Derek Gosnell
When did you start working for COUNTRY?
I started at Country on April 3, 2006 with six years of insurance experience. A year before I joined COUNTRY as a financial representative, I met with my present agency manager, Drew Cali. I really enjoyed our talk and the opportunity sounded like a perfect fit, but I still wanted to weigh my options and look around a little. I interviewed with all of the big insurance companies, and COUNTRY still felt like the best fit. I decided to make the move and haven’t looked back since!
What do you love most about this career?
The opportunity to own my own business was what initially attracted me to this career. In the world we live in today, I wanted to make sure that I had control over my employment status … as well as my income. At COUNTRY, the harder I work – the bigger my income! The recognition I get for my hard work (awards and first-class travel) isn’t too shabby, either.
Obviously the perks of this opportunity are fantastic … but I would never claim that it is an easy career. You have to be prepared to ride a rollercoaster at times – some months you are a rock star, and other months … not so much. That being said, it has honestly been the best six years of my life financially. Being able to attend all of my children’s activities is priceless as well (and completely worth the hard work!)
What do you love most about COUNTRY?
The people. Everyone I’ve worked with at COUNTRY has been down-to-earth and eager to help. One great example is my agency manager. He’s the best person I’ve ever worked for. It is obvious that he genuinely cares about his team and wants to see all of us succeed. The good times are easy to deal with, but when you struggle – there is always someone around to help. My manager has always been there and I appreciate everything he does for me and the rest of the financial representatives I work with.
Any advice for new financial representatives?
Work hard and work smart. Schedule your family time first – then work around it. Make sure you always ask for help. You will need it more than you think.
