. Instead, you should spend your time trying to reach your full potential.

I've found that it's O.K. to ask for help; but remember that only you are responsible for your life and your future. So continue to work hard and work smart, and only look back if that's the direction in which you want to go. I made a decision when I joined First Investors to work hard, exceed my goals and to make a difference in people's lives. Joining First Investors was one of the best decisions I ever made and I truly feel blessed.

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First Investors has been serving the financial needs of its clients since 1930. Through the personalized service of financial services representatives located in a national network of offices, the Company offers a range of products and services, including mutual funds, annuities and life insurance.

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