Don't be fooled: A Challenging Start for New Agents - Financial Advisor New York Life Employee Review

1.0
30 Apr 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

New York Life presents itself as a prestigious AAA firm with a long-standing history. However, my experience revealed several challenges that prospective agents should be aware of.

Cons

Training and Support: The training program is often led by individuals who lack substantial industry experience. This gap becomes evident when delving into the intricacies of the insurance contracts, which are complex and heavily optimized to favor the company. Without a deep understanding of these products, new agents may find themselves ill-equipped to serve clients effectively.​ Compensation Structure: The compensation is 100% commission-based, with no guaranteed salary. While a training allowance is mentioned, it's contingent upon meeting specific sales targets, which can be daunting for newcomers. This structure can lead to financial instability, especially when starting out .​ Glassdoor Client Acquisition Pressure: There's a strong emphasis on leveraging personal networks for initial sales. Agents are encouraged to approach friends and family, which can strain personal relationships and potentially harm one's reputation if the products sold don't align with clients' best interests.​ High Turnover Rate: The demanding nature of the role, combined with limited support and the pressure to meet sales quotas, contributes to a high turnover rate among new agents. This environment can be challenging for those seeking long-term career stability.

avatar
New York Life Response
1y
Thank you for your response. A successful career as an agent requires dedication and commitment and, for many, the financial and professional rewards are worth it. We understand that starting out in this career is not always easy. That’s why we offer new agents continuous training and support, to give them the advantages they need to succeed. We take your concerns seriously and would like further information. We encourage you to email us at helpusimprove@newyorklife.com if you would like to share specific details about your experience.

Explore other reviews about New York Life

5.0
3 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great brand with high levels of training and support. Good work-life balance and supportive managers who don't micromanage. Benefits include good pay, decent PTO, tuition reimbursement, bonuses. Agents enjoy full autonomy over their schedule, the ability to work with clients they choose, and untapped commission potential. Training is strong, with clear advancement paths toward financial advisor and management roles.

Cons

Commission-only structure. Agents must generate their own leads with no real structure to daily activities.

5.0
9 Oct 2015
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Right out of college, I had an opportunity with the New York Life. Being young I felt that I was at a disadvantage but I worked hard, I was relentless, and ambitious. My first full year, I was able to make a six-figure income. It wasn't easy but is medical school easy? Is law school easy? The training and development at New York Life was unmatched. I knew nothing about the Insurance and Financial Services industry until I was given an opportunity at New York Life and the training was exceptional and has led me to the success I have today.

Cons

You have to work hard, be relentless, entrepreneurial, invest a lot of time and effort into the business and above all, expect a higher standard of living and strive towards that goal every single day.

251
avatar
New York Life Response
9y
Thanks for taking the time to share your feedback – we appreciate it. As you say, a successful career as an agent requires dedication and commitment. For many, including you, the professional rewards are worth it. But we do understand that starting out in this career is not always easy. That’s why we offer new agents continuous training and support, to give them the advantages they need to succeed.
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All