AMERICAN INCOME LIFE INSURANCE- SCAM OR NOT?
Photo by: Fábio Pinheiro
Lots of rumors circulating around the net regarding American Life Insurance. Many ex-employees do not seem to be particularly happy with their experience with the company.
The company has a lot working FOR it, though:
1. It has been rated A+ for financial strength and credit quality by AM Best (recog. by US Securities and Exchange Commission).
2. It is a sister-concern of TorchMark Corporation, owners of the well-known brand name, TMK.
3. Have been successfully in business for more than 50 years.
So, what’s wrong?
It may be seen by some people as a scam in the sense that it is more of an MLM company than your regular insurance company. Perhaps, this fact has not been communicated outside properly.
The company offers jobs as agents who are expected to sell their insurance policies. Payments for this is based on commission. People join expecting to work in a regular job and anticipate, at the end of the month, to get to carry home a fixed income. They realize later than sooner that this is not actually the case. Turns out to be something they may not have bargained for when joining the company.
Secondly, being based on the MLM business model, an agent really starts making some money when he/she has other agents productively working under him/her.
Failure to make money leads to disenchantment and suspicions about the company. The company gets a bad image when the disgruntled ex-agents start circulating their experience with the company, negatively.
This seems to be a case of poor PR on the part of the company. They can save themselves such trouble by explicitly stating to agents how they can expect to be paid.
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February 14th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
I WAS RECENTLY HIRED ON, STUDIED HARD AND
GOT MY INSURANCE LICENSE. BUT, I STARTED TO
THINK, EVERYONE THEY INTERVIEW AND ITS ALWAYS A LARGE GROUP, THE COMPANY HIRES.
I SENT MY FRIEND TO CHECK IT OUT AND THEY
HIRED HER. SHE IS THE ONE WHO SAID SOMETHING IS WRONG. I ALSO, WHEN HIRED HAD
TO PURCHASE AIL’S SOFTWARE FOR $300.00. ANY
WAY THAT I CAN GET A REFUND??
February 18th, 2008 at 10:43 am
It is more usual, that company fails in communication with customers. But also agents are important and not every company realises their significance. Good team is essential when trying to get long lasting relation with client. I always try to have the best people by my side in my term life insurance team. And that is rule on all stages - from top managment to agents…
February 28th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
The company is not exactly a scam per se, but anyone with experience with AIL will tell anyone not to associate with this company in any way.
All recruits know very well they are paid only on their production before signing up-it’s just that the recruiters lie about the average income that you will earn working there-that is how they obtain hires and that is why 98% of agents quit within 6 months. Income projections are exagerrated upwards of 200%-300% to prospective agents.
Further, the entire company is known for its unscrupulous conduct from the top executives down to the bottom.
March 25th, 2008 at 5:20 am
This company is a scam per se, because it’s simply another dressed up ponzi scheme, yea, there are actual sales, but don’t forget how little they care about their end customers! That means they only care about making you sell, makeing people “under” you to sell, the compensation structure is totally a ponzi scheme, just like social security, but why is it as legal as social security? cause my friend the definition of a scam means total exploition and crooking of money, while actual sales does happen in this company, but it’s ponzi sheme sale, the only charecteristics and resulting outcome of this regime is TONS OF LOSERS, LITTLE winners, so decide for yourself, they are not a insurance company, only a reseller of existing legalized insurance policies, the whole business mainly works like a cash flow processing department in an investment bank, and exploit all its profit from (no matter if it is) their contracters or employees by this ponzi scheme compensation system. well… boy, this f***in country is really hard on everybody… f**k united states of s**t!
April 30th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
They wanted $700 from me to start working there… I dun’think so.. No REAL job makes you PAY to work for them!
May 2nd, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Thanks for the information, i am glad i did a bit of research before calling these people to set up an interview
May 3rd, 2008 at 2:26 pm
I am also glad that I did not call these people because I new something about this was wrong, and I am glad I verify it. Thanks for the heads up.
May 4th, 2008 at 12:48 am
AIL is a scam…
They have 4 year old leads…
They want to seduce you with big lies and the woman who I “interviewed” with was obviously an actractive actress who was there to seduce men to take the bait…
May 10th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
I almost took the job. After their series of interviews and working through the chain of command, they made it seem as if you were really the best candidate and then you show up for your first day and the place is once again packed with people, either waiting to interview or new hires. Can their really be that many leads to feed all of these people. Or is this why they want close to $700 to train you ect. Anyway glad I finaly wised up and didn’t invest 700 for a 50 dollar license. Good luck to them and to their cusomters. Think I will stay away from selling insurance.
May 20th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
thankyou i am glad that i did e research little bit about the company, i was gone go for interwie thanks good i check this website. I can belived they make you pay 700 dallars to started working, i will just look somewhere else in my accounting.
May 22nd, 2008 at 2:41 pm
I thought something seemed out of place. The interviews go just everyone says,although I new something seemed fishing. Over 600 reports of these people scamming people out of there hard earned money, thanks for the tip.
May 24th, 2008 at 1:04 am
@ T.G.
You’re so right!
@ charisse, BJ, Mida, tb…
You are most welcome…This is what motivates us!
Thanks for paying a visit and taking the time out to comment!
June 3rd, 2008 at 11:06 pm
Thanks for all information! I already gave the phone number to call!
But still i am happy, Now i will not schedule my interview!
June 4th, 2008 at 10:56 am
No one is taking your money folks, agencies do not make a single dollar off new recruits. That money you need up front is for LICENSING. Look into it, call your state insurance dept to find out the cost of school, testing, fingerprints and the actual license. The amounts will be accurate. Since when do agents make money only when they recruit, that is an absolute blatant lie, At my agency we have many happy career producers who want no part of management and make an extremely comfortable living, check out Spotlight on the AIL website http://www.ailife.com. And Bob said we are resellers of existing policies?? What?? another lie. 4 year old leads at an agency would be the exception and not the rule. In house PR which PROVIDES leads to the agents at NO-COST are pretty darn successful at AIL. Most leads at my agency were returned after the 1st of the year. This place is for the brightest, most energetic, most ambitious people. The complainers are the same people who will never earn more than 100K. 4.7% of America earns over 100K. AIL gives regular Joe’s an opportunity to join that elite group. Good luck to all
June 5th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
You know, I’ve got to agree with moby on this. Any company in any industry will have some employees in love with the company and some employees who despise the company. Usually the ones who despise the company are the ones who just could “cut the mustard” so to speak, and find it justifying to blame the company for THEIR problems. I know two AIL employees. One absolutely loves what he does. He works hard at it also. He is always on time for his appoinments, always has his professional face on, and analyzes his words, technique, and approach in order to discover areas of needed improvement. This guy brings in roughly $150,000/year. The other AIL agent I know is completely opposite compared to the first. He pretty much goes through the motions, he’s lazy, he’ll even admit it to you! This guy makes a “barely getting by” income from AIL. Somehow, although this guy can admit to you that he is lazy, it hasn’t crossed his mind yet that his work ethic might in fact be the problem, not the company. What I would suggest, if you are looking into getting into REAL sales, you are going to have to realize that no one is responsible for your problems but you. AIL presents the opportunity to either make yourself or break yourself just like any other commission based career. Just because you didn’t have courage to take control and accountability of your own financial future, does not make the company a “SCAM”. Take an objective look at the situation, do you really deserve the kind of income AIL informed you what possible with them? Really? How hard are you willing to work for it? Oh, 40 hours a week? Obviously this wasn’t the right career move for you. You are still in dream land where you can amke a six figure income for doing nothing. How’s that working out for you?
June 6th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Well, if they are asking me for money then that’s BS. Even being a bus driver, the company pays for your training. I tried that route and somehow one of the old fat hags didn’t like a young attractive fit female and I was told I past everything but I’m just not to “serious” enough. WTF? I should not be putting out money. I thought it was odd that I call some toll free number and it felt like cattle call to give some woman my info.
June 6th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
you out of 2 out of 16 people are saying the same thing it seems that this company need to be reported and look into more I WILL NOT CALL THIS PLACE i have a friend that works in the the same field and i ask him about this and he says that he says that they are a scam hands down DON’T bye into there crap he says to me lol so i am not anyone reading this STAY AWAY
June 9th, 2008 at 7:34 am
Wow, I am glad as well that I checked them out. I thought it was odd to receive a call from someone at 8pm on Sunday. When I asked directly if the position was a sales job, the recruiter did not answer the question. she simply stated she did not know but that I would learn more when I attend the meeting. She had very very little information to provide- which is always a clue. Any reputable company will provide the basic information about the job upfront. If not - you know something isn’t right. Thanks for letting me know as I am a former subprime employee looking for a new position and don’t have gas to waste nor $700.
June 11th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Oh gosh, I am so happy I came on here to find more out about the company. I actaully just got a call from this lady and she made a interview for me. I was a little taken off when I asked her if I had to pay anything and she didnt say anything to me, all she said was we will talk about it when you come in. What made me ask? Well I am orginally from California I moved here to Minnesota and back home I kind of was looking for a job like this and they wanted me to put money down before I started making money, and it didnt make sense to me. I am obviously looking for a job because I dont have money. Thank you guys for this information.
June 11th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
I sent in a reply to a craigslist posting and someone called me 5 minutes later asking me to come in for an interview to work as a recruiter. I have worked as a recruiter before so i went. When i went for the interview they hired me right there no questions asked. I never signed any papers of employment and when I decided to leave they SAID they would send my paycheck……… well folks it’s been over a month and no paycheck. I have started buggin them about it so we will see what happens. I know the guy that got hired with me at the same time and he hasn’t been paid either..
IT’S A SCAM and A HORRIBLE COMPANY!!!!!
June 11th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Confirmed! Another Satisfied Non-employee. Hey guys, another piece of info for those in a secure job looking to do better, but might be limited in your current company. I went to the first interview today and they said they would call me between 2 and 3pm. They did and of course it is a FULL COMMISSION job, not a $50K-$80K salary like they had mentioned to me in the beginning.
June 12th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
You guys have no clue do you, what do you think the $700 goes towards? (and the cost varies state-by-state) Do you think any professional doesn’t have to pay for their license? Nurses? Doctors? Real estate agents? They all have to pay for the preperation for the state exam. The insurance school in most states/provinces is not cheap. Plus books and supplies, the online course if there is one, background checks, the testing facility, etc. Whoever said that it costs only $50 to get their license doesn’t have a clue what they are talking about.
And about this MLM thing…their PR dept builds relationships with unions and associatons and when these groups(teamsters, firefighters, electrical workers, police unions) decide to work with AIL, there is a mailing sent to all members of the group with a response card. The one’s that want their benefits and more info send these response cards back and the sales associates only contact those members. Plus they contact policy owners and referrals.
Can someone PLEASE PLEASE explain to me how this marketing structure falls under MLM? This is Niche Market Marketing, not Multi-level-marketing.
Not all, but too many people on these forums don’t have a clue what they are talking about. Be careful about slandering a company that is owned and supported by a Fortune 500(better yet, Forbes Platinum 400 company) when you don’t have all the facts. And about these disgruntled ex-employees…maybe there’s a reason why SOME of them are not there anymore. Remember, many people leave their employer on bad terms. Of course they are disgruntled!!
And about the people who came in for interviews and didn’t get hired, or decided not to join…or even if you never showed up for the interview…..well, I guess you’ll never know for sure.
June 12th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
I went over there for my first interview 3 days ago and although i had very limited experience was told that i was qualified and the salary they said i would make, made me very suspecious,they offered a second interview,don’t want to waste my time..
June 17th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
This is an excerpt taken from a blog I found online about one guys interview process. It was an excellent blog - I would encourage all to read it if you are thinking about interviewing:
http://www.blog.jonathanharrington.com/2003/04/interviews-with-american-income.html
I expanded my Google search for information on Torchmark and AIL by throwing in the keywords lawsuit, fraud, and scam. I found that adding these terms returned a lot of hits. I reviewed dozens of the hits to find all of the following issues. Consumer groups note that the primary product offered by AIL, commonly known as burial insurance, is itself largely a scam. Customers pay monthly premiums over the years that soon outweigh the benefit of the policy. They would be better served by some simple financial planning or a good home economics class. The company founder has ties to Hillary Clinton with regards to the Hubbles and Whitewater. The company is under investigation in Florida for racially biased policy pricing. The largest agency in California is being investigated for systemic fraud and corruption. Veteran and retired agents get screwed out of their vested renewals because the company forces new agents to sell new, replacement policies to existing customers (a sales source never mentioned in any of my meetings thus far). The final straw for me was the list off complaints on the Rip-off Report. Everything that these strangers from other parts of the country said were right in line with my experiences so far.
(I am not affiliated with the writer of this blog and really don’t have permission to put it here, but I thought his information was incredibly helpful and he probably won’t mind it being shared. If so, sorry)
June 18th, 2008 at 3:01 am
@ sbh…
Thank You for your valuable comment!
Best Wishes!
June 18th, 2008 at 9:39 am
Mike,
TMK is NOT and NEVER WAS a Fortune 500 company. Forbes honored Torchmark as a platinum 400 in 2003 ONLY. That doesnt mean they are a Fortune 500 company or are in anyway now supported by Forbes-did you just listen to some bozo at your agency and took it as fact without checking? Ladies and gentlemen: I give you a prime example of AIL leadership-lying.
AIL is a multi level marketing company because their recruiting incentive either equates or outweighs its sales incentive. It has unsalaried sales people who sell a product for the parent company while turning over percentages of the commission upwards. The incentive to join is also that you will receive commission from those you recruit (while its not required at AIL, it is encouraged). It is not a pyramid because its possible to jump the income stream of who recruited you and AIL does not require recruits to purchase its product. I never understood why AIL strongly denies being MLM-just admit it? It is legal, ya know.
AIL also does make money by charging sign-up fees. You can claim they didn’t at your agency, but it happens at most. Licensing and course fees are obviously required-can’t argue that.
Most of the leads are sour. I used 8 year old leads often. You get mostly cold calling Globe leads and a few decent ones-but generally they suck-it is up to you, not your lead, to cement any sale.
Many unions are distancing themselves from AIL. Police are called to hotels on roadtrips and also when people get scared and suspiciouswhen the same person drives around their neighborhood 10 hours straight. Unions complain all the time about this company, many union heads tell their members not to let AIL in their door.
I worked for this company for a couple months, wrote over $10,000 ALP my first full month and realized that was still not a lot of money after absorbing the ludicrous expenses associated with making sales, not to mention I was surrounded by liars. I took my $1k bonus and quit the next day. This is NOT a good opportunity for ANYONE, no matter what your situation.
Average income of AIL agent: Below $25k after working 60plus hour weeks/weekend and nights. How did I get that? Take the last quarter filed with the SEC and divide by the # of agents (probably around 2200 or so right now). Look it up yourself online, just don’t take the word of anyone working for AIL-their income statements are lies.
Caveat: Do not listen to anyone who works for this company, such as Mike. They are brainwashed and perpetuate falsehoods told to them by their masters.
June 19th, 2008 at 9:32 am
Is all this stuff about AIL true? Are they really a scam? An agent from their
company emailed me after seeing my resume on Monster.com. I thought it seemed strange that they would contact someone who does clerical work and they’re talking about being a sales associate. Thanks to everyone who found out the truth about them!
June 25th, 2008 at 8:53 am
I was about to drive 62 miles roundtrip at $5/gallon here in Chicago to interview for a benefit rep position. However, I asked the recruiter yeterday a very simple question. Is this a salaried or a commission position or a combination. The recruiter says I would have to ask the person interviewing me. She didn’t have that information. Please, so I rescheduled for today. Did some research and found this site as well. I am not going. Thank you all for your input.
June 25th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
The problem with companies like this is that they are ashamed of what they do. I don’t know anything about them, but you can NEVER hide or mislead folks, which it appears that this company does.
I own an insurance agency (in a suburb of St.Louis) and when I am looking for life insurance reps. I am brutally honest with them, YES, you can make a great income…but it only comes with hard work. I am upfront about the pay structure, because quite frankly I don’t want the canidate to waste my time. It frustrates me when some companies hinder the reputation of my chosen industry.
June 25th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Where to begin? I can’t possibly remember all the lies about how much money you can make or how you make your own schedule.
I was working 7 days a week making endless harassing phone calls and driving around the city (gas was 2.50 at the time). Not only did I not make my own schedule, my boss was calling me at 10pm and 8am to see what I sold and when I would be in.
PLEASE make the best decision of your life and do not fall for their lies!!! Everything I read here is true and is just like reliving a nightmare.
June 25th, 2008 at 5:39 pm
what kind of job is that i have an interview soon and i’m not about to pay anyone nothing to start a JOB THANKS FOR THE HEADS UP.
June 27th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Thanks soo much for the heads up everyone!
June 30th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Jeesh, how would a career legal secretary be “a perfect fit” for this job? That’s what I was told by a tentative, very youthful-sounding woman who cold-called me today. I can’t imagine getting a cold call from anyone NOT looking for a legal secretary based on my resume, so I did a little online research and ended up here. Thank you, all, for an invaluable public service. I too would have driven approx. 90 min. round trip only to be scammed.
June 30th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
what the heck I have an appointment next week, I thought it was fairly odd when the lady called me and I told her I had no experience in fact my resume says nothing about that type of experience and she said that was ok. Then I asked her how much would I be paid and the lady told me that it would depend and that she really couldn’t say. Now after reading all these responses Im feeling a little funny about all of this.
June 30th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
all these complaints about the company seem to be from ex-employees or people that interviewed with the company. If it’s such a scam, why are there no complaints from the policy holders or union members? Sounds like to me all you people that are negative, why don’t you look at yourself and ask if there was any accountability on your part rather than something was wrong with the company or system. Sales is not for everyone and certainly not selling insurance, most of the insurance companies that I know are commission base and do not provide leads. No doubt, income potential is great in the insurance industry but it’s not easy. I would think that it’s only common sense that if you want to make a lot of money, you have to work hard for it. Nothing comes free! I wouldn’t mind doing more research on the company but I wouldn’t take advise from ex-employees. Check out the BBB or find complaints from customers instead of listening to all these complainers that are probably still looking for a job. Good luck!
July 2nd, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Hey BJ:
You must be an uneducated employee who is unqualified to do anything else except memorize a sales script and spit it out over and over again. If you have something a company wants (usually your brain) they will pay you for it, quite the opposite of AIL. See the difference? Maybe not since you seem to be under the control of the Sunshine Carpet Cleaners
Have fun making your cold calls and driving around aimlessly!
July 2nd, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Thanks for all the useful information. I found the whole thing kind of funny, ended up here and saved myself alot of trouble. Thanks.
July 3rd, 2008 at 8:31 pm
Guys I work at AIL as a producer. I make a solid income, say like 60 a year. I can sell well, but I am very unconfortable with the lies we are trained to tell. “It’ll only take 20 minutes”. “I just need to witness your signature”. “I’ll allow you to pass these union benefits on to a non-union member”. There is no integrity and you make $$ by decieving union members. I already have another job lined up. And then they tell you if someone cancels a policy, they just take the $$ back from your “bucket”. Well they actually just deduct it out of your next check. And if you try management, you have to constantly train people that are just going to quit. But ultimately the worst is lying to union members and then telling them in the house that if they don’t buy it today, then we can’t come back for 3 years. These scripts are actually printed lies. Well I could go on and on but I’m done for now
July 5th, 2008 at 2:32 am
Unlike most of you, I’m not interested in getting into a pissing contest or to see who can personally insult another person or their comments.
I live by a simple creed: “There is nothing wrong with earning a steady pay cheque, unless it directly interferes with your ability to earn what you are truly worth.”
Personally I work for London Life, an affiliate of Great West Life Insurance. I have been with them for over ten years and am a member of the “Million Dollar Round Table,” if anyone here knows what that is. Prior to that I had a career in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Let me tell you something, sure in my case the company paid for my licensing upfront so I didn’t have to, but then garnished my advance until I had repaid them.
So let me ask you, how is paying for a professional designation any different, regardless of the profession? Do you think Century 21 pays the $5,000 fees for individuals to obtain their license before they are allowed to start earning their commissioned income? When was the last time you heard of an Accounting firm footing the bill for a student to get their professional designation; or an investment house paying for a trader to get his license.
The simple fact is that commission based sales is not for everyone, accept that and respect those that can make a living that way. If it isn’t for you, move on and I wish you all the best.
The industry average for sales in the Life insurance industry is 70 phone calls to one sale. Allow me to explain:
It typically takes 10 phone calls to arrange one appointment.
It typically takes 7 appointments to secure one sale
Ergo, you need to make, on average 70 phone calls to ensure one sale. Obviously this is different if you are talented enough and have the reputation, to secure referrals from your clients.
I have seen some people on this page actually complain that they had to work “old” leads. I have also heard that the leads are actually families that are responding to a letter that was sent out. Do you know how many of my colleagues, myself included, would jump at the opportunity to only contact people that have expressed an interest in hearing about my products??? I don’t care who you are, or what industry you are in – if you truly work in sales you will understand how golden that is!
Bob, you seem to have a passionate case for disliking this company. I’m curious, aside from the fact you temporarily worked for AIL, what is your professional background? Is it in sales?
I have to comment on this one section. Bob, you wrote, and I quote: “It has unsalaried sales people who sell a product for the parent company while turning over percentages of the commission upwards.” How is what you say any different from the thousands of insurance brokers that solicit for numerous companies at the same time?
So how is this company any different? For those of you that are actually speaking from a sales background, do you not receive a bonus for reaching your sales target for the month, quarter or year? Do you not think your sales manager gets a larger portion of his annual remuneration based on the performance of the team?
Does anyone else on this sight have any resume experience with commissioned income or in sales?
I’m curious only because you refer to this insurance company as being MTM and justify it by saying that the manager earns money off of the representative – doesn’t that happen with every company? Where do the salaries and incentives come from to pay managers and executives if not from the front-line sales force?
Bob, you claim to be an authority on the company, so please correct me if I’m misled on this. Is not the company broken into State General Agencies; each running with relative autonomy from each other and their parent company namely AIL? So I guess the real question is this:
Is your negative energy being correctly directed at the parent company or should it actually be directed as a specific SGA?
Secondly, I put this out to all of you; the primary grievance seems to be with regards to the “registration” or “administrative” fee. Please permit me to field two general questions.
1) Have any of you that have complained about the $700.00 actually contacted the actual Course provider or your local Insurance Council to verify the cost being asked of you?
2) Do any of you have a post secondary education? Unless it has changed in the past fifteen years, all Colleges and Universities charge their students a registrars (administrative) fee for being at the school; a course fee for actually sitting in the classroom with the instructor and expect the student to purchase all of the required reading on top of everything else.
Instead of being so negative in general and towards this one company in particular, you should be grateful that the Insurance industry as a whole is so highly regulated that it required all writing agents to have a professional designation.
And in closing, permit me to offer some valuable advice to any and all that receive a phone call from this company or any insurance company about a possible career. If you are truly interested in learning about a particular insurance company, contact your local Insurance Councils. After all it is the Insurance Counsels that determine if a company will have a license to practice in a particular State or Province.
Ladies and gentlemen let us be honest for a second. IF you were looking for a doctor or a dentist, would you check the Internet to see if they are any good or would you contact the College of Physicians to see if there were any complaints or legal proceedings against the doctor or dentist in question?
Why, then would you listen to some nay-sayers that apparently have nothing else to do but make derogatory comments about a company that either wasn’t the right fit for them or refused to hire them?
I remain.
July 5th, 2008 at 8:12 am
The Chicago office is a slick production. Lots of bravado and big $$$ talk. I was hired on site and given a binder with the company promo and the sales pitch. I found it ridiculous to knock on somebody’s door, ask them for the names and addresses of their relatives, mooch canned food items, give them shitty AD&D benefits, then try to sell them a policy their never sought to buy.
July 5th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
Spartan;
Sadly and obviously you did not bother to read what I wrote. It is a shame, but not entirely surprising considering the overall degeneration of society.
I’m curious about a passage you wrote, and I quote:
“I found it ridiculous to knock on somebody’s door, ask them for the names and addresses of their relatives, mooch canned food items, give them shitty AD&D benefits, then try to sell them a policy their never sought to buy.”
Correct me if I’m wrong, but did you actually go through the hiring process? I have, out of curiosity, and it was pretty clear the importance of the Union sponsored food bank. I lived in Calgary, AB a few years ago and TELUS (the communications company) went on strike. It was in the newspaper that thanks for the generosity of union members and the coordination of AIL (Altig Agencies.)
That a 5 tonne truck full of food stuffs were delivery to the picket line every two weeks during the three month long strike. Are you aware that most unions only provide $150.00/week strike pay to their members during a strike and that usually only starts after the first week of picketing? Are you also aware that union members have to picket a minimum 16 hours a week in order to be entitled to the $150.00?
I might be wrong, but it seems to me, if I were on strike, that food would come in pretty handy. Wouldn’t you agree, Spartan?
After reading the other entries here, it occurs to me that you are mistaken on the door knocking aspect. From what I have read, and commented on, you are only contacting people that have expressed an interest in hearing about the programs being offered so how are you trying to sell something that they “never sought to buy?”
I’m sure that you are a learned and educated individual, so clearly you are not posting for the sake of enflaming the situation more. What level of experience do you have in sales or the insurance industry as a whole?
I’m curious because the percentage of people that actively seek out life insurance (except when the banks unlawfully force it on unsuspecting mortgage applicants) in less than 5% of everyone who has a policy. Forgive me, but I’m confused with your last comment.
Also, you use a derogatory comment to describe AIL’s AD&D coverage. What is your experience with AD&D policies? Are you aware that less than 3% of all AD&D policies make a claim? But isn’t the point that every little bit helps a family in need?
Lastly, and most incredulously, do you have no personal comprehension of how the industry works?? IT is ALL about collecting referrals – they are GOLD!! If you were to go to any insurance company they are going to want a detailed list of at least 100 people that you personally know, because they are the first 100 people that you are going to “try to sell them a policy their never sought to buy.”
After you have done that, your survival in the industry will either be the phone book or your ability to collect referrals from the prospects and Clients that you have. Have you never heard of the term, book of business???
Again, I respect that people might have a negative feeling about this company in particular; but at least speak form the position of knowledge and not simply to be heard and to try and inflame this forum further.
Please remember and respect, that simply because this industry or company is not for you doesn’t mean that it might not be perfect for someone else. This world would come to a grinding halt, in a heartbeat, if there were no professional sales people. I say professional, they are NOT the people that can sell the proverbial “ice to the Inuit.” They are people that take their career and profession seriously and strive to continually better themselves and do what is best for their Clients.
I remain.
July 10th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Thanks! I cancelled my interview I don’t need to pay any company any money to work for them!! My skills and experience will get me they type of postion I deserve.
July 11th, 2008 at 6:48 am
It’s pretty obvious - if London Life were an an MDRT member, he wouldn’t be wasting his time here defending an obviously deadbeat company like AIL. He seems like a real high-brow A.H.
July 11th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Thanks for all the info. Now I dont have to waste my time with the interviews.
July 13th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
I interviewed last week and thought the opportunity was great.
Things I liked
1. Most real sales people know good warm leads mean hundreds of chances to sell. Other insurance companies make you sell family and friends. Leads are always better then cold calling prospective customers.
2. I have made over 100k a year and I had to work 60 hours a week. Every richer person I know works over 60. The hours they require sound reasonable for the pay.
3. The person who contacted me said the job was a sales position and paid commision only and was I comfortable with that.
4.My interview was very typical for a sales job. All the information they told me matched what my experience told me it would take to make that much money.
Things I didn’t like.
1. Why so many different interviews? It is boring and repetitive.
2. Most sales companies always promise good leads but rarely come thru. It would have been nice to hear how my day would go but all that was said was we would work Monday thru Friday 1-9 and Saturday because that is when people are home.
I thought overall they were very honest and some people who start there will do very well financially but most will fail because they are not real sales people.
July 16th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
I just got my interview today…. I think it could be a good opportunity, but now that I read all this I’m confussed…. They did not ask me to pay for anything, just pay myself for my license, fingerprints and test… They explained very well the comission plan, I think they were honest about everything… I would like to know what someone that’s being working with company have to say….
PLEASE help
July 16th, 2008 at 11:35 pm
Two days in a row there, & all I saw were people streaming
into the office. Receptionist said: “your resume please”
“your resume please” “your resume please” “your resume please”
“your resume please”……
Dozens of different faces I saw in those 2 days.
Here I was sitting with my suit on, black shiny shoes,
thinking I was special, because I was called & called again
for interview. Fool I am. I wised up & left during interview.
WHERE/WHEN was the actual business conducted. Seemed like all
the people in the back were involved in the hiring process. Saw
no business activity in those 2 mornings. How can these employees
live with themselves?
July 17th, 2008 at 2:05 am
It’s strange for me to see all the negativity directed towards AIL. I have a long history of being a commission only sales rep (auto industry, wholesale account executive in the mortgage industry) and none of my previous positions provided me leads, had a set base customer (union members) who have to contact you first (warm leads) and gave me residual income for all the work and hours I put in. In fact, I am struggling financially now because I don’t get residual income and neither one of those industries is financially producing presently.
I don’t know if AIL is the end all be all of insurance companies but I don’t have a negative feeling about it like Bob.
The only money out of my pocket was for the 52 hours of online training, California state test and Live Scan. My particular branch gave me free study guides and instructions on how to pass the test, which I did. The pass/fail rate here is 50% and I saw and spoke to many people at the test who failed and had paid $400-700 for 2-3 of in depth studying. Compare that to what I was told when I interviewed for AFLAC. There I was told I would be paying $400 for an outside training course plus my licensing and live scan. I didn’t pay a total of $400 at AIL.
I have worked for crooks before and the one thing I don’t see with my group is a bunch of crooks. The SGA gets paid more money by helping every one else get money and that is put out there from the beginning.
Concerning the interview process. The first interview was a large group interview of 25-30 people. Out of that group only 4 of us came aboard. I spoke to many that wanted to but were not invited back. I did have a 2nd and 3rd interview and at no time was I asked to pay a $700 fee. They had recruited me for about 9 months and I finally decided to give it a chance since getting a job paying the money I’m used to is very hard in this economic climate.
The leads are real leads. Some of them are a little older, but these are from people WHO HAVE ASKED TO BE CONTACTED and will receive free benefits whether they purchase a policy or not. Believe me I refuse to do any cold calling or door to door solicitation. I have never paid for leads and they are given to you once you prove you are capable of using them productively.
I would also like to make clear that I have never been asked to lie or misrepresent myself, the company, it’s programs or the benefits to any one at any time. I take my reputation seriously and have never had to lie to make a sell. If that is ever the case, then I need to get a better product and/or another career.
If you are looking into the company, please don’t listen to the fanatics that are posting here. Contact the organization that runs insurance in your local area or state and check out the companies reputation.
You should also look at how the company works and see if it’s program fits your personality and work ethic.
I don’t fit PrimeAmerica because my warm market is limited and I don’t enjoy recruiting large amounts of people to work with. No hating on PrimeAmerica, but the system they use does not work for me.
I do like American Income because I have a great niche market (unions), no cold calling, no giving my warm market to a superior to work and make money on. I can just be a Personal Producer and worry about me or I can move into management, get myself an Agency and build a team under my SGA until I become a SGA.
Once again I was in the automobile sales industry for 9 years. The average career for a sales rep in that industry is 30 days. 30 days. Heck, because any new sales man was a threat to our income we would see how quick we could get them to quit. If you were strong enough to stay then we accepted you. That was cut throat.
In AIL all I’ve received is positive motivation, positive reinforcement and assistance. In my first group interview I was told the money is available to make, but it will not be easy. In my second interview I was told I would be working very long hours for the first 90-120 days until I was at a level where I could maintain. I was encouraged to get my license so I could work in the field and make a living. I have nothing bad to say about that.
I went out today with the top producer for a ride along. We had nothing but no shows and reschedules. This doesn’t bother me. I know about the law of averages and how they work. I’ve also seen his checks and bonus checks and the money is real. It just isn’t easy.
I’ve also called leads and set appointments and no one is angry I’m calling. This isn’t a MLM or pyramid. It’s insurance and from my life experiences, very good insurance that gives people a lot of benefits they lack even if they have a large amount of coverage already.
Lastly, I can only speak for the group I work with. Others may not be so good. Find a company and a SGA you will be comfortable with.
Peace, Love and Prosperity.
July 17th, 2008 at 8:01 am
DC and LondonLife (by the way Londonlife, you obviously work for AIL so please stop lying): Do you ever wonder why AIL is the only company with literally thousands and thousands of testimonials alleging this company is either a scam or unscrupulous at best? WHy don’t we see New York Life or MetLife, or AIG or any other company on these websites? ITS JUST AIL-AND FOR A GOOD REASON. Do you really think everyone who left is a failure who wasn’t cut out for sales? Please think rationally here. You look like fools defending this company. And I don’t have a “negative” attitude-I have a “realist” attitude about what happens at AIL. I’m just trying to save people from wasting time.
July 17th, 2008 at 8:11 am
Im sorry just one more thing: if you want to talk about law of averages here is a law I learned: the average worth of each vehicle in all of AILs parking lots is probably less than $1.5k. Yes, anyone with AIL drives a junker, with maybe an exception here or there. Further, our regional general agents shared a crumby apartment together; one drove an old saturn and the other a mid 90s Ford Escort…these were our REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS! THey had been with the company for years and that pretty much sums up their financial condition! I am not kidding here-just that one fact pretty much tells the story of AIL: Salesmen who put on a big show and cannot admit they are broke!
July 19th, 2008 at 12:07 am
Before all of you go-getters embark on your six figure opportunity, ask youselves one question. Did you even know that AIL existed before they called you for an interview?
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Hey everyone, I live in Michigan and just interviewed today. Everyone seemed very professional. I did see some other people coming in to interview, probably at least 12. They did invite me for a 3rd interview this Friday, although I didn’t realize I had done the second interview already. They did say it was entirely commission and I would be driving my own vehicle, no cold calling, 50-70k for the first year after a 45 day training period. They told me I would have to pay $200 for the class to get licensed and $100 for the test.
After reading all of this I am very nervous and confused as to where to go from here. I thought this was a good opportunity but now I’m not so sure. Does anyone have any more info on this that works or has worked there that maybe didn’t have a horrible experience?
July 24th, 2008 at 12:30 am
Well I just went in for my interview yesterday. To be honest I wish I researched more than their website. I guess I was a day late. Well, at the current moment I am a recently finished grad student with a Masters (4.0 gpa)and a business degree(3.91 gpa). I completed both of those in 5 years and was contacted by this company who was more than excited to get ahold of me. They told me that they were hiring and I asked for what position they said Sales. I said no thank you and they said they were hiring for Manager of Sales Force as well. After hearing that, I agreed to set up an interview. Well, I drove and hour and a half, changed my work schedule thinking this could be the right job and when I went in there, there were 4 other people there with me. I went in for the interview and in 2 mins I was told the interview was over. The interview began when the male interviewer asked be about myself. I said my hard work speaks for itself in regards to school. Then, he asked what I wanted to do with my life I said management or possibly HR. He smartly remarked most people that apply here know exactly what they want out of life. He then asked what do I not want to do? I answered SALES and after that, he ended the interview. I was confused. I asked “why?” Isn’t my interview for management? He told me no, its for sales. He said that he was sorry for the mix up and he would inform his HR of the problem. I called an hour later and the company said it was my fault I misinterpreted the interview opportunity. It was a management trainee position where you start in sales…. BS (SALES) Wow, not what I heard on the phone a week ago. Well, 110 miles of gas wasted to be lied to and these people say we are not motivated. I’m not motivated enough to be unethical.
SORRY THE HONEST REASON I DON’T WANT TO DO SALES IS BECAUSE I DON’T WANT TO LIE AND SCUMBAG PEOPLE JUST TO MAKE MONEY. I FEEL IT IS WRONG. I WOULD BE BAD AT SALES BECAUSE I WOULD TELL THE TRUTH. REMEMBER, DO ON TO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD WANT DONE ON TO YOU. I KNOW I WOULDN’T WANT LIED TO AND TRICKED SO I WON’T DO IT TO OTHER PEOPLE.
The sales pitch is shady, so if you are motivated to be shady and a liar by all means go ahead and do it.
Don’t ever say I am lazy, you AI ******** or that you are more motivated. Get your masters and work hard at school while you have a million distractions going on then you tell me what motivated is.
It all about ethics. I have it, you don’t.
July 25th, 2008 at 2:17 am
It sounds like most of you are just whinners. You want everything handed to you.
July 26th, 2008 at 7:51 am
“Here at AIL you can have a six figure income”
Oh, by the way….we need an agency fee of $50.00 per week from you.
Oh, by the way….after 6 months all of your leads should be self generated.
Oh, by the way….you are an independent contractor but you have to work 60 hours per week.
Oh, by the way….most of your appointments will have seen a different AIL agent within the last two weeks
Oh, by the way….those leads we promised to be near your home are a little further away, but thats okay…you’re making so much what’s a few fill ups at $4.50 per gallon.
Oh by the way…if you don’t surrender your life to AIL, you’re a lazy loser!
AIL is a legal MLM scheme. Maybe they should just tell that to prospective agents right from the start. I think what happens is that most who sign on have made an investment of time and money and give it a go before walking away. As a result those up the AIL food chain benefit.
July 27th, 2008 at 11:55 am
To All;
I am a current rep. whom has been with AIL for almost 3 months.
I don’t feel the company is bad or that the nature of the leads are deceptive. However, what they don’t say when they do say “hard work and long hours” is that this equates to 12-18 hours a day 6 days a week and some on Sunday. They don’t say they encourage you to multi-task while you drive, such as setting appointments. They don’t say to have a better life with there company it is to the exclusion of your current life for years. My SGA is a Russian immigrant who was very successful. But, he worked 100 hours a week.
They don’t say you have to be in constant contact every day of the week. Exceptions are made on Sunday. They don’t say they expect you to knock on the door of an appointment at 11-12 pm at night. They don’t say they schedule your appointments 1 hour apart, which is not enough time to make a presentation, use rebuttals and it there is a sale, do the paper work. They don’t say you may be driving to appointments that are 2-4 hours away from your area before you start your appointments and at the end of you appointments. They don’t say a lot about what is involved with being successful with this company.
After this 3 months of working I am still in the hole to the tune of about $5000 with the expenses of school, license, equipment (GPS), and the enormous expense of gas ($4 + gal). Do I have an option of moving on until I find something more suitable for me, NO!!!!!!!!!
They also don’t tell you the Monday morning meetings are, simply put, a show and tell or horse and pony show for the new recuirts. And, they do the same thing week in and week out. Talk about the sucess stories of the week. It has been my experience that you are in the “Penthouse” or the “Crap” house decided by your sales for that week.
In closing think long and hard about what is really expected and do your homework, I didn’t. I was looking for an opportunity. This is an opportunity if you are willing to give up your life for years to accomplish what you are lead to believe.
July 27th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
PS: I have my very good weeks, average weeks and not so good weeks. I have put $3350 in my account so far this month. But consider the gas and time this is nothing. Oh, the first month I was a ride-along due to licensing issues. So actually I have only been “on my own” 7 weeks. In this time, not including the first month expenses school, etc., I have actually made nothing for the amount of time and effort I have put in. So a word to the wise, look before you leap.
July 27th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
PPS: Whiner I am not. I don’t mind working hard or working 60-65 hours week. I don’t mind having appointments on Saturday, if necessary. I just don’t want to work 70-100 hours a week and work every Saturday and Sunday. I do expect to have some life outside of my work. So, IF you are willing to GIVE YOUR LIFE OVER TO AIL for 5-10 years, you will be successful.
July 28th, 2008 at 8:00 am
AIL_Rep,
I was a former rep for AIL in Framingham, MA about a little less than 5 years ago. I lasted 3 months and averaged $50/week in income. It’s not that the long hours bothered me; it’s the long hours with nothing in return.
Get out now while you still can.
July 29th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Dear Dan,
If you only averaged $50 a week you’re just not cut out for the sales world. I work for AIL as well, and have been with them for 6 months now. I have never dropped below $1500 a week. So, maybe you should go work at McDonalds. Maybe, you should all go take a look at fortune.com, We are listed 602 on the top 1,000 companies.
July 29th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
Thanx to all for this very important info!! I just scheduled an interview and I also found it very odd that they didn’t even tell me what position I was being interviewed for! I’m really glad I took the time to investigate AIL before wasting all that gas to eventually pay for something before it can pay you.
July 30th, 2008 at 10:16 am
It is not a bad company. If you don’t mind giving up your life to make the money, then great. But, no job or career is worth giving up your life for especially when that is what you are working for. The biggest selling point to life insurance is “Dont wait for tomorrow because it may not come or it may come with devastating news”. So if I give up my life today will there be a tomorrow? Who knows? That is what AIL wants, your today, tomorrow and every day after, to accomplish the goals and dreams it sets forth. And so you get it finally after years. What have you missed with your family that you can’t get back? Is it worth it? That is the question to ask. Sign me AIL REP NOW A X-AIL REP AS OF YESTERDAY.
July 30th, 2008 at 11:12 am
AIL agents talk about money so much that it becomes humerous. They make claims that they make “150,000″ or more without actually knowing what they really make. They drive below average cars, share apartments, and generally live a low luster marginal life style. Yes, AIL MGAs, RGAs and the rest of your ilk, go ahead and brag about big money you make, but then explain to people why you don’t own a nice home with that income.
July 30th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
WOW, I was really thinking that this would be a great start for my career, but after reading all of the above statements I’m not quite sure that this is the best path for me. Thanks to all of the individuals that were honest
July 31st, 2008 at 10:58 am
TJ, Maybe you should look up other companies as well. Almost every company out there is slandered all over the internet. If you live your life going by what people write on the internet I can’t imagine where you’ll be in a year.
August 1st, 2008 at 11:51 am
I received a call from AIL this morning, and they wanted to set up an interview time. They implied they were impressed with my resume, which they found via Monster.com. Funny thing is there is absolutely NOTHING on my resume that tells I have even a smidgen of a sales background. I get the feeling they AREN’T genuinely impressed by me, and I don’t want to waste my time interviewing with them.
There are way too many negative comments on this discussion board, and way too few positive ones. It appears to be a remarkable ratio. This is my personal opinion, but if there is THIS many people speaking against AIL, it’s likely that I also won’t be a fan of the company if I go through its interviewing process. So I’m not gonna take the risk of doing the interview at all.
I’m gonna go interview for positions I TRULY WANT, not for positions that MAYBE BUT PROBABLY DON’T TRULY WANT ME.
Yeah, so that’s my advice: Research organizations you truly do admire — organizations that you could picture yourself happily working in. Apply for positions there! Maybe you shouldn’t be wasting your time interviewing with random, obscure companies that call you out of the blue.
August 2nd, 2008 at 1:00 am
You asked to hear from someone who was had experience with AIL, I have been with this company for over 6 years. I cannot imagine doing anything else. I have been blessed to meet some of the most incredible leaders that have seen the value in my skills and have mentors that encouraged me to be more than I ever thought possible. I have peronally met the owner, CEO and leaders of the agencies in this company. There are many leaders and they all have there own way of managing their agencies and only know that my managers have been supportive and wonderful mentors.
I believe passionately that when I help a family with their benefits that I have added value to their lives and helped them protect their families future when they will need these benefits. I am an honest professional and will not hire anyone who is not honest, these people are always found out. When I hire someone they are always told that they will need to work hard to be successful and are give specific details on the hours required to meet their goals. If you want to know why some many people are interviewed is because we need to find qualities in those we hire so when we invest our time and resources that the time will be with someone that can succeed. It does not mean that this person will have experience in this field but have the qualities to meet with people and the ability to learn a difficult profession which as has been mentioned it not easy.
Even though I have been here for a long time before all the great bonuses the company has recently implemented I have never made less than $40,000 per year and recent year much more than that so your figures are not reflective of the majority of this company. AIL is a A+ Superior rated company that does not advertise and has been serving families for over 5 decades.
Is it so hard to believe you can find a company that actually pays you what you are worth and gives you a chance to realize your dreams? This MLM comment is just a scare tactic, I have yet to find a company that does not reward their management with in increase of income based on the success of their department/store. When we build a successful team with quality individuals then we are rewarded and I apprecaite the opporutnity to not only show others how to acheive thier goals but to tell my company I appreciate the opportunity they have given me.
I usually would not take the time to respond to this hate mail about a company that has done so much for my family, but I want all of you that are not interviewing with AIL because someone told you not to or you skeptics that would turn you back onto this incredible opportunity please check out the right reporting agencies. If you are going to do your research go to an unbiased source that actually had accurate data and knows what they are talking about.
Good luck to all of you in finding a company that treats you as well as AIL treats those that dedicate themsleves.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:20 am
I got a visit yesterday from an AIL Agent in Florida. He spent 3 hours at my home on a saturday evening, trying to sell a whole life. I was also looking to buy a whole life policy. I corected him twice and he changed his statements as to what kina return i would get at an investment point of view and also he had to call his senior manager’s 5 times in that so well, i think he was kina new in this field. He admitted that, he learned something new too, because maybe the people who he visited so far did not do their homework or did not know about things in details, and hence did not ask hime so specific questions…
End of story,
He got an immediate lead because my wife is a union member.
He came early once and i was not home, so came this week.
Works on Saturday.
He was in this fied from about 2 months(fresh) and still messed up on some figures.
He had to call his supervisors 5 times and that creates a bad repo on the customer/client.
End of 3 hours, i ask him to come back again as i need time to think. (Think on the figures, think about AIL just because i know New york, AIG and Met life but dont know aobut AIL)
So, as a customer i feel, if you are new, working weekends, getting leads but because new are also messing up on figures or presentation, after 3 hours with one customer if you are late at other meetings, or are not closing the lead then not earning your commision. If you are not ready for this, u are bound to talk negative about the company etc….
It was up to you to forsee, if the deal will be closed or not, up to you to be specific about figures, be focused, understand the need of the client, and then work your way through to close this or move to other lead and not waste your time, which you have spared from your weekend etc… This all comes with experience and a being a hardcore sales guy. Its not a normal life where you get paid for hours you put in, so its not for everybody, and hence many things said above are not from the right people.
The reason i was searching on the Internet about AIL and came across this is, i want to know that how is AIL as a company,(not as a employer or employee) but if i were the policy holder, then at the time of need, do i get what they really promise. I want to know how is AIL for me, (me being) a prospective Policy holder.
So, please tell me about it, I want to call him and sign it if AIL is a good insurance policy company.(eventhough he said, i am not allowed to come again to the same household, i know he will.)
August 3rd, 2008 at 3:40 pm
CJoy;
Your comments are true for the most part. However, it was not my experience to have full disclosure. And, if I was able to see myself netting $40k in my first year and had the funds to carry myself through the months that followed I may have stayed to. But, how many people want to work 80-100 hours a week to the exclusion of their family’s and the stress of not knowing if they have the funds to go on the next week or are they going to be able to pay their bills. Some of us are not natural sales people and have to work at it to be successful. I lived on my credit cards the 3 months I was trying to make this work. Do I believe in the product absolutely. DO I believe I helped family’s absolutely. Do I intend to stay in the field absolutely. Was I properly trained absolutely not!!!!!!!!!! Which is another issue I have to face with an Errors & Omissions issue. So do I feel I personally was giving full disclosure absolutely not. Again, I do not feel AIL is a bad company. Just that not all SGA’s and training are uniform or adequate. And, FULL DISCLOSURE SHOULD BE MANDITORY WITH A SIGNED DISCLOURE FORM TO BE AVAILABE AT INTERVIEW. AND, STOP THE SHOW AND TELL FOR NEW RECRUITS. BE HONEST UP FRONT ABOUT THE FINANCIAL AND PERSONAL INVESTMENT REQUIRED TO ACCOMPLISH THE MONITARY LEVELS STATED IN THE GROUP MEETING. LET THE RECRUIT MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE. AIL DOES NOT DO THAT UNTIL YOU ARE HOOKED AND HAVE MADE AN INVESTMENT EITHER MONITARY OR/AND TIME WISE.
All companies should have a straight forward approach to recruitment and disclosure.
August 5th, 2008 at 10:47 am
B:
As a company, AIL is an A+ Superior rated company by AM Best. Which is the an industry watch dog and ranks companies according to it’s financial strength and such. A+ is one of the best ratings a company can have. Please look up AM Best and similar companies. As for investment, it depends on what your objective is and what kind of return on premium you are looking for. Typically, a whole life policy is based on just that “your whole life” that is how premium’s are computed. If you objective is to get a great return on the monies invested for retirement look very closely at the cash value at the time you would like to take the cash out and surrender the policy. If you are looking to leave your loved one’s money above and beyond your final expenses it is a good way to go as you will never put into it more than you get out. Also depending on your objective look at your paid up options if your age etc. will allow you to accomplish your goal. Whole life as a product is far more guaranteed than any other insurance product out there because it states in the police exactly what is guaranteed.Please investigate the company on financial strength, customer service satisfaction and any other concern you have.
As for the agent who came to your home, it is an example of poor training and pushing agents into the field before they are really ready in the name of meeting production requirements. As for him calling his manager, I would think that trying to get the correct answer and admitting his lack of knowledge would be of some relief as opposed to giving an answer which he did not know or was guessing at. As a person whom has worked for AIL for only a short period and also had training issues, I can understand this persons mistakes. Know this, I am a person who does understand the concept and can do the math but if you are not properly trained in these areas or in the fine points of the particulars of the company it is very easy to find yourself in the situation you mentioned.
What you see here is mostly for the ones whom are being recruited. To advise them to do their research before they make the commitment they are being ask to make to achieve the results they are being lead to believe.
August 5th, 2008 at 10:51 am
B:
See my eariier comment to CJOy for reference to training.
Best Regards.
August 10th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
A lot of rhetoric and opposing perspectives on this site. I do offer one thought…check out your respective state’s department of insurance website and investigate any viable complaints against AIL. In California, the DOI investigated 67 out of more than 2400 filed complaints (2002) from AIL Individual Disability policy holders. Out of the 67 investigated complaints, the DOI issued 44 citations against AIL. The carrier was also ranked 38th out of 50 carriers for their overall complaint ratio. If integrity is important to you, consider the reputation of the company you will be representing, regardless of the industry. In addition, I was also lied to about the job being salaried when an AIL rep called to schedule an interview. It doesn’t take a college education to decipher or qualify the problems here.
August 12th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
I am really glad that I looked into this company. I have an interview scheduled for tomorrow, and I will not be going. I was called and told specifically that this was NOT a sales job. That the job I would be interviewing for would be one of explaining benefit choices to employees of union companies who offered such insurance. First of all, what CEO of ANY company calls on a resume he just happened to find on careerbuilder? For that matter, what President? I should have known it was a scam because I could hear the call center noises in the background-exactly like you hear while on the phone with an annoying telemarketer. I am eternally greatful for all comments on this subject-good or bad. Obviously the bad outweighs the good, but regardless- the ethics behind tricking people into coming in for interviews under false pretenses should be punishable by law. I suspect if they continue these questionable practices we will nolonger need to view this scam website for updates on AIL, their troubles will be aired on the nightly news! I would love to hear about an undercover goverment agent busting this company!
August 13th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
I had very similar experience to those described above. Since my background isn’t business/sales, I did not question the interviewing process. I knew that it was commission based and since I was having trouble finding work in my own field at the time, I gave it a shot. What made me leave was the feeling that I was scamming people that already have difficulty making ends meet. Most of these people that AIL has “leads” on aren’t even aware of what they’re signing up for. These agents are trying to get these people to buy more insurance; giving them horror stories about losing everything. I just couldn’t see myself doing that.
August 13th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
I hate these websites because they feed the misinformed and lazy fat that has drove this country into the ground. But I saw something that I literally laughed out loud when I read it, didn’t even bother reading the replies and came straight to replying myself… So i apologize if this has been repeated already.
Bob was talking about how there are RGA’s drive Ford Escorts and living in appartments, etc. Average worth of AIL cars is $1,500 or something stupid like that.
Ok first of all, when is a person’s worth based on his or her car? Have you ever heard of making your money work for you? I have a significant amount of money in savings, money markets, etc. instead of tied into a stupid $100,000 car that will be worth $60,000 in a year.. If you ask me, aside from anything to do with AIL, I think investing your money and buying the cheapest car your comfortable with is probably a smarter idea than wasting your money on a depreciable asset. So maybe people who work at AIL are smarted than everyone after all?????
Kidding aside, I just looked at a spotlight from a few months back, don’t have the recent one in front of me and saw that $1.6million was paid out in bonuses so far, some individuals up to $25-40K! Man if they drive a Ford Escort they must be loosers!! Or maybe their just smart with their money.
I know agents who make great money who have crappy cars, so what. But to entertain the comment, here’s the lineup of vehicles coming out of my office… Cadillac, mercedes E500, c230, 1 clk 55, cls 55 amg, range supercharged, ml55, 2 a4′s, and an a6. Guess were a bunch of broke a$$ liars.. and about have of those are agents.. and the others have normal cars like tahoes, escapes, hondas, etc. I’d say average is about $45K
I think the problem is that managers are offering the opportunity to make some serious money to too many people who have no work ethic and try to shoot holes in anything thats good for those who try and they get mad and come to stupid websites like this.
Oh well done wasting my time.. Yes its 7pm, yes I’m STILL at work, Yes I make more money that I ever have, Yes I’m going to back to recruiting.. thanks
August 14th, 2008 at 2:37 am
I had my interview today there are several things that makes me question this entire ordeal..
1. Why would they call me and not explain the “opportunity. Someone calls and says they want to setup interview and they have an appointment at 8:30, 10:30 and 1 something.
2. During the initial interview receptionist didn’t discuss the “opportunity”. Had no knowledge of whats going on.
3. During the “presentation” story about a musician, being average “joe”, and not having parents and full of street knowledge without really completing high school seemed to be the theme.
4. Huge stories about how everyone makes ungoddly amount of money within first year.
5. When I saw the presenter in the hallway, he didn’t smile or aknowledged me.
Its just weird. I don’t get positive vibes from the overall situation. By the way, I am not worried about paying for testing and classes, that is handled differently from company to company because every company wants to protect their own investment and if the new hire quits in first few weeks, months, they are out 700.00.
Any thoughts?
August 14th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Thanks for the HEADS UP PEOPLE!!!
I had a phone call today for an interview. I’m glad I did my research before going in!!!
August 14th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Being an SGA of AIL was the most disgusting 10 years in my life. I lied to people to get them to come work for me, I lied to clients to get them to buy insurance, I lied to credit unions, associations, unions, etc. to get their mailing lists. The whole organization is a lie. The Altig‘s, which are mentioned above, have this all fine tuned. I hired anyone and everyone. Being an AIL salesman is far worse then being a used car salesman or a company that loans you money on your car title. Our Policy Owner Service salesperson sold a seventy five year old woman a term life policy. The premium was $890 a year. The payout on her policy when she dies was $790. Where is the truth in that? I worked from 8AM to 3AM everyday. I took orders from the higher ups in Waco, Texas which cost me money but never cost them a dime. My last 1099 was $550,000.00, but I had to claim bankruptcy since I owed them over $2 million. They also took all my residual income from all the insurance sold during my ten years. My residual income would have paid off my debt and left me with about 3 million. But they were able to withhold all my residual income. I am not the only SGA that feels this way. Several SGA‘s have sued AIL - but AIL has deep pockets. Consider AIL a vampire and stay away and keep a cross in your pocket. It is truly an evil empire.
August 14th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Good Afternoon to all:
I received a call earlier today for an interview with this company. The young lady who I spoke to had no telephone etiquette at all. In fact, I couldn’t even understand her that well and asked her to repeat the name of the company 3 times. She didn’t explain anything, I had to ask what the position was because I only apply for administrative/office manager job opportunities. I set up the interview, which I will be cancelling tomorrow, and hung up. Then I immediately went searching on the Internet for some info. I’m so glad I came across this sight. The woman told me the position was for Benefits Representative for Union Reps so I’m thinking its in the HR Department or something which made me even more happier because thats what my masters is in. Then I started thinking, wait I don’t have any experience in this!!! I called the HR woman and left a message stating that she please call me to explain the position and she didn’t call me back. Tomorrow I will be cancelling this interview. Something just didn’t sit well with me and I was searching for 5 hours before I found this. I thank each and every one of you for listing your thoughts and I wish everyone who is still looking for work the best of luck!!! Thanks again!
August 14th, 2008 at 10:08 pm
I am scheduled to interview tomorrow morning and I’m so glad I found this page tonight. I got the same type of phone call as another of the constituents above, where the interview details were very vague. I’ve been interviewing with A LOT of companies and something just did not seem right. I believe I will be saving my gas & time. THanks
August 15th, 2008 at 8:16 am
protecturfarm, I can’t thank you enough for the laugh you gave me! I owe you a bit of gratitude. I’m glad you don’t care that your company has the worst of all life insurance companies in the world. The bs about the cars in your parking lot was a great joke also, thanks! You folks churn out excuses for your shortcomings in creative ways-bless your imagination, brother. THe fact is, when someone works for a company for a few years, all the while touting they make over 6 figures, while driving a junker and MORE IMPORTANTLY NOT OWNING A HOME, they are clearly full of it. Keep working 80 hours a week and eventually smarten up and realize you know squat about insurance. Get into property & casualty if you want a real career. You’re a captive agent who knows nothing about your industry.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Additionally, the only way they will let you buy their insurance is if you allow them to ACH your checking or savings account. That means whenever you want to cancel your policy it takes months for the message to get across and all the while money is being taken out of your bank account. If you don’t allow them to ACH your bank account, you can buy insurance but you have to have 6 months premium up front. I had four public relations people to call on unions, assn., etc. They said whatever they had to in order to get the lists of the members of whatever assn they were speaking with. The post card that cames with the letter did not say anyone would be coming to your house. Our phone room was trained to say that their “free benefit” had to be signed by both husband and wife while an AIL representative witnessed it. This is the biggest lie. They don’t have to sign anything to receive the crummy $l,000 accidential death policy. They only thing they sign is the application and check for new insurance that is pushed on them. These poor blue collar workers who get by paycheck to paycheck are coerced to buy insurance by a high pressure, silver tongued liar. They tell you the policy cannot be cancelled…but what that really means is that AIL won’t cancel your policy if you keep on paying.. but when someone calls and tries to cancel they are reminded that the policy can’t be cancelled. I could go on and on and on - but now I have a real job, with real hours and a real paycheck. I don’t know how these people sleep at night. God knows I did all the years I worked for them. Stay away. Do yourself a favor, save gas and the insults. We used to interview 20 to 30 people at a time and we hired all of them. It’s just a numbers game. Remember somebody gets your renewal commission if you aren’t around to get it. Don’t take a job where you are making money for the slick liars.
August 15th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Thanks for having this site up. I too have had them call and email me, 2 days after I started my Monster.com profile. Funny, because I do 3D modeling… not sales. But I guess that’s a perfect fit for them, right?
My girlfriend just today got a call from them also, 2 days after she started her Monster.com profile. She’s pretty lucky that I let her know about this questionable company before she got suckered in.
Use common sense, people. Ask questions to the person calling you because you are “such a great person for this job”. If they really want you, they will answer the questions you ask. Read the email… does it have your actual name in it? What specifically did they like about you? Is your email the exact same as what other people received? (Google and look at other sites for that)
Obviously, the people working at AIL and want to stay have every right to do so. They must either be making something that keeps them happy, or they are thinking that someday they too can make it. That’s great. But I’m also noticing that the defenders of AIL seem to come out in spurts. “Hey dude, we might lose out on some people to make money for us! Go to this website and try to make everyone bashing AIL seem like they are unmotivated losers who couldn’t make it in the company!”
I honestly think that AIL probably already has some scripts for people to copy and paste into these sites that speak half-truths or words in their favor (look at the BBB website like one defender claimed. To no surprise, American Income has a ‘satisfactory’ rating). They are picking their battles to where they can win, and ignoring the ones where they will lose. Smart way to argue. Most of the “educated” defenders of AIL graced their replies with near perfect grammar and spelling. Oh, and great paragraph use, also. For easy reading. I might be wrong, who knows?
Also, your car, house, and clothes do reflect your income, my friend. Funny, how you chose to ignore that part of people sharing apartments. I guess they were also saving money, right? I mean, what’s $150k income if you can’t fill up your shared apartment with stuff, right? People with money spend it. I’m not saying they don’t spend it wisely. But if I had the money, I certainly buy a decent looking car, house, clothes. I’m still making lots of money on top of it.
I’m sure most of you found this site on Google. I wouldn’t know what your keywords were, but even if you just wrote “American Income“, and that’s it, you’ll find that the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th result is about it being a scam. Just about every company is slammed on the internet, but not that badly on the first page. Also, the tactics used to “recruit” new hires is certainly questionable and raises alarms.
Good luck to those who don’t heed the call.
(Don’t even bother calling me out, I won’t be back here)
August 19th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
I worked for AIL for over 2 yrs, was GA- General Agent, sometime made $2000 a week and sometime went on with $100/week, i was overall sucessful, Do i recommend ? NOT AT ALL. this company is legitimate with lots of illigal practice. eventually my sales were improved, i was closing almost 60% of the presentations. so why i am not recommending it? cause closing technics is almost lie. you lie when people ask question, or manipulate. i had to ethics left. i had to close the deal in home, coz i needed money. when you’re working 80-90 hrs a week, spending on gas like crazy, and cant make any money with being 100% honest, it will lead you to be most unethical person. in my office all successful producers are master on manipulation. then we lie in paperwork. we misrepresent their medical info, if they dont give their banking info,we used to put false bank account number to get advance upfront, if they cancel the policy we used to do fake signature to keep acocunt on book to maintain our retention bonus, lie to recruit new people and then take huge policies on your friendz and put it on their acocunt, so they make nothing coz advance they earn on it is being taken away by managers but they have to pay tax on that income. i can just keep going on and on how many illegal activites are being performed in this company. so are you ready to be unethical? moralless person? then you can think of joining this company.still success is not guaranteed. Leads are from union member but when you book an appointment, they dont know that you’re gonna sell them insurance,( how come its a lead?). i think i can write an entire book to outline each and every illegal act. dont trust those guy favour this company, they are either bunch of immoral people or completely brainwashed. they do have a sneaky technic to brainwash people, if someone like me with 3 reputalbe degree could be decived, i can imagine, people with less education could be decivied by them. guyz theres a possibility of making good money not guarantee, but the price you pay for it, is give up your social life, be ready to be bankrupt at any time, be unethical and immoral, be excited to lie.
i was making good money but i quit, coz i couldnt ignore the fact that i ruined so many lives by lieing to them and hired and left them being bankrupted, i lied to clients to sale the insurance. now i literally hate myself, that i did all these only to drive a decent car? or spend crazy on drinking?
STAY AWAY from AIL, there are still 100 more managers are waiting to ruin your life and making money out of it.
August 20th, 2008 at 10:18 am
i am so scared after i read what everybody said i have to go to an interview with them this friday; but they told me is for a supervisor position; do you think i should go now???
August 20th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
I got a message for an interview and decided to investigate. I came across this site and read your messages.. Thank you all for sharing your experiences.
I came across something very simular a few years ago with another company that sells you on helping the lower income become more financially stable, by selling them life insurance and debt consolidation plans.. the company is also a branch of a very large company.. begins with a C… anyway what happened was I was deceived into believing I was being trained for a manager position, the so called boss wanted money to train me, then wanted me to purchase insurance, when I told him I wasn’t interested in purchasing insurance from him (that I had pleanty of insurance from my FT employer) his true colors showed… he became rude and agressive and tried to bully me into buying it. I was leary before showing up at his home office the 2nd time and I’d had enough of his sales pitch, so I decided to play him at his own game and force the truth out of him by asking so many questions that he finally got tired of playing with me. I left and told him I’d think about it and call him back in a few days.. that didn’t happen and I’m so glad.. AIL seems to operate the same.. get people under you that buy from you, then have them do the same and you collect the bonus% until they sell enough or get people under them and on and on.. Oh yeah don’t forget to sucker your friends and family into the mess too…
Thank you to everyone who’s taken the time to share their experiences!!!
August 21st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Ex-Sga, I’m just curious, not attacking, what was your balance and net worth on your ap&p when you left? What was your retention when you left?
August 21st, 2008 at 11:21 pm
Okay I am going to keep it real because I am a liscened insurance agent in the State of Delaware and I am working for a insurance agency, and yes I did work for american income life insurance.
The scam is not in the fact that you have to pay money because you do have to pay money to be a agent, because you have to be liscened and that is any state.
The reality is that they blantly lie to their recruits saying you will earn a guraanteed amount of money and then later revealing that you are on commission from the very beginning.
Most good insurance companies are commisson only just ail prefirs to lie about it and then wonders why everyone quits within six months including myself. Not because I could not cut it because I am about to become a manager with another insurance company but because they lie plain and simple. And yes their leads are garbabage. You have to wonder when they hire everyone that wants the job and in six months everyone is gone.
August 22nd, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Thank you everyone for your information I too got a call this morning, I called them back and the guy told me all the information, just like everyone else it was a little vague. He told me I could make 65k to 75k in the first year. I called my mom she told me to be cautious about something like this so I called my grandmother to ask if she had ever heard of the company. Of coarse she had not so I ended up here, guess something like this was too good to be true.
August 28th, 2008 at 9:07 am
Everyone who says they ‘make you pay’ to work there are no that well informed about the insurance licensing requirements.
States have different standards for licensing but most all require a certain amount of hours of education (usually around 40) before you can even take the test to get your license. That is what you are paying for. You don’t have to go through AIL‘s school, they just make it available to you. I did all my education online.
Before all of you go blaiming AIL for making you go to those classes maybe you should do research on your state laws on how to obtain an insurance license. Then if you are still interested you can talk to whoever interviews you and ask about the online classes (which are cheaper, but not as in depth) or about other programs that fit your budget. I guarantee that they will not reject you because of this.
Its not about making money off of new hirees, its about hiring people that will be successful at what they do. Most of the people that have negative things to say about this company are failures at it. They weren’t good enough to keep their jobs or make enough money so they gave up. Instead of talking bad about a ligitmate company, maybe they should have studied more about the company’s product and pick up a sales book or two so that they may have made theirselves a success. because in the end, if it was all a scam, then how could the company have succeeded since the early 20′s?
August 28th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
I retrieved my voice mail and found a call from Jordan of AIL Canada. He said he found my resume on Monster and wanted to schedule a phone interview. I asked him what kind of position this was for and WHO was AIL Canada. Finding this all too suspicious; vague job description, called an Alberta number and person answered simply “Hello, they are magicly here in Ontario for interviews the next day. Hmmmm, and then I found this web site. I called the person back and said I found out about their little scam and the girl says, “Do you believe everything you read on the internet!” I almost laughed. Yeah, I believe it when hundreds of other people have fallen pray to the same scam. Don’t bother returning these calls. It’s a bunch of BS.
August 29th, 2008 at 11:38 am
I recieved a call from these people regarding my resume on monster.com, which is odd because I have not updated that resume in over a year. I have zero sales experience and most of my work history is in recruiting and media relations and I found it interesting that they thought I was a “perfect fit”. I attended their interviews and sat thru their sales presentation. They showed us a mailer they send out to the union members to generate leads. The mailer shows their benefits and at the bottom says something to the effect of “PS: An AIL representative may be contacting you to speak to you regarding your union benefits.” It did clearly state that the bennefits would be something they had to purchase; it sounded like the person would be calling to make sure everything would be ok. I was offered the third interview, even though the person did not see my resume once. (I met with two different people and the second person never saw my resume)
I’m not saying that this is a scam, but this type of position would be suitable for a very specific type of person. The complete commission based earnings, the 60+ hour a week, working 2 hours away from home, paying for liscense/software, and the constant pressure made me very uninterested. Interestingly, the person doing the sales presentation even addmitted that if he has a bad week he gets nervous and doesn’t sleep well at night.
Just take everything on here in consideration if you are going to interview with this company.
August 30th, 2008 at 10:30 am
What I think is funny are the comments left by AIL “managers”. I was lucky and smelled a rat early on. Don’t waste your time.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
OK…..i have interviewed, been hired, and worked for AIL. I have every right to leave a comment here. I got the same call everyone else did about this wonderful job that will pay me more money then i would know what to do with…. I went for the first interview and was amazed. I went for the second interview and was very impressed.
I am a very smart person and i know what i am worth. The “product” they are providing is not a scam. I highly believe in the health and life insurance they provide to people who work for companies or associations that would otherwise not provide for them. I thought i would be a great agent. I understood that i would have to pay to get my insurance licence. But once i thought about it, i lived an hour from the office already and i drive a car that is not so good on gas and i would like to be home to eat dinner with my family every now and then…..i decided that the job was not for me but i did want to work for the company some how. I ended up getting a job as Assistant Personnel Director/ Hiring Manager. Yes, i became the enemy people! I became one of the people who call you for an interview!!!! OMG i know!!!
What you have to understand is simple.
1. It is a great place to work for if you have the means to get started.
2. It takes a special person to be able to sell something and still be truthful. With the “product” they offer, its not hard to stay truthful, you just have to know how to explain it to people.
3. AIL is all about their clients. We wait until our clients are home from work and then we schedule our agents to go to them. We make it very easy for they clients. We do not want to inconvenience them in any way.
4. You WILL make good money once you get started. Its kind of like any sales job where you have to build up clientel. Once you get a few clients under your belt, then every month and every year you profit off of them when they pay their bill or they renew their policy. Its very very simple if you can think that deep.
I sat and listened to a meeting of the agents one day when they passes out the weekly and monthly bonuses. and yes they announce it because they want everyone to know everyones progress so it motivates you. OMG, like i said, you can make big bucks once you get started and get working. With AIL, you will make as much money as you want as long as you work and do what you want to do. If you dont care and only go to a few of your appointments a day, then you are only going to make OK money. If you go to all of your appointments, then you are going to make good money.
And as far as the “traveling” goes, yeah you might have to drive someone “far” but most if not all of your appointments for that day are in the same city. So its not like you are driving 30miles to one appointment and then you have to drive another 30miles to another. NO, they are based in one city for that day. Granted i am in North Carolina and worked for the office in Raleigh but im sure its just about the same no matter where you live.
Its a job that IS for some people, and is NOT for some people.
If you have the means and the support to get started as an insurance agent, i will say GO FOR IT!!!! but if you dont and you are used to working pay check to pay check and have 400 kids running around, dont do it. Its not for you.
When you into the interviews also, they will find out if you have a car, if you have kids, if you have other jobs, etc so they know if they want to hire you or not. they are not going to hire someone that they know will not stay.
Its not a scam. Its a business. You may like it, you may not. But you will never know unless you go in for that first interview.
September 4th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
Hi everyone,
I empathize with ALL of you. I worked for AIL and have family who is still a MAJOR part of this company and I can tell you that it is a rogue company. They use decieving tactics, and for the person above who asked why the unions and members don’t complain about this company, they do EVERY DAY.
I started out as an agent and moved into PR. My main job was building relationships with the Unions, and the presidents of the unions always had a list of complaints for us to handle. We lost a ton of business because of the way these people are bullied and lied to.
The turnover rate for the company is about 90% the ones who stay on board are usually pretty ok with lying and bullying the union members into purchasing the product. As a customer you rarely ever see the agent that sold you first again because you are not assigned an agent like you would be a state farm etc. You could be visited 2 weeks later by another agent who may try to upsell you on the product you already purchased. This goes on for years.
People do make a lot of money in this company but for the most part those people have little or no morals.
Good luck to everyone.
Sammy J
September 4th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
I am an AIL agent and have been for 4 months so far. I done know what any of you are talking about. I used to be a manager at a restaurant for 7 years before coming into the company. I went in for the interview disregarding what everyone said about insurance, best decision I ever made! I have made in 4 months what I would have made all year at my last job. I love it. I love talking to all of the members and their families. It is very rewarding. I have more time to spend with my family. I’m now making a six figure income at age 23. I have a bachelors degree in nursing but this provides more flexibility as well as more money. It is much better than a forty hour a week job making the same thing all the time and not going anywhere. You can grow really fast here. You move at your own pace. I will also retire in ten years, which is something that most(I’m not saying all, but most) other people can’t say about their jobs or career even with a degree. I will admit though that this business is not for everyone. You have to be willing to work. It can be the hardest $30,000 or the easiest $100,000. This is the truth. And also the statements that were made about paying the company in order to work is ridiculous. Every insurance company whether auto, life, or health require a license for any agent. It is required by the state. I bet no one has a problem going and getting a fishing or hunting license. Neither of these will pay as much either. So if you are going to look into this company why don’t you research on a more credible site like better business bureau or the department of insurance. Just try it out it might be the best decision you’d ever made. If it doesn’t work out, look at the bright side you still have a license to work at any other ins. company. Best of luck!!
September 4th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
I do want to comment on all these people on this site that are bashing……waah!
Oh and to luckyone, we are not all managers. I think the best credible source is someone that works here. What is dumb is that you would rather have people commenting on here that don’t work for AIL, what do they know? But do what you want it’s pretty sad to see people asking other people what they are worth. These people just want things done the easy way. Go for it, I’ll just be sittin back watchin’.
September 5th, 2008 at 3:37 am
ok i was am a real estate investor that just got in the insurance game.. i have many friends in the insurance industry saying that it is hard to find clients.. and that they had to pay for leads. so being a new agent for this company called AIL gives leads for free.
now what my SGA keeps stressing to us is not to rely on the leads and get referrals because it is the best.. those leads are just to help you start up.. as for the managers yes they ride your ass but they want to make sure you generate money for yourself.. so what if they get a cut they trained you and showed you the ropes.
now my friends from state farm, aflac and aig want to work for this company.. lets face it people if you have no sales experience don’t even think about it. since i started working there i didnt use the lead pack.i just generated my own leads through friends, family, old real estate clients etc.. in order to make it your referrals are KEY to any sales endeavor…
September 5th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
For Jen:
As a former MGA myself it always makes me laugh to hear the new people say, as yourself, that you’re going to “retire in ten years.” I find that funny as you will not be there a year from now. I would bet anything on that.
In fact your attitude suggests that you’ve been duped by the Altig agency. You seem to reperesent that forced bravado that lacks substance and ethics that the Altig agency is famous for. Do yourself a favor and get out now when you can. You seem to be a bright individual and as such should know that there are indeed “greener” pastuers to be found. If you truly want to be a force in the insurance industry then look elsewhere. Trust me on this.
Your agent contract and the products for that matter are one of the worst in the industry. This is not an opinion, its a fact. Ask yourself if the product is good, how come the retention rate for business at American Income is less than 50%…after 6 months. At other insurance companies its EXPECTED to be at 90% after one year. I could go on and on and on but seriously take a step back and ask yourself why 80% plus of the agents around you have been there 18 months or less.
September 6th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
I am currently employed with American Income Life. I ran across this website on complete accident, but had to stop and read all the comments and thoughts. I work out of the Indianapolis office.
The possibility to make $60,000 to $80,000 can actually happen! It just depends on how hard you want to work! I myself have only been working for the company since the start of June and i have been able to make some good money considering i barely work! i saw only two clients last week and my paycheck for one week was $854 plus bonus of %15! I am very happy with that kind of income.
As far as American Income being a scam… I dont believe so! I look at as helping lower income families with protection and coverage that they are going to need later in life! American income specializes in whole life which is a great thing! We do have very good rates for whole life and we are ranked A+ superior by AM Best which ranks all insurnace companies in the world so that should say something!
ALTHOUGH… i do not like the way we approach our clients! The script we are suppose to follow is “I have your benefits here in front of me and i just need to verify a little info and set a time and date so i can get this stuff out to you” Yes, they do send their info to us requesting the free stuff to be deliverd to them, BUT when i have them on the phone i always tell them i am coming over to deliver their free stuff and go over some optional benefits as well! This way they do know i am not only their to get out the free stuff to them but go over other stuff as well.
As far as the managers doing nothing… i must disagree! At least in our office that is! Our managers are always their any time we need them. They are to answer and questions we may have and to work in the office with all th paperwork plus running their own appointments.
Last but not least… $700 for start the job? yes that is very strange! I agree i had to pay as well, but it was $275 and that was to pay for the class needed to obtain my state issued license. Once you obtain you license it is yours to keep so its not like i was paying the company. I looked at it as investing the money in something i can use with this company, but if i dont like it here i can use with another one!
I am very neutral with all the comments and thoughts about the company! I do like all of my co-workers and managers and it is a very laid back atmoshere in the office, but it can also be a very big struggle as well. You have your good weeks and you have your bad weeks. I plan on working with the company for a little bit longer to make some easy money and still have plenty of free time. Once Jan comes around i plan on leaving to go to school full time! So until then… its paying the bills!
September 8th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
WOW….I’m glad i did some research. I most certainly won’t be going to the interview tomorrow.
The sad thing is, as a ex Better Business Bureau employee AIL is “accredited”, and for what reason they are i don’t know. The more i find out about the BBB, makes me glad i don’t work there either.
September 8th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
When I was contacted I was told that my application was reviewed, and that they would like to interview me for a management position. I gladly set up a time, and then asked if there was anything else I should know. I was told to dress professionally, and then given their address. I did a little research and found that many people had an ill opinion of the company, some stating that they will ask you for money.
I called the company directly for clarification as was told that in the state of California, in order to do this job on a Management or rep level you must have a license. In order to get this license, you must take 3 weeks of evening classes and pay all the dues and fees which total…are you ready? $700.00 …That’s right.. SEVEN HUNDRED DOLLARS! That the company DOES NOT help you out with.
I was also told that the “Management” position I’d be interviewing for, was more like a team lead position where I’d have my own team of sales people, and that I too would be doing sales. I didn’t get into salary, but I would imagine that it’s mostly commission based.
The good news? After 6 months the $700.00 can be refunded, not “will” be refunded but “can” be refunded. I was not given ANY of this information by the person on the phone, and yes, IT IS information I should have known. I called and canceled my interview, who are they to waste my time and gas money?
I’ve worked for compaines that require some sort of certification before, they all paid for it. If you’re worth it to them, they will pay.
My advice, stay away and spread the word!
September 10th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
I was a carpenter for ten years, worked hard at it and never did to much bitchin. In 2000 I had back surgery, couldn’t swing a hammer anymore. I put my resume online AIL called, me at that time my internet had been shut off, my truck had been reposessed and my house was nearly in foreclosure.
I went in for an interview not really understanding anything about it. All I knew is that AIL supplied Leads and you make alot of money. Not really understanding anything I asked my parents for a lone they told me I was stupid but they gave me it anyway. I now work for AIL. They gave a guy with no experience a chance to succeed all I did was listen to the people in front of me and I now make a 100k a year and Ill be willing to bet anyone in this complaint room could do the same thing if they desired it. Earlier today someone cancelled their Policy with me cause of this website, cost me roughly 300 dollars now those people that never had life insurance before through any company still go without life insurance while they have 2 little boys at home.
Everyones entitled to their own opinion about any company keep in mind I was a carpenter not a low life carpenter but an everyday show up to work carpenter and know I am making a good happy livin doing something that everyone in my family told me not to do as well as my friends. The point I’m trying to make is that anyone out there scared off of an interview with AIL because of a bunch of comments that people who you don’t even know are making your cuttin yourself short cause I no for a fact that I could help over half of you make 75k in a years time. That is A
September 10th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
2000 alp x .65 = 1300
1300 x .5 = 650 paycheck = 175 gas bonus = .15% weekly bonus add that up and, thats right $1125 paycheck
I would say not bad for a days work, anyone agree. No thats right cause your all failures
September 12th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
I am glad i researched first, i have an interview next week, but after reading these things, i have second thoughts, the thing that bothered me is the rep that called me, called my phone and left a message for someone else(keisha) but did not call my name, called another female’s name, i knew i had applied for this position so i called and left a message and explained what happened.two days later the rep called and asked for me. i explained what had happened previously in the week she didnt recall, but in turn still asked me to come in for an interview, and then asked me to bring in(keisha) the person who she originally called for! WTF!i dont know keisha, but if u are out her girl give AIF a call they are looking for u!
September 15th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Thank you everybody for their insight. I got that same call everyone has been talking about. It seemed kind of strange because I am a cetified Pharmacy Tech, looking for a job as a Pharm. Tech, and I am being offered a management job?! The way things are I NEED a job so, it seems kind of inviting. First and fore most I just checked with the BBB, AIF is not an accredited business! I have the web site in front of me. I am sure you can make money. If you like lying to people. Hey, the business has been around for 50 or so years. But, lying and cheating has been around since man kind figured out on how to prey on the gullable! I am an honest man,and always want to believe that people are like me,but,if it wasn’t for this computer, I would have found out the hard way! So, again thanks to all of the good doers! I am sure somebody from AIF who watches out for bad PR is going to show me on paper how in theory, it works . To them, all theories are not practical. This is a scientific FACT! You cannot argue fact.
September 16th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I worked at AIL as a telemarketer then agent. From my experience of 1 year I will have to say this company IS and will be a soon shown as a corrupt business in the industry. I worked in a Connecticut branch, and we would call everybody to convince them that this is the company for you. And your under the agents rule to give them contacts for prospective agents (like anyone did prosper). It was the most horrible type of management, they interviewed over 45 people, hired maybe 20 of them and kept only 3 after 3 months of this bullshit. They could care less about the customers, as the secretary was the only person to manage customer inquiries. Yeh there was some rich people, but they are the ones who persuade, lie, steal contacts for sales. F**k this place. They dont give a s**t about anything else except persuasion and building a f****n power ego trip. Coming from an agent first hand experience and truth…
September 17th, 2008 at 11:42 am
I have got to say something here.
The people that defend this company are obviously tied in with said company. I have been in sales for a long time and I know that it requires very hard work and skills, but I get paid -well- for my hard work.
A while back I was thinking of changing positions but wanted to continue my career in sales so I went on one of these interviews. It all seemed so fake, scripted,and since my job requires me to go business to business to find leads I know how the structure of the average office environment works. There was definitely something fishy going on.
My advice to anyone looking to take a job from AIL or any other company (especially marketing) is to GOOGLE the company. If your return provides only job opportunities and reports from ripoffreport.com and other sites of this nature, then run like the wind. Don’t call them back! Don’t go to the interview! It is so sad to think that the people that are actually making some kind of money in these businesses could do so well in legit sales.
Also, any company that advertises job listings as “entry level marketing” does that only to get you in the door- they don’t care if you stay, and their goal is to make every possible dollar at your expense. The people that make that money off of you are the ones that are defending these companies. And why wouldn’t they?
September 19th, 2008 at 2:35 am
Well, there is something to everyone’s comments. I have had leads from different companies over the years and the leads from AIL are good but not great. I don’t know how anonomys gets .65 unless they are a manager. We get .30 plus a bonus that goes up to 15% so that only makes .45. People do make money as just sales people but where I just starting working they do push you to start an agency, and that makes me think of a place like Quickstar. I don’t know. There are always gonna be people that there job and not say it on the web or most of the people that don’t and say something about it. Each agency is run differently so each experience is going to be different.
September 19th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
I interviewed with this company as well 2 years ago- and have been trying to make people aware of them since then.
I was called and told that AIL was looking for a Manager to head up on of their divisions…yes- A MANAGER OF A DIVISION is what I was told. At the time I was just about to graduate college and was so excited. So I went to my interview.
I met with a young woman (she could’ve only been about 25 tops)who talked to me for 5 minutes. My only experience at the time was waitressing and lifeguarding, but she thought I was EXACTLY what they were looking for.
I was then sent into a musty large room (with a couple pull out tables and chairs shaped like a horseshoe). I was the 3rd person to sit down, and then every single chair started filling up until there were about 20 of us. A very handsome man comes out and start telling us how he’s 30 and own 3 homes and 5 cars blah blah blah. At first my eyes were wide with the thought of money, and then my sense came in.
After the TWO HOUR presentation (in which we were never told about exactly what the job was going to entail) one by one, recruiters came in and took their “recruit” out of the room.
I was taken back into a small office where two men told me that they want to hire me. I, being polite, told them I’d have to think about. Even thought I knew there was no way I was going to work for a shady place like that.
Not to mention, the entire office looked like they had just moved in- or were ready to bail out.
Horrible, long, time consuming interview….DON’T WORK FOR AIL!!!!1
September 19th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
I’d also like to mention that the people who say that you really do have to work hard in order to earn $100k- yes that is true- but do you realize that these people are being forced to work pretty much 24/7 for a year to earn that?
There are a lot of great sales jobs that are legitamate where you can work really hard, and yes, you might have to work overtime to earn 100K- but NOT 24/7 while being treated like crap
September 21st, 2008 at 10:25 am
I have an interview Tuesday and am very disappointed to hear all this negative feed back. I stumbled upon this page by accident and am really glad I did! I am 21 yrs old and getting married in 3 months and HAVE to have a steady income and cant afford $700 up front or the cost of gas plus wear and tear on my vehicle that is already about to die. This is a terrible thing to do to people, especially considering I told the man over the phone I would be driving 2 1/2 hours to get to the interview, ONE WAY! Gas is over $4.00 a gallon! Thanks to everyone who has told the truth about this company!!!
September 21st, 2008 at 4:54 pm
I have an interview set with this company (AIL) this Tuesday. I was told they have a management positon open and they are very intersted in me. They found my resueme on the internet. I told my friend about my interview and she said it sounds like a company she had an interview with about a year ago. She asked if they were located at 5677 Oberlin Dr. #210, San Diego, CA, I said yes. She said it’s a scam. She and her friend had interviews with this company on two seperate occasions. Lots of people come in for an interview (a group interview) At which time she found out it’s not a management position, they want you to sale and you are paid by commission only. Of course this is not disclosed initially. During the group interview she walked out never to return. After she told me her story I decided to do some research of my own and found out many people have the similar experiences. “Come to the interview dressed professionally, bring another copy of your resume.” I so happy I did not waste my time, gas and energy.
September 22nd, 2008 at 6:22 pm
I will not say that you shouldn’t work there, and that there isn’t an opportunity but… I worked there for 8 months in the Raleigh, NC office. Not anymore.
BOTTOM LINE: If you’re not ready to sacrifice ALL your time, family and friends for the next 2 years this is not for you!
- It’s a sales job, deception, rather a twist of partial truth is common.
- Regardless of what is said or not said you are a 1099 (self-employed) at 100% comission.
- If you get a call nobody has reviewed your resume.
- The company works like this, mass produce insurance to mass produce your income. So you have to mass produce employees to mass produce your income.
- Walk up to the agents (not the managers) and ask how long they have been there. If most are less than 6 months RRRR-UUUU-NNNNN!!!
- Most agents/exemployees I know from AIL are bleeding (money) to death, and I mean most.
- The agents could barely get money together for gas to drive to work.
- The motivational meetings are designed to keep you moving… take that as you will.
- A lot of companies operate the same way.
- They feed off your excitement
- I drove an average of 240 miles per day 6 days per week. Thet’s actually pretty good.
- The company stands nothing to lose from you being unsuccessful, except they lose a money machine.
- You will work from 8am-midnight/1am often.
- They will leave things out just to get you in, once in they will sell you which is easier in person.
- We saw primarially low - middle income families, when gas shot up cancellations/charge backs went through the roof.
I just want to educate people, because I was not explained a lot of things… It’s not a scam just a lot different than a regular career.
Check out my detailed blog:
http://ailifeins.blogspot.com/
September 22nd, 2008 at 6:37 pm
“anonymous Says:
2000 alp x .65 = 1300
1300 x .5 = 650 paycheck = 175 gas bonus = .15% weekly bonus add that up and, thats right $1125 paycheck
I would say not bad for a days work, anyone agree. No thats right cause your all failures
September 10th, 2008 at 10:38 pm ”
Hey anonymous, you left out a detail. That’s not a paycheck it’s a $650 advance. For the people who don’t know. If a client should cancel within a year they will take that $650 (called a charge back) out of your next paycheck. The 15% bonus is only after 5%, 10% has been acheived consecutivly each week.
My favorite: The company (AIL) collects 7 months of premium from a client. They advance you a year of premium when you write the policy. If the client cancels they take back your year advance, and pocket the 7 months of premium. Thank you for your hard work we won’t pro-rate it they take it all from you.
Side note: The whole life is a great value, as long as people aren’t sold on the point of a policy loan. The other products aren’t the best value.
http://ailifeins.blogspot.com/
September 23rd, 2008 at 12:41 am
I was a SGA for AIL after working my way up the ladder; I worked very very hard & made a lot of money. I have been receiving renewals from AIL for about 6 years. The field for AIL agents is quite brutal but if an agent is able to endure & close,he or she can make a lot of money. Here is the problem: sales people are born not made! Sales is not for everyone. I had a lot of fun working with AIL and went on all the conventions.
When I went to work for them I received no training but learned the latest jokes. I had no previous sales experience but was desperate to make something happen-and I did.
Some agencies operate under a cloud of questionable practices. Most of them work agents as though slavery still exists.
I read a lot of comments about AIL paying commission only; I will work for nothing but commission. I want paid for my full worth.
I’ve been retired from AIL for 6 years & have not missed a monthly renewal check. I wanted to get back into business so I got my real estate license & have been kicking ass in an agency where you’re not expected to make anything for 1 yr. I was salesperson of the month my first month!
My point is this: there is a lot of crap that life deals us but when we stop whining and get busy, there is no limit to what we can accomplish!!
GOD bless all you wonderful folks; go out & make something happen (if you are sales material).
September 23rd, 2008 at 12:11 pm
HERE IS THEIR CAREERBUILDER POST: (note how it says Management Trainee instead of Insurance salesperson)
THIS IS WHAT THEIR POST SHOULD BE:
If they were more truthful- nobody would complain!!!!
September 24th, 2008 at 4:28 am
Hello Folks!
It was a wonderful experience going through all the comments. I think that the fact is that every employer, business and affiliation has its ups, downs, goods and bads, and they are not really for everybody. Some people are used to working for a corporation and collect their 9 to 5 check and do really well, many like working for name brand businesses and some like working for startups for a ground floor opportunity and many like to be in the business of their own. Some like set-salary so they know for sure what is coming home each month and some love to be in sales with salary and commissions, and a few don’t mind working just for commissions. My point is that NOT everybody will like everything and in a same way AIL is one of those companies that is not for everybody.
I just went through AIL‘s interview process and based on my research I think if I wanted to be in that sort of field then I would at least give them a try because based on what I have researched so far on the internet is not strong enough for me to vote against them. At least they are not YTB or other MLM companies that are totally misleading innocient people into buying dreams that don’t exist.
I actually liked AIL‘s environment and sincerity during my interview process which was WAY better than other insurance companies, at the end they even told me to discuss with my family to see if this is the right opportunity for me. Since my objectives are slightly different I will unfortunately turn them down but other than that I think they are great in their line of work when you compare them to companies in their catagory.
For a little change of conversation I would like to share some of my experiences which do not relate to AIL: For 20 years I lived and worked in Silicon Valley, California. There I worked with and for some big biotech and hi-tech name brand companies (from Genentech to Palm to Yahoo). Every company I worked for, there were just more people complaining about the organization.
Even the best companies where I worked, most of my life I dealt with lies and politics more than the facts. I used to manage people, department, projects, technical functionalities and due to the nature of my job I used to constantly interact with other departments and their management. Being in the management and dealing with other managers and departments is like dodging bullets and those of you who have worked in a “real” management will agree with me. So, negativity is everywhere, even in your own house. It’s up to you if you want to tackle it or just quit it. Don’t leave the game just by hearing that there are some cheaters in it because thats just part of life. Be a part of the game or you won’t know the facts. Even if you realize that it wasn’t for you then at least you will added something to your bucket of wisdom.
One last sentence of advice is that the residual income is the way to go whichever way you can earn it through an HONEST accomplishment. It sure requires burning a huge amount of calories at first.
Raj.
September 28th, 2008 at 10:36 am
But if you buy this insurance…is it good viable insurance? I have read all the things about employment with this company, but do they pay when you have a claim?
September 29th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Yes Linda-GA, the company pays claims. I’m in my third year at AIL in Philadelphia and have filed and delivered countless claims to people.
It’s incredible how so many people here are trying to kill an opportunity for others to be successful. THIS COMPANY IS NOT A SCAM FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!! You have to PAY for YOUR insurance license. You don’t get it for FREE!! 90% turnover sounds about right. The ENTIRE insurance industry has a 90% attrition rate. Prudential has the lowest because they pay their agents a fake salary for the first 6 months. This “salary” is actually a draw, it comes off your back end. I applied to Pru in ’95 in Brooklyn NY, had to pay for my license there too!! Didn’t take that position because I HAD TO SOLICIT MY FRIGGIN FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!! Yeah right, are you kidding?
If you are not wired for sales (in other words-WEAK), don’t come here, we don’t want you. Get a job like the rest of the masses, punch a clock, get your paycheck on Friday for exactly $622.37 (with overtime $674.81), retire at 65, then die in your bed at 84. Good luck to you. BUT FOR GOD’S SAKE PLEASE…STOP COMPLAINING!!! GO AWAY!!!
4.7% of the country earns $100,000 a year or more, the reason for that is 95% of US citizens are not willing to WORK or SACRIFICE in order to achieve that goal.
My first year i reported $123,000 to the IRS. 2nd year $170,000. This year on pace to make almost $250,000-A QUARTER OF A MILLION DOLLARS FOLKS. I have a high school education with no formal training whatsoever, i can’t believe how much money i earn. If i quit AIL today, i would get $2,500 a month in renewals for the next 10 years. And to that moron who claimed to be a former MGA who claimed renewals aren’t real, an agent who worked for AIL in the nineties just came back to work because his renewals stopped. ITS REAL, OH MY GOD, THE SINISTER MINDS THAT RUN AIL ACTUALLY PAY THE MONEY PROMISED!! Jeesh.
Stop it.
September 29th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
Did some research myself before going to that interview!! Glad I did Something just was not right about the initial phone conversation. She was just to cold sounding! like she was reading from a card. when I called back for directions twice no answer!! I got an e-mail confirming the interview. I politely declined and thanked them for the offer!! A VERY MISLEADING company. they should not be aloud to lie like that and get away with it.. Its not right…
September 30th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Moby says,
THEN STOP RECRUITING PEOPLE WHO HAVE NEVER DONE SALES BEFORE AND STOP TELLING THEM IT’S A MANAGEMENT POSITION INSTEAD OF TELLING THEM STRAIGHFORWARD THAT IT IS A SALES POSITION!!!!!!!!!
September 30th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
WILL,
That’s your opinion. In Tom Hopkins audio CD he specifically says “There’s no such thing as a born salesman.” Zig Ziglar also agrees. So I guess you have more than 60 years of experience betweeen the two of them, and are speaking at million dollar seminars?
MOBY:
Hey check your statistics! These agents make up #’s and lie through their teeth! As of ending of 2006 5.63% of Americans make over 100k. (source us census, and wikipedia)
I’m sure that # is even higher by now. I’m glad you reported $123k, but what was it after your deductions and taxes were finally taken out? So you worked 80 hours per week, maybe cleared 80k (max) congrats you made 40k of what an average joe schmoe 9-5 American made.
BOTTOM LINE: Facts about this industry especially with regards to employment are kept under lock and key. Renewals are equivalent to a company sponsored 401k with a 6% matching. The company didn’t even want to give them, the union had to negotiate that for the agents. And as clients cancel or die off they deplete, the 401k is always yours.
MOST OF THE STATISTICS OF SUCCESS WHILE I WORKED FOR AIL WERE COMPLETE AND UTTER B.S.!
September 30th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
I too, am glad I stumbled across this site.
I have been getting at least 1 call a week to come
interview for AIL.
I had 2 interviews set up, and didn’t even go.
Do they just keep cycling the same resumes from job sites or
what?
October 1st, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Hey Strangat,
If i knew this position was sales i never would have come in for the interview. NEVER! I thank the good lord everyday that i WAS NOT TOLD. This company would have no employees if recruits were told it’s sales over the phone! EVERYBODY IN THIS AGENCY NEVER SOLD A DAMN THING IN THEIR LIFE!! It’s an OPPORTUNITY. Come in for the interview, listen to the material being presented to you, THEN make an INFORMED decision as to whether or not you possess the ingredients to be successful in the sales game. HOW FRIGGIN HARD IS THAT?!
Drew: Where the hell did you get the statistics comparing a 6% company contribution to a 401K. Agents at AIL CONTRIBUTE ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. We are paid fresh renewal commissions on past sales. What are you talking about?
5.63, 4.75, 5.89 percent. Whats the difference? It amounts to roughly 5% of Americans MAKING LESS THAN 100K PER YEAR. Do i have to repeat myself to the slow ones out there?
I have tons of respect for those that gave it a real shot, most of the wimps posting comments on this site have no business doing so, they never even came in for the group, SO SHUT UP!!
And Drew, please don’t discuss money with me. I pay less tax now than i did earning 45K at my last job. Since i came to work for AIL i now have: 2 Mercedes, a home worth half a million, an impressive stock portfolio, a college fund, disposable income for fine dining, luxury vacations and finer things for my children. I drove a Limo for 17 years before finding AIL. This company provides average Joes with DRIVE, AMBITION AND A WILL TO SUCCEED like myself, a chance to make it AND MAKE IT BIG.
I’m sorry you failed Drew, now go punch that clock, you’re late for work.
October 2nd, 2008 at 2:31 am
OK, (big sigh…) A lot needs to be cleared up. Mainly for the sake of the people missing out on an opportunity that may be right for them. First of all, Yes $700 is required to start earning money. That is mostly going to the State for Licensing and Schooling not to American Income Life. Any Insurance company you apply for will require you to go threw the same STATE REQUIRED schooling and licensing. SO THAT SHOULD NO LONGER BE A CONCERN. sigh… Second. Ok Lets say that you are the worst sales person in the world, If you sell one package a week that will put roughly $500(net) to your pocket. which is more that I was making at $13.00 an hour. Ask your hiring manager to see an advance report. Anyone in the office including the new agents will gladly show you because they had the same fears. I reviewed this page several times befor joining 6 months ago and almost decided not to pursue AIL. Im personally glad I did and wouldn’t be typing this if i wasn’t. I have average sales and have been making good money, NO PIPE DREAM, but good money. I have worked on an I9 Befor and its no big deal, people fear them because they have never had to use one befor. This didn’t hesitate my decision because in construction I was always under an I9. You can get more deductions with an I9 then with a W2 no matter what job you work at. The final thing that made me change my mind is the fact the the licence is good for three years. If you don’t like your job then leave and you will have a nice addition to the resume. I havn’t seen a single employee leave the office except to open there own. And one more thing every person who was hired the last 2 months sold 2 deals there first day. Think about it.
October 2nd, 2008 at 2:37 am
OHH YEAH almost forgot… Every one in the office as part of training will go threw the other end of the hiring process. so those of you who feel like they are reading off of a script…ITS BECAUSE THEY ARE. Nobody is going to get it right the first time. gezzzzz. who gives a s**t. Its a Job offer. Check it out and make your own decision.
October 3rd, 2008 at 11:31 am
MOBY Says:
“Hey Strangat,
If i knew this position was sales i never would have come in for the interview. NEVER! I thank the good lord everyday that i WAS NOT TOLD. This company would have no employees if recruits were told it’s sales over the phone! EVERYBODY IN THIS AGENCY NEVER SOLD A DAMN THING IN THEIR LIFE!! It’s an OPPORTUNITY. Come in for the interview, listen to the material being presented to you, THEN make an INFORMED decision as to whether or not you possess the ingredients to be successful in the sales game. HOW FRIGGIN HARD IS THAT?!”
You can’t make an informed decision because everything you are told is LIES!!!!! You are a liar. You even outright admit that you and they are LYING to candidates. I don’t want to be a liar and I don’t want to work for liars.
I have never been a salesperson- and never WANT to be one. That said, I am upset that this company LIED to me about the interview process, LIED to me about the position I was interviewing for, LIED to me about the actual process of how I would “be rich”, LIED to me about the upfront money being spent, LIED to me about everything.
Go work 80 hours a week and make your 100K by lying and deceiving people…I’d rather work 40 hours and make 60K a year in a company that doesn’t make money based on lying and I’d rather spend the other 40 hours with my husband, friends, and family.
October 3rd, 2008 at 11:37 am
Moby says “Since i came to work for AIL i now have: 2 Mercedes, a home worth half a million, an impressive stock portfolio, a college fund, disposable income for fine dining, luxury vacations and finer things for my children. I drove a Limo for 17 years before finding AIL. This company provides average Joes with DRIVE, AMBITION AND A WILL TO SUCCEED like myself, a chance to make it AND MAKE IT BIG”
Isn’t it funny how you list all material things for yourself and your family and I list spending TIME with my family…that shows the difference between us right there.
October 10th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
My name is Jason. Before you concider employment with this billion dollar company, I ask you read this review I have posted as it may save you MUCH of the aggrivation, time, and money, that it cost me. I did not take the time to type this up because I have way too much time on my hands, I simply typed it because I want others to learn from my “and others” crucial mistakes.
I was first hired with A.I.L in “N. Royalton Ohio,” about the end of July 2008. I was promised riches as long as I was a go-getter, and was willing to work long hours. I was in construction for most of my life, and concidered myself very capable of both of these. Apparently, they agreed as I was hired rather quikly, “just as everyone else was with no experience in sales once so ever.”
I sacrificed EVERYTHING for this job. EVERYTHING in my life was put on hold so that I could give this job the attention I THOUGHT it deserved. I was told that i would be paid training, so that it would be easier for someone like myself to make the career change. The state exam for your insurance lisence is not easy, and you do have to pay for it out of pocket everytime you fail by the way.
It took me only twice luckly. I spent both time….”about one month” and money “about $500″ after all the application fees and whatever else to obtain my insurance lisence. Once I finally obtained my lisence, I was given a 4 page script that i had to memorize, word for word!! I did not like the fact they didn’t tell me about it at first, but hey…i’m a “go-getter.” So i sucked it up, and memorized it.
This took me an additional 3 weeks to do “for free.” Once i acheived this, i was put in a one week training class that was NOT PAID. When I mentioned the fact that I was told I was going to be paid for training, “hurting for some money by this point as you can imagine,” I was told I misunderstood, as the class is paid for, not me.
I am not a stupid man!! I know what i was told!! In fact, if it wasn’t for that one little detail about the job, I probably would not have taken it. They also told me they did not like me asking questions and pretty much told me to shut up “in there own words.” So just like before, I sucked it up and kept going.
If you play poker…”I was pot invested,” I had no choice. This is where those “LONG HOURS” started. We would start class at 9 oclock, got out at 4. Then I was instructed to drive to wherever my manager was to sit in on presentations of the bennefits.
My first “attempt” at a presentation was at 9 o’clock the same night of my first training day. I did not get home until 11 0′clock!! “FREE MIND YOU!!” 9 to 11….whats that?? 14 hours!?!? When I was dropped off back at my car, I was instructed to go home and read my script more, rather then get some rest for tomorrow morning. The next few nights were the same, not giving me anytime to study any of the material given to us “AND EXPECTED TO KNOW,” in class.
So about half way through the class week, I was told about all the postings from former employers and anyone who was/is affiliated with the company in any way shape or form. 95% of what I read was BAD!! And I read alot! No one had anything good to say about this company. I guess i’m not that smart of a man, other wise I would have found this on my own, way back when I was hired!! HAHA….jokes on me I guess.
Anyways, the last day of training class was…..actually today October 2 2008. The class had ended at 4, and as soon as I walked out I was fired by my manager because ‘M’ (name moderated), the rich snobby a*****e who runs the joint, didn’t have the b***s to do it himself, even though he was standing right there.
I was fired because someone overheard me talking about the sight with the same person who told me about it. We were both concerned “AS I’M SURE YOU CAN IMAGINE!” Now wouldn’t you say it’s disturbingly ironic they fired me with no hesitation at all once they found out I knew about the sight? They also said they didn’t like the fact I wasn’t willing to work 15 hours a day for training even after all i had a acheived thus far!
Common sense will tell you that is no way to efficiently train someone! Please…….do your research! These people are very good at what they do, and somehow scam thousands like myself. I am a very religious christian “AS THEY CLAIM TO BE,” and DO NOT want this to happen to anyone else, even though I know it will. All the numbers are in black in white if you just look for um.
Absolutly no one stays with this company unless their dad is an S.G.A. who pays um a rediculous amount of money out of pocket. Of course its your decision you whether or not you listen to me……I pray to to the allmighty Jesus Christ that you do. if you have any questions at all about two-faced ‘M’ (name moderated) and this company, PLEASE, DO NOT HESITATE TO ASK!! MY E-MAIL IS [email protected].
God bless all of you!!
October 13th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
OK, Here’s one for the record. I am a Nurse and an RT. For those of you who don’t know I make real good money. Nursing shortage, watch the news. I posted a resume looking for a second job so I can pay for my masters sooner and buy myself a second show horse.
What the hell were these people doing calling me. Sales ? Hello I save lives not corrupt them nor do I lie or sell anything. My father is a very successful sales man and I’ll tell ya what he knows his stuff . Scam or not why would they contact a nurse for that matter. The woman on the phone only mentioned a position opening in there department. So as the many calls for interviews i recived i wrote down the name and date.
I walked in on a Tuesday morning in a room with at best ten other people and asked if they knew anything about the position for RN or RT and if they knew if they wanted copies of my certs. or if they needed to see my actual degrees. The gentleman replyed he was here for the manager position.
From the looks of his payless knock offs I did not feel he was a very wealthy man nor with the way he used the english language could he have any sort of degree. I gave the receptionist my resume and waited. When i was called in by a clean cut man about mid fourties I quietly entered what i assumed to be his office.
He looked over my resume and asked what i wanted to do with my life. I kindly answered Health care and emergency medical care, he asked about any achivements i might have to offer this company? I told him about my masters and how i currently trying to get my DR. for emercency room care. ER DOCTOR for the SGAs or THE AILs who have hardly any college education.
He looked very nervous at this point and then the million dollar question. I asked the man if he was going to tell me what this position’s title was and if he would like to elaborate on the salary I was told it payed on the phone. He stuttered and replyed it was a sales position and there must have been a mistake.
I told him very abruptly that I told the woman on the phone i am a nurse and she told me thats what made me perfect for the position. Then man then tried to pitch me the job and I asked him for his full name and to speak with his supervisor. The man was very rude and said just a moment. Then the best part of all a man walked in the room and asked why I was giving the interviewer such a hard time.
I asked the man for his full name and I explianed to him I was conacting my lawyer due to the fact i was told i was lieing about the phone call and that my time is more valuable by the hour and someone will be compensating me for my time and gas that this is fraud.
I called my lawyer right in the office. Then man asked me to leave as i steped out with in 20 min my lawyer arrived. He explained that it is fraud in the state of CT to call and lie on the phone about a job and then to have me ther for two hours when i could be saving lives.
Needless to say I got a check. If this place actually had good coverage I would know I work in health care never heard of them. Further more if you work for them and actually do make money - wow! I was a liitle skeptical too when I noticed my car was the only car worth over 5 grand. Yes I do base a job off of what my boss is driving. Mainly due to the fact if hes not driving a jag bmw or atleast a benz then i wont be either.
DONT GO, DONT AGREE! i work in health care over 200 people a day in my ER no one has this insurance aflec yes met life yup travelers use to and state sure never this sorry scam or not I have a good paying job yes i paid for my degrees but i do know if they wont pay for your training then they cant afford me.
October 14th, 2008 at 2:39 am
I’m so glad i checked out this site!!!I have a scheduled interview tomorrow but had second thoughts of going.I decided to check the company profile first and then checked for complaints.Good thing I checked and found out that the person who called me was actually reading a script!!!Thanks for all the information!!!
October 14th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
So is this really a scam a women just called me from there trying to schedule an interview in the am.. I am thinking this is not something I want to do… please give me insight.
October 14th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
I thanks guys , so much of you can’t be telling a lie,
i was suppose to go on an interveiw with these guys and for some reason i didnot go.the interveiw was set for 930 am and they called me at 945 saying that i had not attented the interveiw and was saying that i could rechedule,i think this was strange,not showing up for an interveiw and the recruiter calling and rechedulling,and i have no prior sales experience nor i am not a phd holders,
something is fishy about these guys
October 15th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Knowing I needed a new job as of soon, I was called by these folks. I never sent them my resume. Thank you all for the info. According to the NJ Attorney General, the most complained about employer in the nation.
October 15th, 2008 at 11:55 pm
I’ve worked for AIL for 5 months. Never had a problem. I make lots of money. You just have to do exactly how they tell you to do it and you’ll be successful. You can’t go in thinking that you know everything. You don’t! Most of these complaints are not true. Im not saying all. Some of them have a little truth (a very small amount). This ongoing argument is so pointless. Obviously you guys haven’t found a job yet. Good luck.
October 17th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
I feel bad for everyone that logs onto this sight. Especially the people who have a $100,0000 college education who are looking for high pay with little work. Cause I have a $600 education and did what AIL told me and I recently paid off my fiance’s $75,000 education and guess what because of me she will probably never work. Oh ya I’ve led a normal life in the process. I guess what I’m trying to say is while it hasn’t always been easy at AIL It’s been a good job.
Everyone on this page thats negative is a looser and don’t want to work. Stop stealing potential dreams from people that don’t know you face to face.
I was a roofer, there is alot of people that do hard manual laber for a living that work hard everyday dreaming of an opertunity that AIL presents.
AIL gave me a regular Joe an operatunity that most company’s wouldn’t give for that I am thankful.
They will give many more nobody’s an opertunity this week, next week and every week to come that’s just the way it is.
Again don’t steal dreams of others while sitting on the couch eating cheetos and playing video games.
Thank you
October 19th, 2008 at 3:07 am
Wow! I can’t believe some of you people would even apply for a sales position. Most of the blogs are from people that failed, or never even followed through. To those of you that thanked an individual on this site due to the fact that you did not pursue a position in this company….I thank you too! I would have had to work with such negative people. Thank you!
I have been with this company since January 2008. I have earned over $60,000 and have taken six weeks off of work. Just this week I got my first renewal check. $460.00! Just for doing a good job this year and the company projects that my results will be profitable, so I will continue receiving these checks and they are only going to grow. And after ten years they are guaranteed for the life of the policy. Thanks AIL.
To those of you that say you need to work more than 40hrs to make a six figure income here. Well yeah. Show me a job that you don’t and I will start working there because I am lazy. In fact, I only gave 6 presentations this week and since I am good at what I do I sold 5 of them. I made almost $2,000 and these people all live in my same town so the travel factor and expense was not taken out of my earnings. So this week I have more money than most people in the US. Awesome!
Now it is true that there is a lot of turn over in our company. But as someone mentioned above that is industry standard. In our company I have realized something very simple. When you have different people running different offices you get different structures and results vary. Sounds silly but I am so used to large corporations where everyone has there SOP and it is boring, but hey it works. Lots of people get the same check doing the same thing and all of them complain about it the same way. In our office we started with on MGA one agent and me, the new hire. It was great. I got to do what I, want when I wanted, and I started becoming part of every function of the office, including hiring.
So far this year we have hired over 30 people. We now have 15 agents out in the field working and making great money. Unfortunately, we have lost two people. One quit and the other was let go. That is pretty good retention! Also, we are moving down the hall to a much bigger office as we are growing quick and unfortunately the big real estate office is closing. Ohh and by the way the company is paying for everything. Phones, computers, lease, supplies…you name it. And yes, I did have to pay $312.00 for this opportunity which is a complete tax write off.
I used to dislike these sites. Gave false impressions from angry failures. Now I like them. I saw the blogs before I interviewed also. But I don’t listen to anyone that has only negative things to say. That is far to easy in to do life and speaks poorly about your ability to help a friend, family member, or a company succeed. That is what is great now. Since I am involved in the hiring, training, management and everything else…..These sites are a blessing. The people that make decisions based on the complaints of failures are only looking for reasons to fail and not succeed. I don’t want your $312.00 worth of complaints in my future and would not like to see you have a bad day and blame the world like there is no tomorrow and bring down the culture in our office. Thank you internet!
Next year the company has plans for me to run my own office. Negative BLOGGERS need not apply.
October 20th, 2008 at 10:52 am
Driven says “Wow! I can’t believe some of you people would even apply for a sales position”.
We don’t “apply” for a sales position. We are lied to. We are told it is a management or a mangement trainee position. And only at the cattle call presentation are we told that it is sales - but sales that “help people” and that “make us rich”. We are never told about anything else- including not making money right away, traveling, expenses, exams…etc.
Thank God for these sites or else there would be many, many more people that waste 3 hours of their time going to a devious “interview” (aka cattle call for poor naive people - including myself at one point)with cheaters and liars.
October 22nd, 2008 at 5:32 pm
Driven, I think too many brainwashing tactics have been “driven” into your head too deep to talk rationally to you. You also have “driven” away all of your earnings in that you pay for all your gas. Oh, its a tax write off!! Dude, why do other companies pay for their sales associate’s gas, phone, and offer credit cards for client entertainment? Keep plugging away at your remedial life insurance sales job where you throw poor unsuspecting, hardworking and less fortunate Americans into a high pressure sales pitch and then never see them again, chief. Your companys average retention is a joke by the way.
October 22nd, 2008 at 6:22 pm
I just got call on an interview in Seattle, WA and now won’t go. Thank you all for the heads-up and information on this company.
October 23rd, 2008 at 3:50 pm
I would like to thank everyone for their posts. I got a call from this company and the recruiter seemed to have very little information about the company. I asked her if she can check with the manager, but the manager seemed to be in a meeting. I guessing the manager is in a lot of meeting. I don’t think this company is scamming people, it just seems like it sucks working for them.
October 24th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
I just interviewed with AIL for the position of Sales associate. I decided not to take the job because I am going through school at the same time, and don’t have the time to get started in a full-time job such as this.
I’d like to clear up some things as far as the insurance industry goes in general though, because all of these blogs made me nervous so I called a friend who works for State Farm. First off. If you are going to sell insurance, you need to be licenced, and to get licenced costs money. I found a private licencing company, who’s training program would be about the same as that of AIL. Some software, a classroom setting etc. Their prices were about the same. My friend also told me that I would have to continue my education in insurance sales to keep up with things. SO as far as training and the cost of getting licenced, its the same throughout the industry.
Secondly, They wont lie to you, if you get smart and ask the questions that matter. They didn’t to me atleast. When I asked what the success rate of new sales associates is, they told me 6% of the people they hire can actually do what they do. The office that I interviewed at wasn’t going to hire just anyone either. They wanted good people. I watched for that because all of you made me a little nervous about it. I didn’t want to be part of a cattle call as some of you have said. Basically if you think about it though, if ANY company hires 100 people and only 6 can do the job, and the other 94 people either quit or are let go, the company is going to have to hire atleast another 94 people. More if the company is growing. The fact that 94 people couldn’t do it shows that the job is hard. Its a sales job. Its not for everyone.
The man who interviewed me told me that if I wanted to be successful I would PROBABLY have to make 32 appointments a week, or about 20 presentations. If you think about that a presentation is going to take atleast an hour, depending on no one but yourself. Which means you are automatically working more than 20 hours a week, probably closer to 30 or 40. If you are a good salesman, you would have to visit less people to make lots of sales. If you are bad at it, you could visit people all day and not sell anything. Thats how it works when it comes to sales. I know that the people at the office I interviewed at work very very hard, and they work long hours. Thats what it takes in any field. Sales is one of those things where if you “kinda” do it, you “kinda” make money.
If you had asked them before hand if they were going to pay for your gas and your phone, they will tell you no. You can however use it as a tax write off, and they will tell you how to do that. They told me.
I would have liked to try it, but to me my schooling was more important than taking a chance. There are benefits, but like anything, there are risks involved.
October 24th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Also, as a sales associate, you don’t really have a part to play as far as hiring people. However, if you do well, they may assign you to help train someone else (who THEY hired, not you). Then you would make a little more money. OBVIOUSLY. If you are more important, they are going to pay you more.
October 25th, 2008 at 11:54 am
HAHAHA-do you have any idea how transparent you are, “Scott” the AIL employee? You underestimate people’s intelligence-you are clearly working for AIL! World’s greatest B***S**T Force!!!
October 27th, 2008 at 1:50 am
yeah, actually I’m still looking for a job. Thanks though.
October 27th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Scott is totally working for them. I’d love to get all of the AIL employees phone numbers and call them in a year and see how long it took them to quit and realize they are brainwashed!!
October 27th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
The issue is rather, a company that has to resort to recruiting employees by way of gross misrepresentations has a flawed business conscience. On this basis it is easy to extrapolate this culture through to their products. So I can only imagine that most policy holders are being royally f**ked.
October 28th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Mark has said it best…
October 28th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
So I put my resume on monster.com and I can’t stop getting emails from these people. I Googled their company name and got this page. I asked them to stop emailing me, they haven’t. What a bunch of annoying scammers.
October 29th, 2008 at 8:42 am
haha, the recruiter was a hot seductive actress. I didn’t mind, just asked her if she wanted to get some coffee later. company is a sham.
October 30th, 2008 at 9:59 am
All the people saying that the cost of getting a license and books and suplies are legit. I understand that, but this company called me saying they could offer employment, not a education. So they are being misleading off the bat. Frankly gas cost too much for me to be going to a job iterview, that turns out to to tuition for school. Thats just something that needs to be said up fron. If its not disclosed up front its a SCAM!!!!!
October 30th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
A guy calls me last week who works for AIL,and gives me a pitch over the phone. He says that,”You are what we are looking for.” Funny, I have absolutely no sales background whatsoever.He told me to come in tomorrow at 10:00am, and dress professional.Also, bring a copy of my resume. Later that evening I researched this company online.The complaints about AIL were overwheling. Needless to say I didn’t show up the next day to my interview.Thank you to everyone who were honest. You saved me alot of dissapointment and humiliation. again thanks.
October 31st, 2008 at 10:43 am
I want to thank everybody for exposing AIL for what it is. I went to an interview yesterday and got called back for my “third” interview today. Its good to know I didn’t get sucked into this B.S., and its all because you guys took the time to let us know that these guys are a bunch of FRAUDS. They tell us not to rely on the opinions of the employees who have done what they want to hire us to do. Employees who have been there, done that. I have never heard of anything so ludicrous! This site is their karma - they lose good sales people by not being up front and honest. Thanks!
October 31st, 2008 at 4:43 pm
I work at AIL. I got brought on board by my step dad, who is a regional manager. The company is ligit, but you have to be dedicated to work hard. Its not just easy money. The problem with most people is that they have selective hearing when it comes to the interview process. They hear all of the positive and ignore the negatives. Then when it comes time for them to work they slack and fail. Its not the company’s fault, its the people who fails fault.
The complaints are overwhelming and thats because a lot of people don’t have it in them to do this kind of work. The company also has a lot of successful people that would tell you the exact oppisite of what you here on websites like these. Now the whole thing about “paying to work here” is misleading. You are paying for the legal requirements to obtain an insurance lisense. Also, its a sales job, plain and simple. People complain about not getting paid for gas, but they do give you leads that actually cost the state general agent about ten bucks a pop. you get over a hundred leads just starting off. so thats over 500 bucks of free leads. i would rather have those leads then the gas money, which is a write off. so all the people who are researching this company to see if its ligit, don’t rely just on websites like these (which are just disgruntled exemployees who couldn’t sale sh*t). Study about the insurance business in general. Also look at financial success and history of the company. You will find out that its one of the best companies in the trade. And another thing, all these people that failed with AIL would’ve failed in any sales position.
October 31st, 2008 at 4:44 pm
sorry a correction, for the leads its about five bucks a pop.
October 31st, 2008 at 4:46 pm
and you get them for free
November 2nd, 2008 at 11:17 pm
The leads cost the SGA $15 a piece, that is why it is important to supplement them with referrals and they are easier to sell, also. If you can talk to people, and don’t mind working, AIL is great. I worked there for 10 of the last 16 years and have recieved over $4,000,000 in commisions (was an SGA for 8+ of those years) and my renewals are currently over $11,000+ a month. The 6 years I wasn’t with AIL I was able to not work at all and spend all that time with my children and wife. It is the real deal for the right people. That is the reason for the mass interviews, so you can find the right people, do not listen to the naysayers if you are curious go and judge for yourself. You will know after the interview process if it feels right for you. This website will not give you the information for your particular area SGA and there office. Good Luck to all who are openminded and are looking for an excellant business opportunity with very little initial investment. It has been a blessing for me and my family. I am actually considering going back to work as an MGA in the near future.
Satisfied Ex-Sga
November 3rd, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Great info. someone should find a way of dragging them to court! I was about to call them. I love google, don’t you?
November 5th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
Thanks guys! I think they’re trying to roll out in a bigger way in New Zealand. This is the first I’ve heard of them in my town - job ad looked professional enough - tick - insurance product, good so far - tick - until…OUT OF NOWHERE the ad read “this is not MLM!” - hhhhmmmm??? huge red flag - found my way here - thank u.
November 7th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
I wish I saw this site before I signed up with Altig in Canada. Does anyone know if I can leave this company anytime? I am set to write my life insurance exam soon. Is there any obligation for me to stay with the company given all the bad experiences many people have had? Should I quit before I write the exam or after or does it matter? Their name is signed as the agent of witness on the LLQP certificate? I would assume they did not start the Errors and Omissions Insurance on me before I have the license? I hope there would be no charges associated with leaving the company. I know I lost the 312 dollars for Admin fees, but does anyone know if there are any other charges they would require me to pay upon leaving?
November 10th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Latereader- That’s how they get you! With the administration fees that nobody can get back.
So, minus the admin fees- how much money did you spend on Altig so far- including how much did you pay for the exam?
November 12th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
The course was nearly $400 and it included a text, DVD’s, online mock tests and online exams. The provincial test should be around $100, I think. I have not gone to the stage of needing to remember the 10 page script or anything like that. I am thinking about cutting my losses and just moving on to get a different job. I would not be happy at all if I sink a ton of my time in this job to have the experiences that most of you all had. It might be best to write off the experience as a valuable lesson learned and to warn my family and friends about it.
November 13th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Do what your gut tells you to do…
If I were you- I’d cut my losses and move on.
This company wasted valuable time from my life.
They are liars and cheats. But- if you really want to work really really hard (8am - 10pm, M-Sat) and never see your family or friends- then go for it!
November 14th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
how can i contact this company and cancel my policy
November 14th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
There is definitly no such thing as easy money.. But no amount of money should ever make you want to work for AIL. They are in the business of money & they don’t care about all the rules of insurance. All the stuff you learn while getting your license… is not as important as memorizing your script. I got yelled at for eating lunch. Always ask new employers or find out the retention rate!
sh*t happens/
November 14th, 2008 at 8:12 pm
lol… some jobs aren’t made for everyone… you should know that going into the business.. noone ever said alp is just going to come to you… without work, time, effort… and you people with this whole “it cost me to work there so I’m going to give up”… by law a company is not allowed to pay for your license.. and even if they were… why would they? If you’re going to be a weak bunch of individuals and quit anyways… Not to mention the test isn’t easy… and it costs everytime you re-take it.. you will never succeed in something that you don’t have your heart in.. period.. the people in here wouldn’t have success anywhere else… where you have to step out of the box… out of you comfort zone… obviously these were the scared types.. that stuttered in homes.. lacked personality.. no confidence… basically.. a puss…C… lol… you have to have some balls in this business.. I don’t work “really really hard 8a-10p”… liars and cheats? ha… I don’t wear a 2k diamond watch for nothing… and that’s just one of them… you will never succeed in something you don’t believe in.. you have to believe first.. then the passion will come… then it gets easy… but was it always easy? hell no! did I take my bumps and bruises? hell yea.. but after that last union member broke me out of my shell.. it was history… after I delt with him.. I could deal with anyyyyything.. I’m going to make this real easy… three step process… to make it at this company… 1. raise your right hand… 2. reach between your legs.. 3. then grab your nuts and sac up… don’t be a effin baby… you think you can work 30-40hrs and get paid? think again… you have to want money to get it… you idiots thought 75-100k was just going to jump into your lap like “spend me”… clowns… honestly if I had to train any of you weak links… I would’ve made it so hard on you that you would’ve quit before you even sniffed a dollar from a paycheck lol…
November 17th, 2008 at 10:35 am
Anonymous said “I’m going to make this real easy… three step process… to make it at this company… 1. raise your right hand… 2. reach between your legs.. 3. then grab your nuts and sac up… don’t be a effin baby”
This sentence, typed by someone who works for them, just shows the caliber of people that are working at American Income Life.
Aren’t they professional?
P.S. Any a**hole braging about a “2K diamond watch” is an idoit. You sir, have proved me correct in all my observations and assumptions. I’d rather spend 2K and share it with my family and friends…and you show yourself as money-hungry greedy idiot- the type of people who LOVE American Income Life.
I dare you to argue with this.
November 17th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
“I don’t wear a 2k diamond watch for nothing…and that’s just one of them…”
PPPFFFFFF HAHA! I’m picturing a sleazy looking Uncle Eddy from Christmas Vacation. You are why this company sucks and you just exposed yourself of what you really are: A SLIMEBALL.
November 17th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
GUYS!!! it’s so funny that you consider sources that you don’t know AND haven’t seen in person! Good STAY AWAY so that I can make all the money while you all bitch all day about your problems. I never had to pay anything but to get my take a class, get my license, and take my exam. But that’s law you morons! Yeah, I was sceptical as ALL get out! I went around asking peopole in the agency for their experiences. But once i did everything they told me without bitching and being negative, SHEEIT i made my money! It’s too bad that you let strangers tell you how it is. I’ve seen A LOT of people come and go and ya know WHY? Cause THEY DON’T WANNA WORK! THAT WANT MONEY PASSED OFF TO THEM! THEY WANNA GET RICH QUICK but it doesn’t happen that way! They sit on their asses and expect people to knock on their doors begging for insurance. And yes the leads are two three and four years old but atleast they give them to you. Bunch of ungrateful people you are! I’ve made so much money off of four year old leads. It’s how YOU the AGENT present yourself. Some people don’t have people skills and this job ISN;T for any and everyone. Especially excuse makers like you all. one guy in my agency is a FULL TIME STUDENT AND HE MAKES MORE MONEY THAN I DO! They weeks I made nothing were the weeks that I sat on my ass. and I had no one to blame but myself. remember this: THE ONLY PEOPLE THAT DON’T MAKE MONEY ARE: THEY EXCUSE MAKERS, LAZY A**ES, WHINY A**ES, AND PEOPLE THAT SPEND THEIR TIME ON THIS SITE TALKING NEGATIVELY ABOUT A SUCCESSFULL COMPANY. I’ve been with this company for a little over two months and made #2 agent of the month by doing nothing special except what they told me to do. Don’t put your little toe in there and expect big things. Say WHAT THE HELL and dive into it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and you will make MONEY!
November 18th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I received “the call” this morning, in which I was told that based on my resume I would be great for a position with AIL.
I specifically asked if this was for a sales position or not, since I have no interest in a sales position whatsoever. I also do not believe I have the right personality for a sales job (as assesments have proven), nor do I want to work on a commission based income.
I was told that they have many other positions available, including entry level management and several other administrative positions, as they were looking to open more offices in Colorado and needed people to help set those up.
Reassured that I would not be coming in for a sales position, I scheduled an interview. I would have to be in Denver (I live in Fort Collins, about an hour away) at 10:30 am, so not a bad time. I was asked to bring at least 2 copies of my resume, and to dress professionally.
I was rather excited that they had picked out my resume from monster.com - apparently it works after all!
That was until I started doing some research, and I have to say that their company website makes it look very attractive. Although: hint number one should have been that their site mainly focuses on opportunities for sales positions - no other positions.
Next I stumbled onto this site, and a lot of the things I read here sounded very much like my call earlier today.
Having read that even when you come in for a management position - no matter what level - they will want you to do sales and you will always be commission based, but nicely cover up that fact or fail to mention it altogether during “the call” and during interviews, I decided to call the number that I received the call from, and verify a few things.
I got the person on the line, and told them that I had been reading up on AIL, and that what I read everywhere was kind of disturbing. Most importantly, that even as a manager you would end up doing sales, either prior to becoming a manager, or even as a manager. I told him I was calling him to verify whether what I read was true or not.
His answer, was “Yes of course, you will have to do sales. After all, if you are going to manage people, you need to know what they are doing, so you need to do sales.”
I told him that this morning he failed to mention that to me when I asked if this was for a sales position or not, and he said no.
Strictly speaking he has a point: you have to know what your people are doing in order for you to be able to manage them properly. And yes, you are coming in for a management position, not a sales position. However, they do not tell you that prior to getting the management position you do need to do sales - so, it initially is a sales position after all.
Next I told him that in that case I was going to cancel our interview, since I was not looking for or interested in a sales position, simply because I do not want the commission based income, nor do I have the right personality for a sales position.
The reply I got was a few mumbled words which I was unable to decipher, though the intonation spoke volumes, and next thing I know, he hung up on me.
I tried to write this as neutral as possible, so you can make your own decision based on facts, not emotions.
During “the call” they give you just enough information to get you to come in for an interview, and answer any questions as to the nature of the job in such a way that it is hard to find fault in what they say.
They do not lie to you, they’re just not telling you the whole truth - and there is a difference there. You do not find out the specifics until you call them back and ask about it, or when you go in for the interview, apparently.
However, the fact that they are so little forthcoming, and do not reveal all you need to know prior to an interview, does not sit well with me. Also the response to my canceling the interview - in other words, an angry mumble and then hanging up on me - was proof enough for me that I made the right decision in canceling.
Once again, use the above information to your advantage to make your decision.
If you made it onto this site, then you will most likely have some suspicion - as do most people here.
It may not all be true, and some stories may be a little biased, but there is enough here to at least make you think twice.
And remember: where there is smoke, there is usually fire - and there is a lot of smoke here…
November 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Oh yes - and a thank you to everyone here for sharing their experiences and opinions. It saved me money on gas, and it saved me the time - time which I’d much rather waste another way!
November 18th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
[...] American Income Life Insurance - Scam Or Not?[...]
November 18th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
You know after reading this site one thing is clear: You find what you are looking for. If I were wanting more of the same in my life, of always wanting more and being too afraid to reach for it, I guess I would listen.
Why doesn’t AIL advertise? Because they don’t have to. They market labor. Period.
Does AIL pay claims? Yes, they are ranked A+ by AMBEST, which frankly marks them as one of the most stable insurance companies out here.
I know there are good agencies, and there’s bad ones. Kind of like everything else. There’s good Ford dealers, and there’s shady ones.
Thanks for the agents that are upfront and truthful. I appreciate your views in addition to all the negative ones.
I look forward to driving all over this region being truthful, working hard, and making a good living
November 19th, 2008 at 9:37 am
well i got my ‘call’ this morning about an interview tomorrow. I am a 19 year old firefighter, since when do i qualify for a sales job?? i am looking for a job to ‘get me by’ until i get get into nursing school so i really dont want to spend money to get a license when its not what i want to do in life! thanks for the heads up everyone!
November 19th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
This is the routine from AIL. You get a phone call saying that you are a “qualified candidate” for an interview with AIL. They say to bring a copy of your resume and to “dress professionally” because they are a “professional firm”. So I went ahead to the interview since I am not working anyway….I arrive at the place they asked me to fill out an application form… as I was waiting, I looked around…the place seemed like that JUST got the place running…it seemed like they’ve been there for maybe a few years and was not well established quite yet…anyway. I got to have my first interview with a lady and she said that I seem like a perfect fit for the company and IMMEDIATELY asked me if I wanted to go on the 2nd interview. The interview would be for about an hour….so I thought in my head…what the heck..what do i have to lose. In the second interview you will meet with the “manager” and she will show you a SCRIPTED PRESENTATION. let me repeat that SCRIPTED PRESENTATION. In the presentation will tell you about AIL who founded it blah blah blah. and here is the selling point: There is a family of 5. John and Sarah who are married who each make $15/hr. AIL will provide accidental health of a total of $2500 for each family member who is in the hospital..AND Funeral AND MONTHLY income for death of spouse…FOR ONLY $30/wk for the coverage….so this is the AIL selling pitch for your clients…and after that they will tell you what your income potential is. the will tell you at AIL you are supposed to make at least 50K or more in the year or else you should be “FIRED”. HAHAHAHAHAHA. AIL can just kiss my a$$
November 19th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
When it seems to good to be true it probably is…
November 20th, 2008 at 11:38 am
Got my call this morning for an interview. I find it funny that they called me within 12 hours of me applying. Must be desperate?
As Lance said above: “If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.”
That being said, I’m not going to show up for the interview.
November 20th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
I just received a call this morning for an interview next week. I currently live in Phoenix but am relocating to California. I would be driving 5 hours to my interview. I was really excited about going. After reading your comments though, this sounds like a huge scam! I think I’ll skip my interview. Thanks everyone for your comments!
November 21st, 2008 at 10:44 pm
i have been at a.i.l for over 5 years now & am now an s.g.a. i love my career. to those of you currently working over 50 hours a week ( for a.i.l. ) find us we only work 3 days a week. WE DONT CONSIDER IT A SUCCESSFUL WEEK UNLESS WE MAKE OVER $2000. im glad none of you losers posting these comments didn’t come in for an interview with us, we would’ve ran you out of there. i agree with many of you that says this is not for evryone; because it isn’t. we are very picky about who we hire, i generally look for athletes . athletes have much higher self motivation & desire ; and real ones never blame others for thier mistake and failures we just try harder.
in ohio the licensing process is a total of no more $400, and you pay the state not the company. how many people do you know that invests only $400 in themselves & make over $500,000 a year? i have no shame in making more than most doctors & lawyers….. gee how much did they have to ivest in institutions of higher learning? over $250k. im not knocking my doctor or lawyer i have very good ones
. i pray that none of you losers ever come into my office for an interview!! and yes im one of those prospects that was told i was perfect for the job & i am ! if you lack self confidence , are negative , or don’t like people you are in the right place : loserville… but if you are driven an ambitious & want to drive a mozzarati like i do or bmw’s mercedes or lexus’s like my managers than don’t let people that will never amount to anything deceive you.
if randy moss told you of his expierence in oakland, would you let that steer you away from the n.f.l? just like the n.f.l. we do have franchises of the company that does not pull its weight, doesn’t mean they won’t get to where we’re at. as far as rick altig i would love to make $200,000 a wekk & another $750,000 per month in residual income ( keep up the good work rick!) mr. anonymus you are the one who needs to stop manipulating people & just be a man & say you failed!!!
as far as our hiring practices we hire people not paper & most of the time we know when we have met the next allstar! we have no way of knowing how good you are or aren’t until we meet face to face. as far as the group goes , that is done because we do alot of interviewing weekly & don’t have enough time to spend with an hour with each good prospect. prospects have to prove that we should give them a chance not the other way around.. yes we do have an abundance of leads to see at all times, our relationships with our unions is unflappable! i always have been received with warmth when calling through my lead pack & so have my agents. i keep hearing some of you complaining about managers recei ving overides off thier agents, tell me a business that doesn’t. what did the founder of mcdonalds say? : ”i sell franchises not burgers”. i heard someone speaking of a.i.g we don’t need $85 billion from the gov’t to bail us out, primerica , we dont want our new reps bringing in a list of thier family & friends, aflac we don’t have to walk and pound on doors. good luck to you all getting drinking some optimism instead of pessimism.
November 22nd, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Ok so if this company is NOT a scam company then why does other companies and I am talking abourt major companies (one being located in Fredericksburg VA) DOES NOT charge a fee to work there, they train you give you a set schedule, do not insist that you cold call by going door to door so DO NOT TELL me that in order to get something you must first give something I have also been contacted several times by this company and although I keep spamming them they just use different e-mail acct. I have reported this to yahoo hopefully they will take care of it
November 24th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Simply the best writes, “im glad none of you losers posting these comments didn’t come in for an interview with us, we would’ve ran you out of there.” REAL professional…every time an AIL employee has the CHANCE to talk about how “reputable” their company is- they ruin it by saying something so completely unprofessional and immature!
Simply the best also writes, “as far as our hiring practices we hire people not paper & most of the time we know when we have met the next allstar!” we have no way of knowing how good you are or aren’t until we meet face to face.”-
Then why, face to face, did you try to hire me for sales, by telling me over and over again that it was a management training position (the word “sales” was NEVER mentioned) when I specifically said I don’t want a sales job?!
Someone from AIL please give a professional answer.
I’m in HR and let me tell you- if I EVER wrote on a blog, calling people “losers” or saying that I was trying to “run candidates out” or if I ever said, “I’m going to make this real easy… three step process… to make it at this company… 1. raise your right hand… 2. reach between your legs.. 3. then grab your nuts and sac up… don’t be a effin baby”
…Not only would I be fired, but my company would get a horrible reputation,
and nobody wants to work for unprofessional, immature people- which is what AIL employees seem to be from their posts on this board. Look at every post written by an AIL employee and you’ll see I’m right.
It’s funny, whenever I post facts, no AIL employee can ever fight back because I’M RIGHT!!!
November 24th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
I haven’t had this much fun researching a company that contacted me since Primerica! I thank AIL for that, at the very least.
The condescending tone that many AIL employees take on this blog and many other forums I’ve scoured is certainly not appreciated, but if bemoaning the supposed laziness of others and grandstanding about cars and dollars is the pinnacle of life, then I think I wouldn’t be happy with the successful employees, anyways. I have heard so many different facts on both sides of the coin, but I’m more inclined to agree with the disenfranchised, here. I’ve heard the insurance coverage is great and I’ve heard that it’s baloney. I’ve heard that reputable insurance companies will pay for testing and licensing and I’ve heard that none do. I’ve heard that this is the opportunity of a lifetime and I’ve heard that this job will empty your own pockets and leave you high and dry.
I don’t believe everything I read, but I believe in people. I know that AIL employees are just like the rest of us and want a steady income to support their life and happiness, however, the level of disrespect I see coming from people that support this company is appalling. I’m not passing on my interview tomorrow because of the hard work that would be involved, but the personal and financial investments that may yield no results and leave me worse off than where I started. Also, the representation from AIL is absolutely unscrupulous and disgusting. A bit of PR repair may be called for, here.
We all need to earn a living, but we don’t need to act so callously to our fellow man! I wish, to all of those looking for employment, the best of luck and that certain AIL employees (not all that I’ve heard from on the forums, mind you) would simply do your job to the best of your ability and not bemoan others for acknowledging an obviously besmirched reputation.
November 25th, 2008 at 11:51 pm
Let me let you all in on a little secret…If you have not figured it all out by now. ANY, SO CALLED COMPANY WHO CONTACTS YOU ABOUT A ” JOB OFFER” IS BOGUS!!!
In this day and age of our economic state of disaster, what legit company is going to contact you ( myself included ), because of our on-line resume with our unsurpassed
qualifications is not a legit company!!! Do yourself a favor and JUST DELET IT !!! Don’t wast your valuable time going to the interview. Or, for that matter even researching them.
Trust me they are all B/S. Spend your valuable time in preparation for the interviews to the company’s that YOU in fact applied with.
Good luck to you all on your job hunt !!!!!!
p.s Keep this in mind. When a ” REAL ” recruiter contacts you, It might just be worth checking it out first before you delete it.
November 26th, 2008 at 10:41 am
Much respect to all of you on this site, but I have just this to say to everyone who reads this looking for information. I am going today on my second interview. I’ve been a Marine Drill Instructor, a Deputy Sheriff, and a Truck Driver over my years. I have a BA in Business and I’m working on my MBA. In business, whether it’s working for yourself or for someone else, you have to act like you are in business. If you listen to NEGATIVE people you will get NEGATIVE results. If you listen to POSITIVE people you will get POSITIVE results. In the world of success, you have to make the leap….or you will never know. Even if you made the leap, you must still flap your arms, work hard, do something to stay ahead. A bird doesn’t just leap out of the nest and fly without flapping the hell out of it’s wings until it just becomes second nature. It’s the difference between fast food and a food store. You can make your own food or eat what someone else feeds you.
I’m going to go for it. I have friends who work for Farmers and AIG and they say it’s the same thing there. Ask those who work in real estate, it’s the same thing there. Commission work is all about hustle. Make 10 call and maybe sell none, make 20 and maybe sell one or two. Make nothing….and you will get nothing. Do your research and make up your own mind.
Only a winner can tell you about winning. A looser can only tell you about loosing.
November 26th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Good tips, RCD. I know a lot of us are in dire situations and it’s important to keep a cool head.
Initially, I thought Craigslist was the Mecca of job search sites, but I’ve found that unless you use some common sense, that it can be the largest job scam site out there. If there isn’t a local number, a link to a reputable site, or real details about the job, then it’s probably not worthwhile. Postings that list high hourly wages/salaries and aren’t looking for specific skills is probably a waste of time. Postings that link you to career search sites that you haven’t heard of (anything not Monster, Careerbulder, etc.) is going to jam your email with more bogus spam than that Monty Python sketch. Anything that sounds too good to be true is the case, more so now than ever. Just make sure that there is an authentic-sounding job description, real contact info and that it’s an opportunity involved with a reputable company.
Sad as it is, I’ve also found that you may have to lower your standards when applying. Jobs I turned down months ago are the source of painful regret, now. A lot of us are out there and even entry level positions are going to over-qualified folks. Personally, I’m in the process of hearing back on a position that pays less than any job I’ve held since 2003 and an additional part time gig that will help me pocket some extra cash.
I didn’t attend my AIL interview and don’t regret it at all, nor were they surprised to hear of me canceling my interview. This isn’t the sort of job that many of us laid off/new recruits are looking for, so please don’t make a mistake out of greed or desperation. Keep looking and hopefully your hard work will pay off. Best of luck gang, keep those spirits high and try your best!
November 27th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Can someone with Altig please explain how your SGA is any different than the others? It is my understanding that every SGA uses the same exact systems, training, scripts, work schedules, etc. I’ve heard many Altig people acknowledge recruiting problems and other issues, but they always follow by saying “Our agency doesn’t do things that way.” But the reality is they are all exactly the same. SGAs pass down the same exact business model they received when they started with the company so if you’ve seen one SGA you’ve seen them all. Someone prove me wrong.
November 30th, 2008 at 11:11 am
Hi, Can anybody please let me know I paid 375$ for my exam L.L.Q.P. My Provincial Exam 2 Dec. Its worth going for the exam or not. Or is their any way i can get my money back, because my LLQP exam was on 26 Nov. Burnaby, B.C Canada unit no 201.
December 1st, 2008 at 7:32 pm
The emails and calls I got sounded fishy and I finally got through to the
“recruiter” and drilled him on the details.
They are not looking to “hire” so much as they are looking for people to
“buy into” their commission-based, multi-level marketing program; this one selling insurance instead of soap, but same idea.
Trolling job boards for “leads” for their “employees” is dishonest. Especially since my background is everything BUT sales, and very specific. When I asked about what kind of job it would be, they said “mid-level to senior-level” management, after I told them I had up to 500 people reporting to me. Sounds great! But when I pressed
about what kind of job, etc. it became clear this was a sales job. I asked who the other employees would be, and the answer was that this would be other “suckers” who bought into the program that I brought in.
If you like Amway, and want to sell insurance, perhaps this is a useful endeavor.
But if you’re contacted by “American Income” for a “job offer based on the resume you submitted” … that you don’t remember submitting … run for the hills!
December 1st, 2008 at 10:27 pm
WOW. I thought it was suspicious. never considered it. Hung up on caller. Decided to google them for curiosity. My first instincts were right. i am a 30 year experienced HVAC Project manager making low 100k range and they called me from my monster Resume. How do they figure I am a fit to sell Insurance. I yell at contractors,architects and Engineers for a living in Job site Language. STAY FAR AWAY.
December 1st, 2008 at 10:34 pm
SIMPLy THE BEST.
Please an idiot can see through you.
I am sure every one who posted on this site can get ther job and make 500k a year.
at what point is the whole world working there and the middle class now starts at 500k and a loaf of bread is now 18 bucks.
I am sure plenty fall victim to u out of desperation. SHAME.
Going to forward this link to friend at PA attorney General Office.
Hopefully they can be forced to stop deception.
December 2nd, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Today A WOMAN CALL ME WITH UNKNOWN CALLER NUMBER, SO I CAN CALL HER BACK, SHE TOLD ME SHE IS CALLING FROM AMERICAN INCOME AND MENTION SOMETHING ABOUT CREDIT UNION,
SHE TOLD ME THAT HIS BOSS SAW MY RESUME IN CAREERBUILDER AND MONSTER.COM AND WANT AN INTERVIEW WITH ME, I ASK HER WHAT KIND OF COMPANY OR JOB IS , AND SHE TOLD ME ABOUT CREDIT UNIONS COMPANY NEVER SHE MENTION IS FOR INSURANCE BECAUSE I DONT HAVE EXPERIENCE AND I DONT WANT TO WASTE MY TIME LIKE THAT, KNOCKIN PEOPLE DOOR ALL DAY AND DON T HAVE MY WEEKEND OFF
SHE SAY THAT I WUALIFIED FOR BE A ENTRY LEVEL MANAGEMENT WETHEVER SO I ASK HER IF THEY READ MY RESUME BECAUSE I DONT HAVE THE EDUCATION FOR SUCH A POSITION SHE SAID IS OK
THEY WILL TRAINING ME , NOW THAT I READ ALL THIS CLAIMS I BELIEVE IS A BS COMPANY THAT IN FACT THEY SALE INSURANCE BUT THEY LIE THE PEOPLE IGNORANT LIKE ME AND MANY BECAUSE THEY SHOULD REQUEST THAT YOU HAVE A INSURANCE LICENSE BEFORE THEY CAN BE ABLE TI HIRE YOU AND THAT YOU HAVE SALES EXPERIENCE IN THE STREET
MANY STUPID PEOPLE LIKE MIKE AND OTHER JOE DEFENDE THIS COMPANY, BUT THEY ARE PIECE OF SHITTY PEOPLE BECAUSE THEY KNOW WHAT GOING ON HERE AND THEY SUCK THE PEOPLE MONEY SO THEY CAN GET THEIR SALARIES LIKE THAT
THEY WANT YOUUUUU TO PAY 700 DOLLARS FOR TRAINING COME ON, PLEASE COMPANIES PAY YOU THE HOURS YOU ARE IN TRAINING , THIS PEOPLE DONT MAKE YOU FILL ANY IRS DOCUMENTS SO YOU CAN DECLARE YOUR TAXES AFTER, THEY DONT PAY YOU EVEN AT THE END OF THE MONTH, IS JUST COMISSION YOU DONT SALE NO MONEY
THEY WANT TO GIVE TRAINING? THEY SHOULD CHANGE THEIR NAME AND NOT TO BE INSURANCE COMPANY THEY SHOULD CHANGE IOT TO BE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE OR SOMETHING LIKE THTA IF THEY REALLY NEED THE MONEY FOR EDUCATE PEOPLE I BELIEVE THEY ARE IN THE WRONG FIELD, BUT OBVIUSLY THIS IS A FRAUD COMPANY WHO CHEAT A LOT PEOPLE WHO IS WILLING TO FIND A JOB IN THIS DIFICULT ECONOMIC SITUATION
BUT I WONT GO TO THE INTERVIEW BECAUSE BEFORE A FRIEND OF MINE PASS THE SAME STUPID SITUATION BUT IN THAT CASE THE COMPANY SELL SOFTWARE OF INTERNET , THIS PEOPLE USE TO RENT COMMERCIAL OFFICE IN GOOD AREAS, OR RENT PLACES IN GOOD HOTELS BUT HOTEL DONT TAKE RESPONSABILITY OF WHAT THEY ARE CHEATING PEOPLO OR NOT
THEY MAKE YOU BELIEVE YOU ARE THE GOOD DEAL, GROUP PEOPLE LISTEN A STUPID PERSON AT THE FRONT WHO SHOWING A VIDEO, A MAKE YOU BELIEVE YOU WILL MAKE HUNDRED OF THOUSAND DOLLAR
COME OPEN YOU EYES PEOPLE YOU DONT HAVE EDUCATION OR EXPERIENCE IN INSURANCE OR SALE YOU WONT MAKE SUCH INCOME, WHEN LOOK FOR A JOB YOU CALL THEM, DONT SUBMIT YOU RESUMES IN CAREERBUILDER OR MONSTER ,COM WHERE THER CAN SE YOU NAME ADDRESS, EMAILS, PHONE NUMBER AND ALL UNIVERSITY WHERE YOU STUDY , EDUCACION, SKILLS EVERITHING THIS PEOPLE GOT YOU IS DANGEROUS TO PASTE OR UPLOAD YOU INFORMATION LIKE THAT IS BETTER TO RESEARN IN THOS WEB PAGES BUT FAX TO THE COMPANY YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUU CHOSE TO WORK
DONT RECEIVE UNKNOWN PHONE CALLS FROM PEOPLE AND COMPANIES YOU DONT EVEN KKNOW OR EXPECT, THIS COMPANY HAVE LAW SUIT IN DIFERENT STATES FOR FRAUD PEOPLE AND TAKE THEIR MONE IN “”"TRAINING” BS YOU WANT TRAINING OF SOMETHING BETTER THAN THAT GO TO A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY ACREDITED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, WHY DO YOU HAV ETO PAYS THIS SHITTY PEOPLE FOR BEEIN TRAINING AND BE PAID AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS AND BECAUSE YOU NEED A REAAAALLLL JOB YOU HAVE TO QUIT FOLLOW A LAW SIUT COST MORE THAN 15,000 DOLLAR AND TAKE MOST OF THE TIME 1 OR 2 YEARS IS EXPENSIVE THAT WHY THIS PEOPLE DOING THIS
THE FBI, CONSUMER PROTECTION IS FOLLOWING THIS PEOPLE TO GET THE CEO O HEAD WHO COMMITING THIS KINS OF FRAUDS NOT ONLY TO EMPLOYEES TO PEOPLE WHO HAVE INSURANCE COVERAGE
IF YOU LIKE TO VISIT PEOPLE HOME AND WASTING HOURS GASOLINE GO THIS COMPANY WHO WILL EXPLOTE YOU AND AFTER YOU GET TIRED TO WAIT FOR A PAYMENT IS FINE IS YOUR CHOICE
BUT IF YOU WANT A REAL PAYCHECK AT THE END OF THE WEEK HOW THE LAW OF CT GUARRANTE AND RIGHT OF UNEMPLOYMENT TOO, SO GET A REAL JOB MAYBE YOU WILL MAKE 250 OR 400 DOLLAR A WEEK BUT IS REAL MONEY, LESS HOURS, YOU DONT NEED TO BEG PEOPLE TO BUY A POLICY INSURANCE FOR ANOTHER SHITTY PEOPLE GET THE MONEY AND AFTER DONT PAY YOU FOR YOUR WORK
I WILL BE THE COMMENT 192, AND ARE COMPLAINT FOR DIFERRENT STATES, THIS PEOPLE ARE VERY RAT, IN THE NEWS I LISTEN ABOUT SIMILARITY LIKE CREDIT CARDS, THEY TAKE MONEY FROM YOU BANK ACCOUNT AND THEY NEVER SEND ANY CREDIT CARDS, OR INCLUSIVE THEY SALE ARTICLES OR COMPUTER FINALLY THEY SEND PEOPLE ANOTHER THINK BUT THEY PAY BY PHONE, THIS IS A SHIT PEOPLE WHO WILL GO TO HELL AND FINALLY BEFORE THAT WILL GO TO JAIL JAJJAJAJAJJAJAJAJJAJAJAJJ
PEOPLE WHO READING TAROT CARDS AND STUPID THING LIKE THAT CAME INTO THE NEWS TO BECAUSE DEFRAUD A LOT PEOPLE AND THEY MOVING STATE BE STATE CHEATING PEOPLE AND TAKING HUNDREDS AND THOUSAND IN SOME CASE OF PEOPLE STUPID WHO BELIEVE IN THIS BS THINK, PLESE
OPEN YOU EYES, IF YOU WORK IN A GOOD COMPANY YOU WILL HAVE A GUARRANTEED PAY CHEK EVERY WEEK, IF YOU STUDY HARD YOU WILL GET A GOOD LIFE STYLE, PEOPLE WITH HIGH SCHOOL EDCUATION DONT MAKE 75K A YEAR IS RIDICULIES, THINK DONT LET PEOPLE WASTE YOU TIME WHILE YOU CAN INVESTED STUDING OR WORKING IN A COMPANY OF PRESTIGE INCLUSIVE WORKING IN MC DONALS IS BETTER THAT THIS SHITTY COMPANY AMERICAN INCOME LIFE INSURANCE
December 2nd, 2008 at 9:34 pm
This is really big scam. They are charging you for test without 375$+375$ and they are not going to pass any body. And you are going to loose at least 375$ just think if every day they have 2 people are paying 375$ for exam than how much they are making this is the only job they are doing. Just Imagine I went their for interview I did 2 interviews and one exam. Now again today I received an email for an interview:
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December 3rd, 2008 at 8:56 am
Thank you guys so much. These ppl called me for an interview and I found out that this place was not even on the busline. I asked them questions about pay, (for the account executive position), and i was told that i could make from $50-$75,000 a yr. I was also told that most of my fairly easy questions could only be answered in the interview. I scheduled it for 2 days after they initially called me. Something told me to just look them up online so that i could tell them a little info about their company during the interview, figuring that would get me hired because a company likes to hear about themselves from a potential employee, and lord behold i find that this place has this kind of rep. I was about to pay a lot to be driven over there and i am very glad that i read about this place. I dont want to work for ppl that have this kind of reputation, because there’s no telling how they would treat me. I dont have extra money to waste and i feel that if you are to get a job, you shouldnt be tricked into it and be scammed out of the only money you may have left to live off of.
December 3rd, 2008 at 11:20 am
I received a call from American Income the other day. I called them this morning at the same time checking them out on computer. It was a quick conversation…..wanting to know where I live and she told me we have offices in Chicago. She wanted to know how far I would travel and stated to her “NO CAR” which her response was that I needed one and that to call her back when I got one ???? Never will. Anyway, read all the comments and certainly will not have anything to do with this company. Where would one have $700 if they have been out of a job for over a year and sales certainly aren’t for me even if my title would have been “BENEFIT REPRESENTATIVE” traveling to different companies regarding wmployees benefits. THANKS BUT NO THANKS !!
December 6th, 2008 at 12:29 am
Employee Benefits Representative is the title of the job until you walk into the office…..it means tell union employees that one of their union benefits is to have you try to sell them life insurance, mooch canned food, and ask for the names and addresses of your family members!
December 6th, 2008 at 10:39 am
I worked there 2 for years and I’m out of there, thank god. I became a liar and a brainwasher like all of them. Anyway, if you guys have any specific questions about the company you can email me at [email protected]. Dave
December 8th, 2008 at 1:27 am
Please do not give them your credit card and driving lic.
I lost 312$+393$+393$ Credit card company said three more attempts, I cancelled my card. I am talking about office in Burnaby, Subway is down stairs.
How we can stop other people can we do any police complaint or what they send one of my friend togive exam in side the kitchen and they have camares and phone junction their.
I want to help other people, I want to ask you Dave did you make any money in 2 years or not.
December 8th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
AIL saw my resume on the the net and called me for an interview. I wasn’t looking for anything remotely similar to selling insurance nor did I have any background related to it, so I was suspiscious.
They are obviously bottom feeders, trying to take advantage of people struggling to make a living.
Thank you everyone for your input!
December 9th, 2008 at 11:50 am
I busted my ass for several months with them, and was actually making OK money traveling around the state and selling insurance. There would be OK weeks and there would be really good weeks as far as pay goes.
I was disappointed, though, once I learned more about the management. I quit working for them along with a bunch of other people because the management’s practices were amoral, unethical, and sometimes illegal.
December 9th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
As an AIL agent just moving into management, I find it hilarious about all these so-called “complaints”.
Everything about this job is exactly described in the interview. I agree with those of you that aren’t happy with the recruiters not telling much about the job on the phone. The reason being is that they get bonuses based on how many people showed up.
For some reason, commission jobs are viewed negatively, even though I feel EVERY job should be commission based. I am 100% honest with all the union members I see, and do not use any of the so-called “propoganda” that others here have mentioned.
This is the best package deal you can get, and it helps out millions of families throughout the world. There are NO complaints from policy owners. That is how you rate a company. Not from the disgruntled employees who didn’t want to put in the work to be successful.
December 10th, 2008 at 12:30 am
I will go ahead and answer or help answer most of the common complaints/issues on this board.
The licensing fees that you have to pay DO NOT go to AIL in any way. Here you pay $130 for the online licensing course (separate company), you pay $100 to take the state exam (state Dept. of Insurance), and you pay $200 to actually apply for the Life, Accident, and Health licenses, which are required by law to have.
AIL sees $0 out of that process. I’m not sure how people can really complain about having to pay this, because if it was free, then why wouldn’t everyone do it? If a real estate license was free, or company paid for, I would go get that license right now. Or if any other industry gave out a free license, I would sign up right away. Why not, right?
I’ve worked in pharmacy where you have to pay to be licensed. I’ve worked in other jobs where you have to pay for the certification/licensing. There really can be no complaint about this, because it is a standard of about 90% of industries.
December 10th, 2008 at 12:35 am
As far as the recruiting/”MLM” talk going on….
The recruiters at our agency, and throughout the company get bonuses based on how many people show up for an interview, how many people are hired, etc. Like I said before, if you knew that for every 20 people that showed up, you got more money, I strongly believe that you would try and get as many people in as possible.
Each agency signs up for a recruiting system with Monster, CareerBuilder, HotJobs, and most of the other resume websites out there. It filters out the resumes by location, and location only.
The system does not show any objectives or what people are looking for in a position. The recruiters contact everyone about a position because if you have the resume on the internet, you are assumed to be looking for a position.
If you don’t have sales experience, it doesn’t matter because not many people in the business have sales experience. Myself I worked in retail and pharmacy. No sales whatsoever. But yet I took the job, and am quite successful at it.
Once again, this is how our specific agency does things. I cannot speak for others throughout the country, but it is certainly the exception rather than the rule.
December 10th, 2008 at 1:25 am
No cold calling or prospecting whatsoever.
This is what ultimately attracted me to this position and this company. The PR department goes to a Union Rep or Business Agent and explains our products and what we do. I know this because I have been out with the PR people when they had one of these meetings.
If the union decides to work with us then we send out a letter on the union’s letterhead that basically says you have some new benefits being provided at no cost through AIL, the only 100% union insurance company. In addition the representative WHO CONTACTS YOU will deliver Child Safe Kits which are jointly sponsored by the International Union of Police Associations and a Health Services Discount Card which can save up to 50% on various things.
WHEN THE AIL REPRESENTATIVE CONTACTS YOU, they will also discuss some supplemental benefits that you may qualify for. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have at that time. Please return the enclosed postage paid card within 10 days. There is no b.s. in that letter at all.
When I meet with a union member I always have a copy of the original letter, and I basically follow along with what the letter says I am doing. No lying, no high pressure sales pitch. If they don’t need insurance, if they are adequately covered, I don’t force them to buy. If they just have the coverage through their employer, and another term policy…they are not adequately covered. Most of the families I see have a need for this product.
If your agency does this, then something is wrong with the way you are being trained, and I would suggest moving agencies. In the 6 months I have been working for the company, I have had one policy cancel on me, and that was a single mother canceling her son’s policy which was costing her $10.00/month.
December 10th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
If your firm’s managers/recruiters/etc. are compensated based upon how many people show up to an interview, why not just call people and tell them that they won free money that they must come pick up in your office, rather than misrepresent a job opportunity?
In either case, both are lies, but one’s much more enticing.
December 10th, 2008 at 5:47 pm
P.S. I’m surprised that no one has yet mentioned the “personality test” that is administered.
The one where “math skills are minimally important” and which contains a significant amount of questions regarding a person’s perspective on adherence to authority, directions/instructions, regulations, laws, and values/morals!
December 11th, 2008 at 12:12 am
ER….we don’t even look at the personality test.
It is something to keep the interviewees busy while sitting there and waiting for the group interview to begin. It is a joke, I will gladly admit that.
December 11th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
CJ:
Your comment regarding, “That is how you rate a company. Not from the disgruntled employees who didn’t want to put in the work to be successful,” just further cements to other people how AIL views its employees and policy owners.
Every one of the posts here from someone working at AIL always says the same thing. “Didn’t want to put in the work, didn’t work hard enough, too soft,” Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah.”
Just because someone stopped working there does not make them unsuccessful, nor does it mean they didn’t put in the work to be successful. Most of the former complaints by employees stem from being lied to and unethical hiring and training practices.
Additionally, a companies claims paying ability is only one of the deciding factors that ultimately gives that company its rating. Employee retention/turnover is a big part of it too. That would explain why Standard and Poors recently decided to DOWNGRADE AIL’s rating to “sub-par.”
So all that crap you guys give everyone regarding being rated A+ by AM Best really does mean anything. You would probably be better off telling potential employees that over the last four years, you contracted with over 10,000 new agents, yet only saw an increase in agent count over that same time of around 200. Yes, that’s right, you hired 10,000 and only about 200 stayed.
Tell that during your interview process…oh wait, that’s right you can’t because the sorry excuse for and “HR” department gets bonused off of body count.
All the best.
December 12th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Some Nazi soldiers left the party/service. Were they also “lazy” and not willing to work hard enough?
December 13th, 2008 at 10:38 am
i’m a very proud employee of American Income.
No company is going to pay you 60k a year to “show up” for work.. there is a little elbow grease involved, and not everyone is cut out for it. I only paid for my study course and my exam.
December 15th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
I dont care what you say American income life is a scam company.
I recieved a call and asked to attend a meeting. invited, was told to wear bussiness professional. when i attended and interview, took time from my job it was a group interview of 8 of us and as i sat there and waited a man came in very well dressed and very well spoken, he began to tell us about american income life about there products and how great the company is.
Well it then turned into a very annoying blabber session of how this company was the best and that was it, little did these people know i have sold insurance for 7 years licensed in both life & health and property and casuality and work for a very well know multi billion dollar company anmed state farm.
Now the only reason i stated that was because almost every one has heard of this company i still work for them. But i thought it would be quite interesting to see what the compition was all about.
so anyway during this meeting the well dressed man had finished i raised my hand and asked him a simple question that any one selling insurance should know, he was dumbfounded and just stated wow are you smart dont get ahead of us yet.
so i asked another simple question and still he could not answer the question he just dodged it. i stood up and excused myself, when they asked my why i was leaving, i simply put it if you cant answer two simple questions that i have about the insurance industry i should have your job and you should be sitting here.
and then 5 other poeple in the interview stood up and said we express his same views.
December 15th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Please excuse my typing and bad grammmer i did not have much time to write what i would have liked.
and on the last note to anyone person that would like more information or things to watch for please let me know.
and to comments on some of the postings about losers not attending the interview or willing to work hard enough. some of us in life just understand what a chump is and that would be the person who attended the second meeting.
knowledge is a wonderful thing to have.
December 15th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
[...] AMERICAN INCOME LIFE INSURANCE- SCAM OR NOT? [...]
December 16th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
I too received a call this morning.
I am grateful I had opportunity to read many comments on this site. I will attend the interview this morning just to satisfy my own curiosity. I am glad I will be attending though with information.
Thanks for the heads up. I will let you know how it went. I am apparently being interviewed for a manager position. We’ll see!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Wow, wow, wow!!! I am an entreprenuer by nature and was contacted by AIL about an hour ago. I knew after two questions back to the “recruiter” that this company was not for me.
I have a seriously tough time respecting a company that has to use subtrefuge when seeking an interview. I used to own a personnel agency and thus have years of experience in the hiring process. An “interview” is a bilateral meeting between two people for the expressed purpose of seeing if there is a common culture (first and foremost) and the requisite skill sets to fulfill each sides’ expectations of performance.
There MUST be a level of trust established for the interviewer or interviewee to have any faith that what is being presented is real/legitimate. If you can’t trust what one is telling you, where the heck do you go from there?! Additionally, having the hiring person NOT making the initial call is a VERY BAD sign. You are part of a “cattle call.”
What were my two questions? 1) “I have a couple different versions of my resume out there, which one do you have?” To which he stammered and said that he was not the one who reviewed it. That told me all I needed to know.
I then asked, “If it’s not too much trouble, could I speak to the person who did review it?” I don’t accept interview requests without a thorough understanding of A) Who the company is, B) Exactly what the position’s qualifications and duties are, and C) The expressed nature of the compensation.
He again paused and admitted that the person was not available. I prompty stated that I was not available either then! How unprofessional to ask for me to come interview from 50 miles away with no allowance for qualifiying the opportunity.
Many of the disgruntled on this site would do well to incorporate this technique into their job search process.
You see, this strategy is a professional way to establish mutual respect between the parties. When I was doing hiring searches for my best positions, the initial phone contact that insisted in not wasting his/her time interviewing in person was invariably a high-value recruit. One that isn’t going to interview just for the sake of it. That’s called “spraying and praying.”
Just because I had a minute, I googled AIG to confirm my suspicions. Wow, was my intuition spot on!
I do have a couple questions for our AIG defenders/employees: I am 48 and have been both self employed and regularly employed by some major sales corporations and most were happy and fruitful experiences.
1) WHAT THE DEVIL ARE YOU “HAPPY” AIG FOLKS DOING SURFING A COMPLAINT SITE ABOUT YOUR OWN COMPANY?
2) WHY ARE THE MAJORITY OF YOUR REPLIES AIMED TOWARD DENIGRATING THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT AIG’S OBVIOUSLY SHADY BUSINESS PRACTICES, RATHER THAN DEFENDING THE PRACTICES THEMSELVES?
Is it maybe because those practices can’t be defended? I fear so, as none of you (current kool-aid drinkers) have had the guts to admit that “getting a sales appointment under the guise of ‘reviewing/updating’ your benefits package” is about as low as it gets.
I am certain that you AIG people didn’t start out thinking you were going to fall in to this pit of delusion. You are probably fine people outside of work. But I will offer you this: If you are successful at AIG, it is either because you have what it takes to be a professional, high-producing sales rep., or you are a crook.
If you qualify as the former, please use your incredible God-given talents for a better purpose. You can make a ton almost anywhere with that talent.
However, if you are the latter, I pray for your soul. You are symbolic of everything that is wrong with the this great country.
Take care all and have a Wonderful Christmas!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
I attended the interview today. My experience was very similar to many I read here.
I was approached by them via my resume on edmontonjobshop.ca with the idea of going to work for them. They informed me that they had an openning for a sales position as well as a management position. I told them I would be interested in management as that is where my experience lies.
I went in for the so called second interview; lasted about five minutes, and then was told that I passed that phase and would I be available for the next.
I was then led into a room with several other people to listen to a speaker and watch a video. I noticed there was nobody else around, no work being done. That office appeared to be solely for hiring purposes only.
I left the video session before it was done (I informed them before hand that I had a meeting later that afternoon); was approached on my way out and informed the person that I would not be interested. I determined that anybody who is hired there starts as a salesperson and would have to work their way up.
I understand that these types of businesses are everywhere, but what I was offended by was being mislead in the first place about what type of work I was being interviewed for.
I had been a) in an interview, and b) an hour watching a video, and I still was not informed as to what the position was, Although, everything I heard pointed towards a sales position.
I went willingly because I had to see for myself, but I feel sorry for the person who goes there unaware. It would be a huge waste of time.
December 17th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Made my apllication out exclusivley for a Customer Service position, note sales and not management.
Just got back from my less than 5 minute inerview. Was informed at the interview that the position was to let existing customers know about the benefits their company had provided them and then to sell additional benefits to those folks. They said I could continue and set up a appointment this Friday for a presentation.
I agreed to see them on Friday. Hey !!! A free sideshow who could pass that up??? Knowing that I will have to use my own car to make sales call is no appealing.
They are going to $hit when I tell them I will making those calls on a motorcycle. Before I left, was informed by the fast talking interviewer I needed to show up Friday wearing a tie. She says “you know, dress for sucess.”
Going Friday without a tie, maybe they can loan me a clip-on
December 17th, 2008 at 10:58 pm
Wow! I am so glad I found this web site. I have an interview with them tomorrow that I will not even bother to cancel.
Heck, sounds like there will be so many people there they would never know the difference. I think it would be a waste of whatever it costs to dry clean my interview suit.
I heard exactly the same spiel. Blah, blah, blah, monster.com (yes, within a few days after I had just posted), no insurance or sales background on resume, was told that the sales would just come to me and I would have to just make sure that the paperwork was done properly.
I think the old saying is true: If something sounds too good to be true . . . I think they are taking advantage of people in this bad economy.
I’ve been a professional for 30 years . . . no way I’m am falling for this mess. I was actually just thinking of it as a practice interview, but I would have been darned peeved to get there and find some kind of cattle-call scenario.
Thanks to all who have posted here to warn the unaware.
December 19th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
I received an e-mail with a number and name and title.
I checked the company and the phone number matched the one for the only office located in our state (60 miles away from where I live). So then I called and asked what location they were hiring for. I was told either here or there. They where “”expanding into my area.”
The guy that I spoke with wanted to know if I had any management experience and if I was currently working. I said yes to both. But I also told him that I was trying to change my field to something other than sales and retail management and planned to start classes the first of the year and asked if there were other positions that were being offered.
He said yes to everything. I am always leary of being offered a great job because of all the screwwing that I have taken in the past year from employers.
I found this site and was shocked. I read and read but the only peaple and positions that are discussed is sales agnets and managers.
Has anyone worked or interviewed for a different possition? Clerical, mail room, data intry or anything?
I was going to go to my interview aiming for something along the lines of office work because that is what I want to take classes for (as I am going back to school to change my carreer path).
I may still go to the interview just to see if the only thing they want is sales. I have been on interviews that I have ended abruptly by saying that if this is strickly commission then I do not want it.
I am not afraid to work hard for my money but I will not work for nothing. And if people don’t have it to spend then no matter how much they want it and no matter how hard you work you won’t get paid!
It is just too risky with today’s economy…
December 20th, 2008 at 7:23 am
As a former “Independent Rep” for AIL I’ll tell you my story and opinion of what I know about the company from 3 years ago.
I came to work for this company after having my L&H License for 3 years and worked for well rounded company. I left there due to growing family needs that required my attention.
After my situation had improved, I interviewed with AIL, was hired and within three weeks, I left the company. The first week was learning there sales system and products,with some joint appointment work. The second week was out in the field with a manager and on my own.
When hired I didn’t have to pay any up front fees, as I told them I simply won’t, so my sales manager assumed the cost. They had leads for me and set appointments for me, all I needed to do was go out and close the deal. They give you a sales pitch you must follow.
All sounded great to me. No mess just go in for the close. As a 9 year sales professional at the time I thought what could be better? Sure the 1099 pay would be different, no benefits offered but hey I could by my sell myself my own Health Insurance plan, get a commission for it and write off the expense as a business expense. Sweet! Or so I thought.
Reality of working for AIL is:
1. I was a captive agent of sorts, (couldn’t be signed with any other Insurance company even one that didn’t compete with there products) No Annuity sales! Why? So I spend my time selling their stuff only. Bye bye cheap health insurance. Captive contract without the fringe benefits.
2. Preset appointments started an average of 80 to 120 miles from my house one way. And I had to go the the office everyday to pick up my maps, 60 miles away, couldn’t you just fax them, email? Oh no we want you to come in they said.
After reaching the first appointment, you soon realized that you had 10 mins to spend in this house before you had to leave for you next appointment to reach it on time. Sometimes there wasn’t anytime and I had to cancel or reschedule 2 even 3 appointment due to this fact.
After you rescheduled the appointment you pray that the call center notice it and tries to put you close to it. I asked to set my own they says, sorry not right now you can’t. Why? They didn’t trust me to, like I didn’t need to make money.
3. Their script does work, people will buy from you. I have seen it. What they are buying form you and why they are buying is a mystery to both me and the clients.
You see the sales script is worded in such a way as to not seem like your buying Life Insurance in fact they don’t even say those words ever. The client is being told that in the even of their deaths all a loved one needs to do is give this peace of paper to a Funeral home and its like giving them money, they’ll call the number on the back and give these number to our office and we’ll take care of the rest.
Basically its the policy number, and they are given the option of assigning there policy over to them. Its common practise. (Not clearly stating what your selling? Very unethical! IMO)
4.(A)Price guides! That’s right Boys and Girls bring your calculator and some scrap paper because there isn’t any computers or even a program available to down load on your own laptop! To determine prices for your customers, you get to look it up in a hand book like it was 1960! Oh, the fun you’ll have.
4.(B) Additionally to find the correct age of your client they use the “closest to method”, to determine age. (Its legal, at least in the state I was in) It is also legal to “back date” a clients age if their birthday was in the last 6 months.
So instead of helping them save some money, and thus making it perhaps a little easier to close a deal and be viewed as a good guy for helping them out some, you get to incur more cost. But hey, you get more commission! that’s all that matters right??
5. Their prices wasn’t the most reasonable but nothing to out of whack, pretty average I’d say. But they only seem to be worried about funeral expense, 5k-15k.
Straight Life Insurance without dividends, meaning this policy stays the same death benefit forever no chance of growth. “Don’t worry about the big cases 50-150k let the other guys do that” I was told by a manager, “We stay off their radar and don’t have to worry about replacements.”
I also heard a manager say something to the effect of, why use your big policy to pay for your funeral expense, you’ll need that money for other things. If your selling or buying a big policy you should incorporate funeral expense First and foremost into the death benefit amount…that’s the main reason to sell or buy life insurance, right?
6. The “experienced Managers” that I worked with had no clue about Insurance other then what they was told. No clue as to how helpful they could be in someones life, the power to save peoples money on unforeseen loss of income due to accidents, health issues even due to death. No idea how Insurance products can save vast amounts in peoples taxes or how to leverage retirement to achieve more with there money. To provide continuity of life for the survivors.
Why? Because they didn’t know any better, they were hired-in off the street with no insurance back ground, learned only this systems and sold a lot of people crappy policies.
7. No real customer service after point of sale. You didn’t get to drop off the policy, nor deliver death claims even if you wanted to.
I know it sounds scary to some, but delivering death claims is a must if your going to sell insurance. Once you deliver a claim on a contract you wrote. It will make you become a better agent because you then get to see the value of what it is that you do. You’ll take pride in your work and put others needs ahead of your own.
And that is the mark of a great insurance salesman. Earning money by helping people is way more fulfilling and rewarding than scamming people.
I endured the second week because I need money. So I followed there system half heatedly, I didn’t make any sales. Then on at Thursday I came across a client that was money savvy.
The system failed fast as he wanted answers to questions that wasn’t in the manual. So I reverted back to what I knew how to do. I ended up selling a 300k policy, replacing one horrible Universal policy (that was self destructing due to under funding) and 5 credit-life policies he had on various loans. I saved that client over $100 a month even after buying my policy.
I came back dropped off my paper work, and wrote my policy count, premium count and commission on the board. Much to my surprise the Office Manager wasn’t happy with me. As the office manager scolded my sales manager for doing such a horrible job of training me, I added up the board. I earn more in one appointment and one commision then all 11 of the others sales staff combined for the whole week. Yet I wasn’t doing the job I was told to do.
Wasn’t I in sales? Aren’t I supposed to make money? Or was the real problem that I just showed your whole staff and management team that there system was inferior and caused them to evaluate their decision to work the way they was?
I quit as soon as the policy was issued and mailed even tho I didn’t go on any more appointment due to a horrible cold ( I was sick of working there…)
Additionally after leaving I became an Independent Insurance Agent, and revisited my AIL Client. Today I have rolled over 800k in investment for them, 4401k, CD, and profits from a house and RV sale. I have saved them thousands in taxes by advising of an updated will, referring them to an mortgage specialist for refinancing out of a swing arm into a low rate fixed mortgage before the crash even happened.
I have earn close to 80k in commission from this single client, not counting the referrals and leads they provide to me over the years. All while I was simply doing what I love to do, helping people.
I do thank American Income Life for one thing tho. They made my life so much easier. When I’m having a bad day I think, could be worse…I could be working 50+ hours a week for AIL trying to trick people into buying life insurance, all in the hopes of making 50k a year. I work quite a bit less then that, and have a staff of 3 reps all whom make 5 figures a month.
My advice, if you want to be in the insurance business, join a good company that is known for having a outstanding training program. Self study and get your CEP or other estate planning designation asap, your going to have to do your CE (Continued Education required every 2 years) anyways. Practise what you preach, you can’t sell it if you haven’t bought it, and don’t do it because you need the commission…. Save your money for rainy days, they will come and it is hard, so live under your means. Help your friends and family members don’t prey on them for a quick sale in a slow week.
John MDRT,LTCP,CEP,RIA.
For those that don’t know…
MDRT~Million Dollar Round Table (07-08)
LTCP~Long Term Care Professional
CEP~Certified Estate Planner
RIA~Registered Investment Advisor
“Plan like there is no tomorrow.”
December 21st, 2008 at 1:51 am
The office that recruited me charges agents a $50 per week agency fee. That’s paying your boss!
To all of the AIL shills who post here, I guess I was just too lazy to pay my boss!
December 22nd, 2008 at 3:41 pm
John, while I (and I believe other people) appreciate your insight, your English grammar and usage is atrocious and easily discredits otherwise valid commentary.
December 24th, 2008 at 10:11 am
Well it’s interesting to read all these comments.
Like so many others, yes, I had received the call after they spotted my resume on Careerbuilder.com, but during my phone call, it was mentioned that they were looking for management positions to be filled, and since that’s my niche with a recent 15 year management stint completed, I agreed to attend the interview.
It did strike me as odd that the confirmation e-mail said to “dress professionally” - duh - what, do you think someone serious about looking for work will show up in a Metallica T shirt? That may be so, since they don’t seem to be really screening applicants…
The office itself gave me a pit of pause, as it was located in a small - tiny that it - run down office suite nestled on the fringe of a residential area. Shabby, to say the least, however, appearances don’t always tell the whole story. Maybe in this case they did.
OK, so, here’s the first 5 minute interview, and they ask me what type of work positions do I want to avoid…so clearly, I do state that sales or commission sales, are NOT what I am after, and it was communicated to me that this was a management/office coordination type job that was being dangled before me. “Fine, great, you’re what we’re looking for”. Hmm.
Well, so then the big presentation gets underway. Here it is, the big picture, commission sales. Exactly what I’d told two people I did NOT want, was NOT interested in.
The location manager regales us with his tales of being able to buy his first Porsche this year…how he’ll clear 500,000k this year…how in 9 months we’ll be making 80,000 - uh huh. It just smacks of flash and deception - never before have I had a “job interview” where the interviewer is SELLING to a room of applicants…never ever…
This was a sales pitch plain and simple, hoping to sucker in some of the other applicants sitting there with me, the younger girls maybe who mentioned they’re currently with Chuck E Cheese or Target and really want to better themselves but didn’t see through this.
I’m sure there are some AIL office that are professional, and yeah, there’s a market for the product sure - hell I’d sold enough AD&D during my stint as a telemarketer.
I can’t judge AIL as a whole, but based on the snake oil salesmenship on display during my first AND ONLY ( I will not go back for more) encounter with them, there are some serious doubts about their credibility.
December 26th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Well! By reading this I come to one understanding. I will not call the number in my email and yes I am ambitious.
The way I look at it is the people saying good about this company is the people who work for them. No way will I pay to work. You say it is for the license, then if so, why don’t they hurry serious people, less people, and pay for their training?
I think teamwork is a must but if the company is getting a bad score on hiring, then does this not affect the company over all? I think they may need a better resource staff if this company is a good one.
No, I will not call the number for a job in my email because to me the company isn’t stable if they are not stable with their employees.
December 26th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
I received a call today from this company,they said they saw my resume on monster.com.
I thought it was strange,so I found this site,so many negative comments so i cancelled my interview. I have no experience working for a insurance company,I been working in the medical field for the last 15 years…thank you for opening my eyes.
December 26th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
I work for AIL, they never made me pay for my training materials or anything like that.
I did have to pay for my insurance license though, but you have to do that in most places you work, plus its a perk. We sell AIL’s own product, not some recycled one.
I am proud to be in this company, yes there are offices and management thare are scum I am sure, but my time here has been nothing but pleasant. And I have made money here.
the hiring process is a bit shady I must admit, but the training and support you recieve is wonderful, the job is great, I couldn’t be happier.
December 28th, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Ok very interesting reviews.
I am and representative of american income. And my experience at american income have nothing but of truthfulness.
American Income is a company where you control what your pay is, your hours, and what you work. When you get interviewed, the average agent out of my agency (Surace-Smith) makes no less 1200$ a week.
I came into this company thinking it was a scam as well, but until I actually started to work and actually seeing clients cry bc of us just helping them out and insuring them, i knew for a fact this was not a scam.
And on top of serving everybody, we have great work environment, great co-workers. We give people a opportunity to control what they make, whether you take advantage or not is your choice. But as for someone like myself, I took full advantage of it and have not looked back since.
If you want success, you will get it and not use having to pay for your license that you can take throughout your whole state as a excuse.
December 29th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Well, here we go again. I like to periodically peruse the complaint websites when i’m having a bad day, these complaints always lighten my mood a little.
Some guy said earlier the NJ Attorney General’s office claimed AIL was the most complained about company in the US. I called to confirm this and guess what i found out? BIG FAT LIE!
Another guy who claimed to be a former SGA said after 10 years with the company, his debit balance was so large he received no renewals.
First of all, after being an SGA for 10 years why did you only have 3 million in renewal premium? Where did you work, Greenland? And lets face facts Bubba, if your retention was that crappy, why should the company pay you a dime in renewals when all your business was garbage. You failed, SORRY! BLAME YOURSELF!
These websites began with just a couple of failures who decided to complain about their experience with the company. Consequently, it snowballed into more and more ex-agents who didn’t have what it took, bitterly complaining about their own miserable failures.
NOW, it has been taken over by hundreds of people, WHO ARE LOOKING FOR JOBS AND HAVE THEIR RESUMES POSTED ON JOB SITES, who never even got in their car and drove down for the interview.
What a shame that just a couple of people who were unable to perform successfully at AIL, may have shattered countless potential successful careers of poor souls who never had the chance to even come down for the group interview. There may be thousands of people out there who would have done well and secured a life-long career but were scared off by disturbing sites like this one.
And Mike, one last thing: You are right about something, for 2 and 1/2 years i had to sacrifice lots of time with my family, and it was tough on them and me. I was exhausted after pulling 12 hour days(never 16-18 by the way) 6 days a week. But i gotta tell you this: I essentially work 9-5 now except for the few times a month in the field when i have to maintenance train a struggling agent. I have more time for my family now more than i ever had in my life. Except now, my family will never have to worry about money again. I re-examine my future business plan every month and fully intend to secure a fat renewal check for life. The sacrifice was well worth it.
God bless you all
December 29th, 2008 at 11:21 pm
Alright I’m back again.
I’ve said many times that I don’t necessarily agree with the hiring practices. When I’m doing interviews, I prefer to give the people as many of the FACTS as they ask for.
I’m not going to lie and B.S. you just to get you to the second interview. Some agencies may use deception and lies to get new hires and keep the list rolling…but I’m sure that is not the norm.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…it’s a group interview…it’s easier for the managers to handle so that we are not in the office all day every day just doing interviews with each prospective employee.
I just honestly believe that if we called people on their resumes and said we are a life insurance company that pays in commission only there would not be many responses.
If it’s not for you, don’t do it. If you could care less about how they got you in the door, and care more about what’s available when you walk through it, then it’s certainly the company for you…
December 31st, 2008 at 7:52 am
Ah well, time for me to tell my story; if only I’d found this website (or the many others like it) before accepting employment from American Income Life.
First off let me start with this: make no mistake, AIL is a multilevel marketing scheme. They are rated A+ superior, yes, however this speaks only to their solvency, not their business ethics. Yes, the stock profile is better than average, but they make their money by cashing in people like you and me.
Not only is AIL the most unprofessional company I have ever worked for (I have worked for two small businesses that operate in the owners home, both were leaps and bounds more professional than AIL), but it is without a doubt the least ethical (by again, leaps and bounds).
I paid an expensive price for my naivety (at this point, I have $9.67 in my checking account and 37.40 in my savings account. I spent over two grand for this job, stupid me); my hope is that others can avoid the disaster I suffered by finding my story, and the story of others, online.
Forget what they tell you in the job description about ‘helping people’ and being a ‘manager trainee program.’ Here is the job, mislead people on the phone to get them so schedule an appointment, enter their home under false pretenses, and then emotionally manipulate them as much as possible to try and get them to buy life insurance they may or may not need.
Now, I understand that emotional manipulation is an intrinsic part of advertising and sales, however, this is not the part that is really despicable. It’s the ‘entering people’s homes under false pretenses’ part.
You are going into someone’s home, having just short of lied to them about why you are even there; that act is not moral. And then on top of that, your job is to assault them with underhanded sales techniques until they cave and buy a life insurance policy.
In this job, you are essentially a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman. They just want any excuse to get their foot in the door so they can sell someone. I am not capable of doing that, so I quite.
They tell you that you won’t have to work hard… I was working up to fourteen hours a day, and I was working seven days a week. I should mention, I did that willingly and was never late (my manager was almost always late), and I barely slept for about three weeks.
I am not afraid of hard work; I worked my way through college for a BS in math. Twenty to thirty hours a week at a job and college full time is hard work. So please understand, I left the company because I could not reconcile the business practices of this company with my conscience, not because they wanted me to work hard (though strangely, they kept insisting that the job was ‘easy,’ and ‘you only had to work smart, not hard’).
When I quit, my GA was very professional. I handed her a letter of resignation, and she said, “Okay. I’ll need your leads so we can reconcile them.” She was fine about it (I imagine she’d been through someone quiting about a million times before).
But then, my SGA wanted to see me (I presumed for an exit interview). He basically just berated me for a while. Looking back, I don’t really see what the point of that was.
He had always had a lot of hope for me. I think he could tell that I am a hard worker. Also, I passed the state exam the first time, which no one else I encountered at the office had done (most took it about three times, some more). So, perhaps he was just angry to lose me.
I tried to remain professional, he didn’t stop the verbal barrage until I used the phrase, “bait and switch.” I used it to describe what they do in people’s homes (basically, “here are some free benefi-BuySomeLifeInsurance!!!!) Wow, just thinking back, what an absolutely horrible experience, and it gets even better.
Now that I quit, they apparently aren’t going to pay me my first pay check. Or they aren’t going to pay me the full amount anyways. When I went out with my “leads” (more on those later) and my manager did the closing, I was supposed to get paid for those.
Now, they’re basically making my commission a lot less because I quit, which is illegal in the state of Maryland. So, just to get my pay check (my minuscule conciliation price of $700) I have to file a compliant form in district court. Yes that’s right, just to get my pay check from this company, I have to take them to court… awesome (sarcasm).
Please anyone reading this, just save yourself the misery and stay away from this company. If you want to do sales, great. There are many non-MLM sales jobs out there for you, where you won’t have to be a scum bag. If you really want to sell life insurance, great. There are many reputable companies out there to work for that won’t screw you over.
Phew, so many things to talk about with this company. Next, lets talk about those “leads.” They aren’t actually leads. Leads, would be people who maybe wants to buy life insurance, these are not those people.
Your “leads” might as well be a random sampling of the population. These poor people are those who have requested no cost benefits through there union. How is that related to, they want to buy life insurance? It isn’t!
Basically, AIL strikes a deal with a union to provide minuscule no cost benefits in exchange for getting a salesperson into the home of some union member. If I were in a union that dealt with AIL, I’d be pretty upset.
It’s strange, but I went through different phases with this company. They had me so sold on them at first (how naive I was). I was ready to work hard and sacrifice. By the end, however, I could see right through my SGA’s bullshit. When he was verbally assaulting me for my ‘exit interview,’ half the things he said didn’t even make sense.
In a way, it was sort of sad. It was amazing, in only four and a half weeks time, I went from idolizing my SGA, to feeling sorry for him.
On a side note, it’s interesting, I read one comment about how a new-hire’s car was nicer than their manager’s. That was the case for me too, and I was just a working student!
And another odd thing, my SGA was all about God. I think he was basically using “The Secret” as a motivational tool for his employees. Please keep in mind, I’m not saying it’s odd that he is very religious, that is completely common and normal. What’s odd is how he sort of forced it on me (and everyone else).
Throughout the office, there are messages on dry erase boards about how ‘though God all things are possible.’ What things are they talking about? Ripping people off to make band? I’m no deity, but I’m pretty sure swindling people is wrong.
Not to mention, the SGA makes almost a million dollars a year on his MLM empire. I’m pretty sure I remember something from Bible school about it being easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter heaven.
I’m just saying, I think this definitely qualifies as irony. The other thing where he really pressed the issue was when he said that God was the only thing that could center you. It was a very awkward moment in the training class for me, because he made everyone in the room say that God centers them.
Firstly, I personally believe that everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. I happen to not believe in any sentient creator being. He rode me until I more or less said that I believed in God and that God is the only thing that can center me.
I should have seen a red flag at that point. I think I was just still so sold on the whole thing. But, I digress.
Looking back, I don’t know how they ever fooled me. I guess I just wanted to believe that there was some sort of short cut to wealth. And perhaps, if one has no concern for integrity, then there is. For me however, no paycheck is worth that. That is a bit comforting to know, but I still don’t know how I’m going to pay my bills this month…
So please, please, learn from my mistake. Don’t work for American Income Life. I know the job market is tough right now, but save yourself the indignity.
January 3rd, 2009 at 1:57 pm
I went to my second interview and after that i was turned off by the basis of the company.
Any company that demands money from you especially in this struggling economy is insane. Ail might be a company that you get what you put in but i conviced you’ll waste alot of time and money.
And they seem to hire anyone who is willing to try…
January 4th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
All I’m going to say is that there’s probably a reason gmail filtered all my recruiting emails from this company to spam.
I just saw the email when I was cleaning out my spam folder and thought I’d google search to see if I found any info on it..
I think I’ll pass on submitting my resume.
January 5th, 2009 at 2:24 am
It happened to me a couple of months ago. I was so desperate for a job- I fell for the American Inocome crap.
It was a “new” office in NH. They saw my resume on monster… yada yada yada - 1st interview, you know the drill… me and 5 others. Much less than the other people reported - “cattle call”.
Then I got the call for 2nd interview and “passed” everything- even the personality test…LOL. I agreed to take the online courses- which are HORRIBLE. They are probably part of the scam.
My manager was fresh out of college - poor thing. Easy prey I guess. I am more dissapointed in the way they handle their interviewing techniques. Dont tell me lies- oh I will be making money in the first week right??
After reading the posts on here- I knew my manager was full of sh*t! I needed the job so bad- I even told the manager that I was so excited to work for them because money had been so tight and that I was heading for forclosure- yeah buddy thanks for the heads up jerkoff!
And the whole unethical part- it just makes me sick to my stomach.
The best part was the break up though. After taking their stupid courses and being in contact with the manager only- I stumbled upon this site and read the bad news about the company.
I was starting to get a bad vibe and this site just confirmed it. So when I called and asked for the manager- the infamous “regional manager” picks up the phone… I say 2 words : “I’m out”…. all he says is “thanks for calling”. **sholes!
*So the lesson here is if it sounds too good to be true- IT IS!! *
January 6th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Well, well, I thought as much.
My experience with MLM sales pitches in the past (Amway, etc) taught me that if a company relies on a constant new supply of salespeople who are reeled in by the promise of riches made off the backs of their own recruits, then they are clearly in the numbers game, not the people-helping game.
Those at the top level are constantly working not to improve their product, but to replenish the bottom level, who provide all the dirty footwork.
And as I told the office who called me about “a management position”, AIL’s horrible reputation on the web (whether fully-deserved or not) is not a handicap I want to assume. It’s hard enough trying to sell iffy insurance to poor union members- Who wants to try and deal with that kind of bad rep?
January 7th, 2009 at 10:06 pm
Wow, I can not believe how the blind lead the blind.
There is no job out there that is going to pay you for not working. Most of these upset x employees couldn’t take it.
This job is not for everybody. I am a MGA for the company and I am in charge of interviewing. In my agency, we don’t just hire anybody. I know that this is a hard job. I know this isn’t for everybody.
But, I think it is wonderful that this company will give an ordinary person, with no school or degree a chance to become something bigger.
And to the people who are upset: there upset because they could see their dream and realized that they didn’t have the discipline and motivation to reach it. They want it handed to them.
As far as paying for training, we do not collect money for any of this. We show them were they needed to go to get schooling and licensing. We show them in office, but they can do it on their own.
The reason new agents don’t do it on their own is because they don’t know how to. I have put 4 people in class today. Here, in my state, it only costs: 85 for class, 85 for test, and 50 to get your license.
The other funny thing about it is there are some companies that pay for classes for them, but they’re getting their money back somewhere. Most, not all, of these companies ask for a list of family and friends. This is more leads for the company.
Also, if you leave a company as an agent and have bad business, the company will make you pay it back to them, or hold your license. Here, when an agent leaves he is not responsible for the business anymore, and his license is his.
Oh, and you guys need to do more research before believing people that were inadequate to do the job. If you go to AM Best, the company who rates insurance companies, they rate us A+. Wow, for a scam, that pretty good…lol I will tell you this.
When I interview I am looking for people who have discipline and motivation. A lot of people say they have this and when it comes time to prove it they can’t. Resumes….lol these are just brag sheets….lol
As far as people saying all agencies do everything the same way, that is false. Agencies have different programs and different scripts. The agencies are controlled by the sga….Oh, lol also, saying that our clients pay out more money than the policy is worth is way off. Maybe a 75 year old man who lives to 100…. lol And he bought it because he needed it…
I just can’t believe this many people in this forum are that blind to whats happening. Don’t let other people make your decision for you. I have seen a lot of successful people. I have seen people fail. But it is not a scam.
Why, don’t you guys ask some of our families who have had someone passed away and we took care of them. Unions don’t like us… Are you serious…? We work with over 25,000 unions. 3,000 FCU, 1,000 associations like the fire depts., and state police alliance. Do you really think the state police alliance would be with us if it was a scam?
Ya right. And I can’t believe that someone would make fun of the food bank. We run food banks for union members who get laid off or fired. What, do you hate people who help? I know that as a company we cannot make everyone happy, but we do try.
Do you realize that we start training agents on a 40% contract, $175 guarantee advance and bonus every week!!! Wow, That’s awesome. My agents, who are not doing great by standards, are making 30,000 a year. Good agents make 60,000 and then the exceptions of superstars in excess of 100,000 in their first year.
Iffy insurance? have you even looked up there quotes, I bet you can’t find a better price…. Iffy, its whole life… Guaranteed … Not term that goes away. Did you that nationally, only 1% of term policy’s pay out… This is whole life, at least in my state. Again, every state is different.
But what I know is that the unions here love us because we help them out in many different ways, not just insurance. We back the working men and women of this country. I’m sure there will be non believers but why destroy other people’s dreams just because you couldn’t hack it.
As for management. Here our management team is awesome. Everybody loves working for us. Matter of fact, when someone quits them usually stay in contact with me… The reason we say management trainee, is that you can become a manager in a month. Most of the time its 3 months.
But, why do people in here feel we have to just give you money for nothing. Again, I know it’s not for everyone. When I’m interviewing I make sure to tell them everything about the position. If you don’t like it don’t go but don’t slander a company who has giving its entire being to protecting our clients and pay our agents very well……..
January 10th, 2009 at 4:27 pm
I put my resume on Monster looking for an executive assistant position and got a call from Am Income Ins.
They asked me to come in for an interview and when I asked what position I was interviewing for I was told that they have lots of positions - sales, mgmt trainee, “we have lots of jobs.”
My interview lasted no more than 10 minutes and I was asked to come back in an hour for a group interview and a personality test. I asked a 2nd time what I was interviewing for and was told it depends on how I do.
The group interview was conducted by a very bad saleman who raved about how great the company is. He started by saying that selling insurance is recession proof. He reviewed the policies such as burial ins and accident ins and went into how you are paid such as if you sell a $6000 life ins policy you get a $2000 “wake-up bonus” where you wake up and there’s $2000 in your checking account the next day.
We were explained how we get paid where he through out all this $1000s of $$$s if you do this or that. As a litigation paralegal I was ready to go to the DA about this operation.
It wasn’t until the end of the day at my 3rd part of the interview process that I was told that I had to put out $700 upon hire and then go home and wait for some “yellow cards” that would tell me the prospects I was to call on.
You have to set-up your own home office and use your own car. If I was to make 1.5 sales per week I would make $35,000/yr. I just wonder what the “wake-up bonus” is for the guy at the top of this piramid.
This is a job that no one needs. Who has ever heard of a job where you have to pay to start working. It concerns me that someone who is so desparate for a job, will bite into this scam.
January 11th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
well the only other position available at the company is PR. I am thinking part of the PR is to monitor this blog as well as others and respond.
I am not going to say if it is right or wrong because sales IS SALES and requires a ton of commitment. I have known many sales people who were successful and others that sucked (including myself).
Here are some of my points:
1. they do not offer any health insurance
2. no discount to buy any of their policies
3. jennifer told me they would reimburse my $700 lic fee
4. Yes it is only $50 plus materials to study and get the license. I should be able to certify myself with whom I please but they won’t let me but “IT IS MY BUSINESS”
http://www.learninsurance.com/oregon/oregon-insurance-ce.cfm?source=gliORce333002INSonl24&gclid=CPL14umch5gCFRlRagodkEOCDA
5. deception in interview they shouldn’t hire no sales people!!!!
6. other stuff but i’m tired.
January 11th, 2009 at 6:16 pm
Saaleswise 234 I loved your response DITTO!!!
January 11th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
oh by the way I TRULY do not work for AIL… I needed to get this straight.
I wanted to make a comment on someone who bloged why there are no complaints from…. a list of insurance companies… one was AIG… GO FIGURE!!!!
January 13th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
I want to thank people like all of you for getting the word out about scammers like AIL.
I signed up with Career Builder and put my Resume out there with companies I knew were good. Today AIL called me to let me know they saw my Resume and would love an interview with me.
I told them NO because of places like this. Thank you all again!
January 13th, 2009 at 6:33 pm
Anybody see boiler room?
Its kinda like that… No, exactly like that.
January 13th, 2009 at 9:29 pm
Its sad when people have to bad mouth a reputable company because they don’t have the money to pay for THEIR OWN licensing.
Maybe they do a 3 interview process to weed out all you complainers who just aren’t cut out to make over a hundred grand a year. (It takes hard work and long hours…sorry to let you in on that little secret)
Wake up, stop your complaining and do some real research on this company before you run your mouth off.
January 14th, 2009 at 2:33 am
I was hired on in March 2008. Completed 2008 as a personal producer. Bought my first Ferrari (355 F1 Spider) July 3, 2008. Made $96,000 gross income in 9 months.
Made Founder’s Club AND President’s Club AND qualified for AIL Convention and only worked 9 months out of the year.
Sales isn’t for everyone people. And the line between sales and providing benefits to families is not as thick as people think. I love my job. I love meeting all of the union members.
My renewals started in October and are now at over $1000/month. So, I get paid $1000 for waking up every morning. What a great life.
January 14th, 2009 at 8:25 pm
i was called for an interview, i went.
The lady could not answer any of my questions. She said that it would be covered in my second interview, well not 10 mins later she ask me to come back for the second interview.
I show up and there is a group of people that are there for the second interview. made me wonder how everyone from the first interview made it to the second, even the guy who came in wearing jeans and t-shirt.
After the video, which was suppose to be the second interview, the lady i interviewed called me back to her office and told me that she would call me later with more info.
well she called tonight, which my first interview was today, telling me that i have been selected for the final interview. I have never interviewed with a company and had someone call me back that fast.
Makes me wonder what really is going on.
Thanks to everyone who provided a great insight to how this company really works.
January 14th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
WOW! I’m glad I looked into them, unfortunately it was after I set up an interview with them, but at least now I know what to expect when I go.
Thanks everyone for all of your comments and information! I appreciate it!
January 15th, 2009 at 1:01 am
I read a lot of these post but one thing i dont get is how come no ne has reported anything to bbb and how come bbb hasnt no complaints aginst AIL??????????
January 16th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
John- there is only 1 accredited AIL with the BBB. The rest are not accredited, so it wouldn’t matter if anyone filed a complaint against them. ‘
Just for the single AIL that IS accredited - they had 39 complaints with the BBB within 36 months…I copied and pasted the following from the BBB site for you to see. If you don’t believe me then go to the website and check it our for yourself!
Business Contact and Profile
Name: American Income Life Insurance Company
Phone: (254) 761-6400
Fax: (254) 761-6670
Address: PO Box 2608
Waco, TX 76797
Local Start Date: January 1924
Principal: Mr Roger Smith, President
File Open Date: February 1977
TOB Classification: Insurance Companies
BBB Accreditation: This organization is a BBB Accredited business.
Additional DBA Names: Torchmark Corporation
Additional Locations and Phone Numbers
Additional Addresses
1200 Wooded Acres Dr
Waco, TX 76710
Licensing
This company is in an industry that may require licensing, bonding or registration in order to lawfully do business. BBB encourages you to check with the appropriate agency to be certain any requirements are currently being met.
These agencies may include:
Texas Department of Insurance
333 Guadalupe St
Austin, TX 78701-3938
(800) 578-4677
******Customer Complaint History******
When considering complaint information, please take into account the company’s size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm’s responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints.
BBB processed a total of 39 complaints about this company in the last 36 months, our standard reporting period. Of the total of 39 complaints closed in 36 months, 19 were closed in the last year.
Contract Issues BBB Definition:
Contract Issues - Claim of alleged failure to honor contract or agreement, work performed without authorization, or invalid contract.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
4 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Billing or Collection Issues BBB Definition:
Billing or Collection Issues - Claim alleging billing errors, unauthorized charges, or questionable collection practices.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
4 - Company resolved BBB Definition:
resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
4 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Administratively Closed BBB Definition:
Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution
1 - BBB determined the company made a reasonable offer to resolve the issues, but the consumer did not accept the offer.
Sales Practice Issues BBB Definition:
Sales Practice Issues - Claims of alleged sales presentations made in person or by telephone that contain misrepresentations of the product or service, high pressure sales practices, failure to disclose key conditions of the offer, and verbal representations not consistent with written contractual terms or agreements.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
4 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Service Issues BBB Definition:
Service Issues - Claims of alleged delay in completing service, failure to provide promised service, inferior quality of provided service, or damaged merchandise as a result of delivery service.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company resolved BBB Definition:
resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
6 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Customer Service Issues BBB Definition:
Service Issues - Claims of alleged delay in completing service, failure to provide promised service, inferior quality of provided service, or damaged merchandise as a result of delivery service.
BBB Definition:
Customer Service Issues - Claims alleging unsatisfactory customer service, including personnel’s failure to provide assistance in a timely manner, failure to address or respond to customer dissatisfaction, unavailability for customer support, and/or inappropriate behavior or attitude exhibited by company staff.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company offered a partial (less than 100%) settlement which the consumer accepted.
5 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Guarantee or Warranty Issues BBB Definition:
Guarantee or Warranty Issues - Claims alleging failure to honor the terms regarding guarantees or warranties.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Product Issues BBB Definition:
Product Issues - Claim alleging a product does not meet the expectations of the complainant, including defective merchandise.
Administratively Closed BBB Definition:
Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution
1 - BBB determined that despite the company’s reasonable effort to address complaint issues, the consumer remained dissatisfied.
Refund or Exchange Issues BBB Definition:
Refund or Exchange Issues - Claim of alleged failure to honor company policy or verbal commitment to provide refunds, exchanges, or credit for products or services.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company resolved BBB Definition:
resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
5 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Administratively Closed BBB Definition:
Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution
1 - BBB determined that despite the company’s reasonable effort to address complaint issues, the consumer remained dissatisfied.
I was hired on in March 2008. Completed 2008 as a personal producer. Bought my first Ferrari (355 F1 Spider) July 3, 2008. Made $96,000 gross income in 9 months.
January 16th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Why didn’t my other post come up??
There is only 1 accredited BBB American Income Life…the rest are not credited, so it would be pointless to file a complaint.
Business Contact and Profile
Name: American Income Life Insurance Company
Phone: (254) 761-6400
Fax: (254) 761-6670
Address: PO Box 2608
Waco, TX 76797
Local Start Date: January 1924
Principal: Mr Roger Smith, President
File Open Date: February 1977
TOB Classification: Insurance Companies
BBB Accreditation: This organization is a BBB Accredited business.
Additional DBA Names: Torchmark Corporation
Products and Services
This company offers health, life and accident insurance.
Additional Locations and Phone Numbers
Additional Addresses
1200 Wooded Acres Dr
Waco, TX 76710
Licensing
This company is in an industry that may require licensing, bonding or registration in order to lawfully do business. BBB encourages you to check with the appropriate agency to be certain any requirements are currently being met.
These agencies may include:
Texas Department of Insurance
333 Guadalupe St
Austin, TX 78701-3938
(800) 578-4677
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Customer Complaint History
When considering complaint information, please take into account the company’s size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm’s responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints.
BBB processed a total of 39 complaints about this company in the last 36 months, our standard reporting period. Of the total of 39 complaints closed in 36 months, 19 were closed in the last year.
Contract Issues BBB Definition:
Contract Issues - Claim of alleged failure to honor contract or agreement, work performed without authorization, or invalid contract.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
4 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Billing or Collection Issues BBB Definition:
Billing or Collection Issues - Claim alleging billing errors, unauthorized charges, or questionable collection practices.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
4 - Company resolved BBB Definition:
resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
4 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Administratively Closed BBB Definition:
Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution
1 - BBB determined the company made a reasonable offer to resolve the issues, but the consumer did not accept the offer.
Sales Practice Issues BBB Definition:
Sales Practice Issues - Claims of alleged sales presentations made in person or by telephone that contain misrepresentations of the product or service, high pressure sales practices, failure to disclose key conditions of the offer, and verbal representations not consistent with written contractual terms or agreements.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
4 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Service Issues BBB Definition:
Service Issues - Claims of alleged delay in completing service, failure to provide promised service, inferior quality of provided service, or damaged merchandise as a result of delivery service.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company resolved BBB Definition:
resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
6 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Customer Service Issues BBB Definition:
Service Issues - Claims of alleged delay in completing service, failure to provide promised service, inferior quality of provided service, or damaged merchandise as a result of delivery service.
BBB Definition:
Customer Service Issues - Claims alleging unsatisfactory customer service, including personnel’s failure to provide assistance in a timely manner, failure to address or respond to customer dissatisfaction, unavailability for customer support, and/or inappropriate behavior or attitude exhibited by company staff.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company offered a partial (less than 100%) settlement which the consumer accepted.
5 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Guarantee or Warranty Issues BBB Definition:
Guarantee or Warranty Issues - Claims alleging failure to honor the terms regarding guarantees or warranties.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Product Issues BBB Definition:
Product Issues - Claim alleging a product does not meet the expectations of the complainant, including defective merchandise.
Administratively Closed BBB Definition:
Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution
1 - BBB determined that despite the company’s reasonable effort to address complaint issues, the consumer remained dissatisfied.
Refund or Exchange Issues BBB Definition:
Refund or Exchange Issues - Claim of alleged failure to honor company policy or verbal commitment to provide refunds, exchanges, or credit for products or services.
Resolved BBB Definition:
Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
1 - Company resolved BBB Definition:
resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
5 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
Administratively Closed BBB Definition:
Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution
1 - BBB determined that despite the company’s reasonable effort to address complaint issues, the consumer remained dissatisfied.
January 16th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
My goodness!!!! I just lined up an interview, then I saw all of this about this company…
Praise God for the Holy Spirit to lead me to this….they will not be seeing me at that scheduled interview….I just want to THANK everyone for their honesty and comments…
GOB BLESS YOU ALL….good luck in your job search.
January 16th, 2009 at 10:32 pm
VERY IMPORTANT YOU READ FULLY..
90% of the time, companies are not bad, just bad representation. I can’t speak for all of the 120 offices in the United States, Canada, Purto Rico, and New Zealand.
But to be a 3000 strong agency force, with over 37% of that force making over 100k per year at an agent level or supervisor its dishearting to read all thses negaitive remarks.
If you are using other peoples comments that you do not know to judge a company, sounds pretty careless and quite frankly unprofessional when deciding on a potential career decision. One should gather both the good and bad info and ask questions in the interviewing process.
American Income is to widly respected across the country to be protrayed as this crazy scam company.
Its sales folks. Most people aren’t cut out to sale. But everybody wants to make 6 figures. Sales enables that. 5% of america makes over 100k per year, 95% of that 5% are sales people.
Untill people stop dying and going to the hospital, looks like are sales people will always have a place to go, a reason to be there, and product to sell.
January 17th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
This is the letter that I submitted today to my boss at AIL.
Mind you, I made good money at this job (more than at any other job that I have ever had). But there is a price you pay with ethics for your employment with this company. Read it and take from it what you will:
January 17th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
AIL superstar-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for the laugh!!! That by far is the best AIL proponent’s lie I’ve ever heard. I will quote you on that.
Thanks.
January 17th, 2009 at 10:33 pm
AIL….. well I belive they are true about making money……
truth is there have always been people like this……. ask your grandparents about the old bible sales men……… I respect the fact of how these people live their lives…..
like any GROUP OF PEOPLE there are liers and snakes….. you can not blame a COMPANY for a few shady employees…… if you feel this way stop shoping at Wal-Mart……
Look I went to the interview and me personaly not a fit form me…… I am post secondary school…. and from what they asked in the group interview in 5 years I will graduate and be a Rocket Scientist…….
I have sold Vacuum cleanrs as a kid I know the game and I know it is not a life for me, but not to say that my next door neighbor who is an out of work car sales man jumped and thanked me for refferring him to this company…………sales is this guys life that is who he is I can’t be mad because he does what it takes to make money…..
me I guess I am more of a lemming than I thought but to bash a company that never did me wrong is just as bad……. a real surfer will tell you that if you dont like they wave catch the next one…… peace out and good luck and dont bash people that are not bashing you.
January 18th, 2009 at 9:35 pm
I just got a phone call on sunday night at 6pm to come in for an interview.
ummm excuse me but any self respecting company does not do this let alone ask you to pay them money for a starter software program.
If you start thinking whether or not its legit, more times than not, it isnt
January 19th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
For the anonymous fellow on line 104. This is your quote.
“2000 alp x .65 = 1300
1300 x .5 = 650 paycheck = 175 gas bonus = .15% weekly bonus add that up and, thats right $1125 paycheck
I would say not bad for a days work, anyone agree. No thats right cause your all failures”
Punctuation errors.
Grammatically incorrect sentences.
Some lame McDonald insults. (From Delilah, Line 60)
Childish Insults.
I laugh because these are the people AIL hires to sell their insurance, sorry LIFE INSURANCE, to nice people who only want to make a better life for their family. Good luck to those who do care about their fellow neighbors.
January 20th, 2009 at 1:12 am
i also received a call from american income.
they left a vmail stating that they saw my resume online & wanted me 2 interview 4 the job. my wife suggested i look them up & stumbled upon this website,
THANK GOD!!! i can’t believe what would’ve happened if i called back. what they r doing 2 ppl is just terrible & pathetic. i’m glad i didn’t waste my time.
thanx 4 the warnings every1.
January 20th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
John wrote,
Go to the better business bureau and look up American Income Life. There is only 1 branch (In texas) that is BBB accredited. And they had 39 complaints in 36 months or something very close to that. AIL then paid the BBB to “close” the files and have them set as “resolved” on the website. Look it up!
January 21st, 2009 at 2:49 am
Um…Number 250. I don’t understand what you mean when you laugh.
I think that you actually think I am joking about my success within this company. That, to me, is comical. I really do own a Ferrari, and a BMW, and a Honda, which I use as my work car. I just bought a brand new house, as well.
So, if you are having a laugh at what you think is me providing this board with lies, then keep it up. My life is perfect and, unfortunately, there is no way for you to verify the veracity of my claims. So, good luck bashing companies online while I continue to live my amazing life.
January 21st, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Kudos to Stephen for shedding light on one very important topic that has been ignored: AIL leadership is poorly educated.
Rick Altig holds a bachelors from Oregon State in political sciene and now holds a very high position out of his league. Roger Smith has a GED and is president. Their head of sales, or more recently dubbed chief marketing officer, holds a bachelors from some marginal no name school in Canada. These are the people running the company.
Normally upper management and controlers of companies have masters or doctorates in business and strong vitaes to back them up-but NOT at AIL.
Like Stephen, i was lied to the first day I stepped foot into an Altig office-all managers and agents at all AIL offices are immersed in poorly educated managers and leaders, thus low quality service and business ethics is what you get from the top down.
Leadership is everything in a company-and the leadership at AIL is awful. Not one word from anyone defending this company can be trusted-if anything notice they all cite the same “facts” and make the same defenses (in poor grammar and style) that are untrue.
February 5th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Test
February 6th, 2009 at 2:15 am
F!!! I just paid over 400 dollars today for this. I got the job today and they said I needed to sign up then and there and pay the 400 dollars. I was really excited about making the good money but im so confused if what everyone is saying is true then Im screwed. I dont have a dime to my name now and I dont have money for rent now because I paid this. Im a really motivated person and i was really excited but i came across this and now im really confused. Someone who has worked there more the 6 months please tell me how you like it so i can stay motivated to work hard and beieve in what im selling.
February 7th, 2009 at 6:36 am
Wow!! Glad I read this prior to contacting them. I thought is was a bit odd being contacted for a jod at 8:20 pm on a Friday.
February 8th, 2009 at 2:01 am
You know what? This is a awful lot of comments in just a few months.
I’ve made as much money as Moby and the others are claiming - with an MBA in a real job.
I can tell you this, any company that calls me to schedule an interview, and the guy who called me is “out of the office” for a few days, and NEVER calls me back…then I start getting e-mails from another guy who I can’t get hold of, then a phone call from a different guy who wants me to come to a “meeting” but won’t tell me the company name or what the job is until I ask specifically…
Red flag, waving vigorously.
February 9th, 2009 at 11:49 am
They just called me also. When I called them back and told them I would not be coming in for an interview, they said “fine” and hung up.
February 9th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Thanks for the heads up!
February 9th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH for all of your horrible reviews. I will call first thing in the morning and cancel my interview.
February 11th, 2009 at 3:09 pm
This is a great company! I have worked there and I also carry insurance thru them. Since the 80′s. Maybe its just where you live on how the company is run. You cant always judge a person by their education. I knew SGA’s that made a lot of money with only a high school education. Like any place you work someone always has something negative to say. To Stephen 251 now all of sudden you have ethics what happen during the time period you worked there. “Point Made”
February 12th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Ok I just completed my final interview and recieved my study guides, AIL chipped in on the cost of the state required pretest classes but yes I had to pay something for my education. The guy I have been dating is a “realist” who directed me to this site. Now Although I have not made anymoney yet I know investing in my education and licensing will be of value to me weather I wok for AIL or not. On my first interview there were at least 75 people waiting to be seen 24 of us got a second interview and I dont know how many were actually offered a position. I do know that they were up front about everything and they told me HONESTY is very important they dont want you to lie becuase that is bad for business, you upset one person and they go to work and say dont do it. My mother had insurance with them for many years. Another thing they told me is that this job is not cut out for everyone 1 out of 10 will stick with it to see the money others will determine is not for them. I have worked commision based sales before although I am still wet behind the ears which they see as trainability, they dont want bad habits from other sales training. The Office in Indianapolis didnt seem like many of the offices mentioned above. I am optamistic and believe I can be successful, and even if the lead is 2 years old it is still a lead they are providing from someone who contacted them. They were upfront about the odds and that people will stand you up, not every appointment will buy most wont this offices odds are 1 in 3. They will only give you leads in the same zip code. Now I have worked many places where your leads are a phone book and you try to convince them the gave you their information and that was not for me becuase it was dishonest and often hopeless. The key word is not for ME. AIL however so far I have nothing bad to say about them and if I am not sucessful it becuase it wasn’t for me. Any manager with good since is going to invest their time to try and make you the best you can be but in the end it is up to you, They want to make money too and from hiring and training they dont do that, they only make money off of you when you make money. If you dont make money of course they are not going to continue being patient. I wouldn’t cancel an interview based on these reviews just make a list of questions should they decide to offer you a position. It could be a wonderful thing if you can work commisioned sales, it could be a waste of both your time and resources and theirs if not. Thats how it is and that is life. I am peronally in a position I have nothing to loose and the money I am spending is by my own choice to invest in my self, I just know when I get my license they will be the first to give me a chance. I have not been asked to pay them a single penny to them. So I a partially educated single 26 year old female who has been scammed before says no this is not a scam it is just not an easy 9-5 go in come out and get your check kind of job, you have to apply yourself and at first I can see and expect it to be time consuming and in time as I get better at my business and build risidule income maybe I can spend less time out in the field. But relax people it is a sales position, which has a high turnover rate becuase sales are not for everybody. Best of luck to you no matter what you do.
February 12th, 2009 at 5:43 pm
I had posted my resume in response to an ad on craigslist, and received a call about a week later. When I had asked the woman on the phone what the name of the company was, the lady mumbled the name, and then would change the subject. Then she asked me a question that was sort of odd. What position am I interested in….What kind of question is that? Ive been a recruiter before, also a supervisor and Im going to have to say that its odd to ask someone what they want to be hired for.
As a company you should know what positions are open, and as an employer you should know what you are looking for exactly. So with some suspicion, I entered the phone number into google and came up with this website. Read ALL of the replies. Ive come to the conclusion that I will not be there for the interview tomorrow. Thank you for posting this its much appreciated.
February 13th, 2009 at 8:49 am
HELLO! WELL I JUST GOT INTERVIEWD YESTERDAY. I BEEN RESEARCHING THEIR COMPANY AND IT SEEM LIKE THAY ARE JUST A NOTHE SCAM. I DO WANT TO CLERIFY… THE PROCEDURE THAT THEY ARE USING WHERE YOU PAY ABOUT $700 DOLLARS FOR THE LICENSE AND TRAINING IS REALLY THE NORMS OF ANY OTHER INSURANCE COMPNAY. YOU HAVE TO PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR THESE LICENSES BECAUSE YOU ARE REGISTERIN WITH THE STATE NOT THE COMPANY… THEREFOR YOUR LICENSE IS VALID ANY WHERE ELSE THAT YOU CHOOSE TO WORK…SOME COMAPNIES OFFER TO PAY FOR THE CLASSES AND TRAINIG FOR YOU..BUT AT THE END THEY TAKE IT FROM YOUR COMMISSION.
WELL IM VERY DISAPOINTED ABOUT THIS COMPANY IF THEY HAD A SECURE BASE PAY THAN IT WOULD MAKE THEIR COMPANY SEEM MORE CREDIBLE…I GUESS I WONT BE TAKING THIS JOB =(
February 14th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
I currently work, and know many people at other firms, that work for EMPLOYERS that will pay for all credentials incidental for the job (e.g. FINRA Series licenses), and who value continuing education and will pay in-part for advanced degree programs (e.g. MA/MS, MBA, JD, etc.). An instructor of mine when I was an undergrad at a top tier college and business program once told us that the quality of an employing firm can be judged by the quality of their benefits, especially retirement (e.g., matching contributions and percent of match) and education (e.g., compensation for credentials and degrees).
Similar to what Dean said, I’m making as much as they promised, but a) I don’t have an MBA (only an undergrad degree from a respected university), b) I’m not in commissioned sales, c) my employer is definitely well-respected within industry and government. Yes, agreed, commissioned sales is NOT for everyone. But I know quality employers, including insurance companies and investment banks, and the way that they handle recruitment, training, and hiring is nothing like the practices (or lack thereof that I experienced) of AIL (AIL is NOT AIL-although they went under, they were a quality empoloyer).
From my professional recruitment experience, quality employers don’t lie to get you to come into interview. Then on top of that, the questions they asked in my “interview” weren’t even standard interview questions, and thus, the interview wasn’t very structured or rigorous.
Conclusion: Be skeptical. If you’ve read this, and heard the script, and still want to go through with it, all the best to you. But be warned, The way that this company handles business is NOT professionally standard by any means. They ARE considered second rate (I might be generous with that comment) as CREDIT RATINGS have NOTHING to do with BUSINESS PRACTICE.
February 14th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Correction:
*AIL (AIL is NOT AIG–-although they went under, they were a quality empoloyer).
February 17th, 2009 at 2:48 am
Ok everybody knows that a career in sales is not for everyone, but like many of you I was called and told they saw my resume posted on a job-search site and wanted me to come in for an interview (a couple days from now). I’m trying to keep an open mind but the lady who called me didn’t say they were looking for people for commissioned sales positions, she said I’d be interviewing for a benefits coordinator. I have a lifelong friend who’s worked for a life insurance company in Kansas for many years so I called her and had her email me a position description for benefits coordinator and she compiled a list of descriptions from her company and 2 others in her area…all had their own wording but basically, it’s an office job, which is what I was looking for. Some of the ppl who’ve left comments here in favor of AIL are bashing others for not wanting to work hard & I hardly think that’s it all. I think AIL is recruiting people under false pretenses. I saw their listing under “customer service” on a job board, but if it’s sales, they need to just say it’s “sales” so those of us not interested in sales can walk on by…dang!
February 17th, 2009 at 11:46 am
I agree with everyone on here. I recently went interview for AFLAC (yes, the Duck company) They were going to PAY for me to go for 3 days to Nashville to get trained PLUS my license. There is NO reason why anyone should have to pay to work for someone (isn’t that the opposite achievement??????) I turned down the opportunity only because commission scares me and I’m not a salesperson, but if YOU are then, AFLAC is the way to go!!!!! The people backing up this AIL company MUST work for them and NEED recruits to make their money?????!!!!!!! I received an email from a lady in Memphis to contact her for an interview!! WTH?????? When I called at the specified time by her, all I got was an answering machine. HUH!!!!!!!!!!!!!???????????? Who runs a business like that???? Anywho, good luck to everyone, just thought I’d give my 2 cents!!
February 18th, 2009 at 7:34 am
I Love AIL. Success equals opportunity plus preparedness. The opportunities are limitless. Not everyone will succeed because not everyone is in a position of preparedness for it. Not only must you have the time to invest, but also be prepared mentally to be self motivated and determined. But I see success happen everyday in the NJ office. I am fairly new at the company. I see some people moving quickly and some slowly. Some with negative attitudes and some positive. But I notice that if the determination is there, they are positive and moving forward at a speed faster than possible in a corporate world. Most 9-5 jobs become stale because there is no movement and has limited earning potential. I haven’t seen a limit yet here. But if you are not willing to make an investment in time, in licensing fees and in yourself, why should the company make that investment in you? I have always felt that even the sky can’t hold me back. the sky’s no limit. There is nothing that I can’t accomplish or succeed in. So why hold a 9-5 job that imposes limits on when to work, how to work, how much I can make and what I am worth. Here at AIL, I decide what I am worth and I decide my limits. I guess that’s the only attitude difference between myself and everyone else who added a negative comment here.
February 18th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
I almost drove 70+ miles for an interview with these guys, and I’m glad I stopped by this site and a few others. When they first called me up, I asked if they were an MLM and if I had to pay money to join and the lady flat out lied. I saw this site and called her again before I hit the road and confronted her with what I found she started getting mad. Poor form.
February 19th, 2009 at 11:23 am
I so thankful for reading all of this. I am scheduled to attend one of their meeting tomorrow. I decide not to do so thanks to these testimonies. Thank you and good luck to all those looking for good Honesty work. Early
February 19th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
I like many of the other people who have submited responses had put my resume on Careerbuilder because some of the jobs I wanted to apply at required you submit your resume through them I have been a Realtor for a couple of years but with the slowing real estate market I decided to pursue a different avenue I have been interviewing with some insurance companies but through a employment agency so when this girl called and said they had gotten my resume off careerbuilder I did not think anything about it she indicated they were impresses with my resume and were eager to interview me i agreed as I did not have another appointment that day It was an hour drive to get there and then I had troublefinding the office as it was in an industrial complex that the addresses were not posted. As it were the girl who called gave me the wrong address and it was just lucky I found it The first thing the initial interviewer asked was had I looked them up on line befere coming in I said no but it made me think WHY HAD HE ASKED THAT Then he said if I had the time they would like to give me a presentation or OVERVIEW of the company The interview was over They put me in a room with 3 other people One was a young man just out of college and seeking his firt job another was a pharmacy tech with no sales experience and a girl who admitted she had no real sales experience I felt suspicious but went through the presentation anyway I did not feel comfortable when they said there would be some night work as we would be working with some factory workers who worked second and third shift when I asked about my territory they said that would be didcussed at a later time Then they started talking about training and having to be on call and drive to the office (an Hour away from my house) every day for no compensation because I wouold be making BIG money and it would be worth the time When the presentation was over they said they would be looking over our profiles and decide who would be a good fit for their company I left and called my husband from the parking lot and told him I did not feel like this was something I wanted to do. I drove home and got on the computer to check out why my instincts were rattled about this JOB OPPORTUNITY Then I found this site and WHEN they call to tell me I am a fit for their company I will PASS
February 19th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
I went to an interview today i am 20 years old and i was asked to come for a 3rd interview and now i am not going to go …. thanks all
something needs to be wrong when a 20 year old is in a room with 10-15 older professionals and he gets picked…
thanks all
and those of you who are kidding yourself saying that you like it Good luck being a*sholes at life
February 20th, 2009 at 10:35 am
JW, there are a million things that are different between “negative” people like me and yourself. “Negative” people like me are realists. We see the big picture. We realize AIL is just a stupid MLM that ropes in less educated “go-getters” and milks them for a few months until they quit. I find it hard to believe you read all the posts here and still want to hang around, but i guess i was as naive at one point in my life.
February 20th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
I am so thankful that I found this site. A few days ago I replied to a very ambiguous ad on Craigslist titled “Opening a New Division” offering fairly high salary 1st year and significantly more year 2-with full benefits and complete training. I received a call back quiet quickly to schedule an interview. That interview was scheduled for this morning. I realized that when I was called for the interview she never told me what the job was, asked me any questions or asked if I had any questions. After finding this site I sent her a quick email asking if she was looking to hire producing agents only or if she was also looking for management (which is the level I am looking for.) She called back and said they are looking for management, but everyone starts in the same place…..the bottom I guess! I read a previous post that mention that the job was “sold” to her as a benefits coordinator. Apparently AIL works with Union members to sell them supplemental benefits. Okay, so I cancelled my interview for today and like other posters the recruiter said “okay” like it was not a loss or surprise to her. Odd to me because my resume would be one that they would be flagging if they even looked at it. And quickly (or is it too late for that!) about the costs….I did not go to the interview or get hired so I do not know how they handle things is CA, but I did work for State Farm. They paid for my time to train, study for tests, paid for all tests, paid all travel/hotel/meals during trainings that they sent me to. That process was six months and EVERYTHING was paid for by them.
February 20th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
But…How is the Insurance itself?
I discovered my 84 year old Mother has this Insurance (AM Income Life). A small ($5.50)auto withdrawal is made monthly from her checking.
Hardly nothing…although she has been paying into it for 11 years! Hmm..12 mo. x 11 yrs. = 132 mo.s x $5.50 = $ 726.00.
DO they honor their commitments? - Thanks.
February 20th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Well, I read through the comments that others had submitted and yes took them into account.However, I like to find out for myself.Boy,was that an eye opener.first off,The company throws there usual line of B.S. big money,management,etc. The training seem to be adequate for the industry but the lack of ethics,lying staff,and pathetic ways in which these people get into a home is just wrong.I went out with a sales manager to observe and learn.It was just a waste of my time,the people were under the impression that the rep was just there to have them fill out a form for there free benefits(go figure)and the rest was down hill.
Late nights,12-13 hour days(no pay),addresses out in the middle of no where with people who simply cannot afford the product.I even went to a home where the call center had told them that they would be receiving a check due to a recent loss the family suffered.It was just a plot to get into the door and once we were in the door all hell broke loose when they discovered that they were not going to get paid what was promised them.
The next day or so I intently listened to the phone appointment setters and the truth was told through their bald face lying techniques.The main manager was always running his mouth at any and all who displayed any bit of individuality or had a rebuttle towards their methods.Basically, this man(if you want to refer to him as one) was a certified psychopath!!
I am not a perfect person but for the life of me I refuse to prey upon people for any reason.I am fortunate enough though to at least to have experienced this show as opposed to have passed without giving it a shot.and there is more but I hope you get the main theme.They should do ok though because there are plenty of uninfluenced 20′somethings and tons more people to prey upon.
Not only would I suggest that you avoid them but truly consider what is important when it comes to serving the general public.Simply put,Karma will eventually catch up to all no matter what script you can master or rebuttle you could rebuke.Think about it?If it was so great than everyone would be doing it right? I’d rather take my chances with stuffing letter/envelopes. Good luck for those who think they can cut the mustard.And make no mistake an A+ rating is only a financial standing and not means to measure the companies values,norms,or reasoning.I seen more than enough in the two long weeks it felk like there.Good luck!!!
February 21st, 2009 at 4:49 pm
I had a policy with American Income, and then i got hired on a few months later.
I now have been working with the company for 4 months, and i have never been happier.
I will say that this is one of the jobs that not alot of people can do.
It’ll either make you or break you.
I have been very successful.
The investment was worth it, the time was worth it, the drive was worth it. It was all worth it.
I’ve never made this much in my life. I plan on staying with them for a very long time.
So i guess the difference in all the bad comments, and the good ones is attitude and the will to succeed.
I was very skeptical at first too, but I decided to give it a shot and I am so glad I did.
February 22nd, 2009 at 9:29 pm
Unethical, but not a scam. not for nothing there are ads on craigslist right below AIL’s that say $20000 signing bonus immediately for part time work. Obvious scam. but ya know who it is trying to find people? The us govt. Specifically the national guard. Shadier than any other ad on there.
February 24th, 2009 at 6:38 am
Seems to me that this is a SCAM. I was contacted by someone from this company who said that he received a response from me from my e-mail account. NOT TRUE. I do not do business on e-mail with strangers anyway. Be aware of this as I feel it is fradulant.
February 24th, 2009 at 6:17 pm
Ha,
I have my MBA from UCLA and an engineering degree, am fully employed right now in a manager degree and was just sourcing for other opportunities in private equity. I do financial analysis/strategy work.
I got a call from this A$$hole. Wow. Word to the wise (from someone who makes decent money low 6 figures)…. this soundds like a crappy deal. Learn a skill and sell that. You’ll make more money faster than working for some craptastic company.
Sounds to me like this company is the AMWAY of insurance.
February 24th, 2009 at 6:44 pm
I had an interview with AIL today. I did have some reservations about their practices, so I looked at this website to get some information about the company.
There are some very serious charges as well as some heartfelt entries defending this company.
What I noticed most was that the vast majority of nay-sayers don’t know how to spell or speak English. They can’t put a sentence together and don’t even know that the personal pronoun “I” is supposed to be capitalized. On the other hand,for the most part, those defending AIL come across as much more intelligent and educated, if not just more experienced.
If the people who think AIL is a scam want to be taken seriously, they’ll need to remember that they’re not text-messaging their teenage friends.To them I say: You may have a valid point and you may be right (The jury’s still out on that matter), but I hesitate to take your word for anything when you come across as uneducated and ignorant. I wonder about your dedication to any job, when it’s obvious you didn’t make much of an effort in grammar school. Maybe the other people are right and you expected too much money for too little work.
February 25th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Wow, I’m so glad I found this site. A lady called me and said she found my resume on the website (monster) and asked if I wanted to come in for an interview. When I tried to find out what exactly the job was she couldn’t say. She led me to believe it was an HR Mgmt job. So I took it. They called me today to tell me that they want to give me a 3rd interview tomorrow so I set it up. THen I found this website. I’m definitely not going tomorrow. I was already feeling skeptical about it, but now I know for sure. Maybe it’s not a scam. I’m sure that if you are willing to work hard enough at it that you could do great. However, I’m not in the position to do that. I’m a mom and there are more important priorities in my life right now. Thanks for all the info!
February 25th, 2009 at 10:32 pm
I went through the whole motion of their “interview” process this morning, along with about 20 others. During the one-on-one, I mentioned that I already have my Group 1 (A,L,H & HMO) General lines license and I’m looking for a place to call home. I did not find them any different than other Insurance companies except at the end of the day.
I got 4 phone calls from a couple of their managers trying to close me hard on working for them. They both tried to see if I will tell them the other company I’m contemplating on working for so I just threw a company name out to see what they will do. Lo and behold! They did bad-mouth the other company.
No offense to current AIL employees. If upper management will go so low as bad-mouthing their competition just to hire somebody, what else would they do to get a sale? What happened to Business Ethics and Etiquette? Sorry but that was the straw that broke the camel’s back for me.
February 27th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
Chris (Post 287),
I doubt that you’ll return to read this, but just in case…
Like you, I have a top tier business education, mine being from UC Berkeley. Given that you have more experience and a higher degree, I can understand that you were looking for higher level finance (PE and such), but even for myself, I can appreciate and support what you have to say. I came out of our program when the unemployment rate was skyrocketing and job prospects seemed bleak-even for our program, employment-upon-graduation rates dropped by over half since the year prior. I left there discouraged, but still ambitious to find something. Long story short, I prospected and applied to any and all legit opportunities, and finally, a call came through in the financial service sector with a very respected employer. I was interviewed, and it being my first ever professional interview was nervous, and left there knowing I had given it my best, but still cautious, given the applicant pool. A day later, I went ahead and interviewed with AIL as they had contacted me a week earlier. I left the “interview” after the “personality test”, as from the get-go I just had a gut feeling that there was something unprofessional, illegitimate, and possibly unethical and illegal going on at the office. In the end, I ended up receiving an offer and accepting, and now work in the SF Financial District for a well-respected bank. Granted, it’s not exactly in the capacity that I would have liked, but given the economic environment, those jobs are few and far between, and typically always on the line. But in the meantime, I will receive legitimate training and experience for a top level firm, and eventually, as the economy recovers, I would love to move to the investment management/private equity side. But in the end, it was all about legitimate credentials and education, and personal persistence and marketing. Quality employment is difficult to achieve, but not impossible…even in these circumstances.
February 28th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Amen Travis, My husband has been working for AIl for 8 years and is now making $500.K a year. Working hard like you are supposed to do when you are an independent contractor. Some people just want everything done for them.
March 2nd, 2009 at 2:32 pm
I got a call this morning from AIL. Before I had even known where the company is located, what it’s name is, what it does, the position I was to be interviewed for, or why they wanted me I was asked for my first name and if 9:45 tomorrow morning would be a good time for an interview. I had already understood that this company is in need of a steady stream of employees. I gave the lady a load of questions; one of which being why her destrict manager liked my resume`. She responded with: “Your zip code”-Heather.
I understand that finding people with a power to tower over others is hard to find, and cold calling may be appropriate for this, but being informative and kind to your prospects would add more trust from AIL. I have experience in MLM structures, and it is hard if you do not DO IT.
My advice: When trying something new or taking chances, go to one interview and get a feel for the environment.
No matter what you choose to do, you need to know why your there to make it happen; and of course, believe you can handle whatever they dish out.
Chucki: This site we have been gifted with allows us to express opinion on our experience with the business world. To effectively express our opinions electronically we sometimes resort to improper sentence structure and spelling. I’m not trying to be a dick or argue; I am, in fact, on the same page as you when I read these comments. I do however read them intentively, for no matter what language or intelligence level, a human opinion is worth hearing; especially when looking at starting a new career.
March 4th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
I must say that I had the same frame of mind after reading these posts on this page. I had my first interview on Monday, March 2, 2009. A second interview on Tuesday, and my final interview Today. I was very skeptical after seeing all of these posts. So i decided to go with my own questions. I compiled a list in my head of aprox. 6 questions that i absolutely had to have answers for. I must say this… If you haven’t talked with them or did not go to an interview; then you really should not post comments about this business being a scam.
I am your “Average Joe”. I have never tried to make my way as a salesman. I worked a factory job in the Tool & Die field. I also ran a construction business for several years on the side to suppliment my income for those extra’s that I wanted. I have always been a hard worker and spent quite a bit of time working long hours. I did it around my children’s schedules so that i could spend time with them trying to repair damage from a very nasty divorce; that i didn’t even want at the time. I have always supported my children and family that i now have also. If i put my name on it; then i did it to my satisfaction; not stopping when others said, “That’s good enough!” or “It’s not the space shuttle!” To me; everything that i do for myself or for someone who is paying for quality work; “It is the Space Shuttle (so to speak)!”
I talked with with a man named Tod Brown. He asked me question, and I in turn asked him questions. I did tell him that i am very adamant about my time with my children; which isn’t much (1 night through the week and every other weekend). I explained to him that i would have to stand my ground on that; because without my children’s time, I was not worth much. I have been that route, and would never return to it until my children were in college or on their own. I Have to have that balance between career and parenting with no exception. I was quite suprised when he seemed to understand that. Not only did he understand it, but he related a bit of his own story to me. To sum it up; we came to a mutual agreement tht this was not the best time for me to jump in with both feet in a commission based market. I want to add that i am up for any challenge; at anytime. As i was walking toward the door; he handed me a business card. With a handshake, smile, and the words “I would love to see someone like you back in my office as soon as you are ready, and you have an open invitation to come.” I left.
Thinking about it; I felt absolutely no pressure from anyone at anytime. I was not treated inferior in any way at anytime. I was only treated with respect as a human being. I was never told, “this might not be for you.” I was not treated any other way from when i walked in the first day until i walked out today. I also did hear 3 different people on the phone in the rooms next to the waiting are. They were conducting business, and I did hear one dealing with one of the sales people. I heard absolutely nothing but respectful business-like conduct during that call.
It left me wondering if this company hadn’t just made some bad choices in who they let run their business in some area’s. I can say this… If you have rotten apple’s on different branches of an apple tree; Do you cut down the whole tree? Maybe the people with these bad experiences should call the main office and report these things.
If they are guilty of anything thus far; it is being vague on the job. If you do your job; which they invite you to do; then you will ask the questions necessary to determine if this is for you.
I interviewed at the Binford Commons, Suite A, Indianapolis, IN.
I would like to quote something my Grandfather told me years ago; It was simple and true. “Everyone has something to teach you; It’s your job to determing if it is good or bad!”
Thanks to everyone for the comments and advice.
March 5th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
wow….. i cant believe there are places/jobs like this. i recieved a call from a representative around 4pm offering me a job interview… di que life insurance and supplemental help b.s she didnt even talk about what i would be doing… anyways ive been so desperate for a job that of course i accepted the interview.. but never mind all this im not going there asking for money up front what makes them think i have the money if im looking for a job. dumb a** ppl. i swear
March 7th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Well I got an Email today and decided that I would check them out. I agree if you need to be licensed you must pay for the training. I’m am a licensed millwright and machinist.Granted I worked during my apprenticeships but when it came to my several weeks of trade school it cost me dearly.
Now before anyone says why are you not working I suggest you read the business section of your papers.
How they decided I would be a good associate for them by reading my resume is beyond me. There was nothing about sales but I do have many years of supervision.
Thanks for all the information and after reading here I have decided I do not want to be in sales for anyone.
March 8th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
I’ve seen several comments on here about how the company should pay for the training. But being an employee of the company, I know exactly what the training entails. I was hired over a month ago and am the last one standing out of 6 people that were hired in with me. So think about this, that’s 1 in 6 people that stick with the company…so why would the company invest in the training. I’m more determined to get out there and sell because it’s my money that was invested…not the company’s. So when you see a room full of people, it’s because they have to keep recruiting in order to build a good solid team. And when I say 1 in 6 stick, it’s not because the company itself is horrible; it’s because it’s not a job for everyone. Is it tough…hell yeah! It’s very challenging, yet extremely rewarding. The money is there to be made. So don’t be scared to invest in your future. If you are, then simple, don’t apply.
March 8th, 2009 at 11:04 pm
Woah man!!! F this s$*t. Thank you for your help. I got a card today and was thinking about given the guy a call. But I wanted to check it out before anything. I worked for a Level 1 Enterprises that is pretty much the same and I only lasted a couple months. It was all commission and at least 60 hrs a week was put into it. For anyone that think their on the right track. Of course there is money to be made. But do you think the money is out there??? Lol, HELL NO!!! It’s a fail…..
March 9th, 2009 at 9:34 am
Wow! I have read a lot of comments on this site and my opinion is how can all these people be wrong about this company? Of coarse people will stick with the company if you have to pay out of pocket to start! In times like these no one has money to put upfront for a job, why do you think we’re looking for a job? I am so thankful for this site. My interview with this company was in 2 hours of me finding this site and will not go to the interview. I knew something was strange when the woman couldn’t tell me about the company and what they were looking for. She told me it was up to me they’re looking for leadership, HR, sales and customer service. WTF!! I don’t need another pyramid scam to tell me how to make money. Whatever happened to the old days when you got hired on for a company after the probation period they paid for your training? I wouldn’t have minded paying for a license after the probation period and that way i can know more about the company to see if it was a good fit for me, but to know nothing and just go by what they say is sad without you developing your own opinion! Thanks Again!!!
March 9th, 2009 at 10:10 am
Im curious after reading all of these postings. Most of them talk about working as an insurance salesmen so to speak and paying up front costs to start with the company. I applied for a position thru Monster.com which stated it was for accounts receivables and accounts payable. I have an interview set up for wednesday….any thoughts on this job aspect for AIL? I am a single mom with two girls….i can not afford to switch jobs and it be a scam. If anyone has worked in this aspect for the company or knows someone who has please give me your input. Thanks.
March 9th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
I received a phone call this morning from American Income - the lady on the voicemail said “xxxx, this is xxxx from American Income, I’m calling because you posted a resume online. If you are still interested, please give me a call back at xxx-xxx-xxxx. And remember, ask for xxxx.”
So I called, and she asked me about five questions: 1) What is your name, 2)what is your email address, 3) your phone number, 4) are you currently employed, 5) what kind of work are you looking for? She briefly told me that they work for Labor and Credit Unions, are international, and they are looking for sales and management positions. Then immediately set up an interview for tomorrow. I, like a few other people on here, went ahead and scheduled the interview because I’ve been out of work for 5 months now and need a job. I should have looked them up before calling her back, because now I see my hunch about this being if-y was correct and I will be canceling my interview.
I did ask her where she saw my resume and she said that they did not actually see it, but that they get told it was posted to the Career Builder Resume Bank online. Ugh! I should have known.
Thanks everyone, for your comments.
March 9th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
I wanted to check in again quickly before I delete this post from my “favorites”. As I mentioned before, I have never worked for AIL, nor did I choose to waste my time with an interview. But I see a pattern that may bring some closure to this debate. I have NO idea about the MLM thoughts about AIL, but it does seem to me that they will bring anyone on board that has a pulse. As one poster mentioned, he is one out of six hired that is still working with AIL-trying to justify their policy of not paying for training. Perhaps if AIL worked harder at choosing the right candidates and was more upfront with their business practices then they wouldn’t have such turnover.
March 9th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
I have a ferrari dipped in gold you a**holes Hahahaha I have an amzing life! You can’t tell if I’m verifiable or not. Who cares who we step on hahahah! Love your evil empire for only 19.95 call today and you can have a huge headache and be completely broke for no shipping costs. Oh and All Americans are just losers and have no motivational drive for superior sales techniques Hahaha you puny ingrates, sell at AIL and be a winner not a whiner! F*** tell ya what won’t be going to that interview wednesday wether this is truly legit or not. This was the funniest posting I have read and wow you can tell who is defending their guilt!
March 10th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
@ Tim: Good for you. And let me also say, you’re a minority. I DID work at AIL IN the “main” office, and I can tell you from firsthand experience it wouldn’t have helped you ONE BIT to voice your concerns to anyone, because their only response was, “You’re not trying hard enough.” I knew fellas that spent 12-16 hours per day out in the field 6 days a week. Are you gonna tell me they didn’t try hard enough?? I actually felt sorry for the “potential new hires.” They were screwed long before they ever walked through the door. The company is completely worthless unless your integrity meter sits at zero.
March 10th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
I am grateful to everyone who has taken the time on this blog and the 2 previous ones I read.
It seems to me the only people defending this company (prob “higher” ups trying to keep ppl flooding in) are using the same foolish mentality that everyone is complaining about and thus justifies everyone’s complaints.
I am separating from the military in a month and am in desperate need for a job, I have been searching endlessly for 2 weeks now with no luck. The only call I have received was today from these people. I was fairly excited, but since the woman would give me no info over the phone and insisted I showed up tomorrow for an interview, I got a little weary and turned to the web. Thank god. So now I had to make my resume private to ease HA’s from weak ass companies like this.
My only regret is that I really can’t afford the gas to drive an hour each way to have someone question my work ethic so I can punch em in the throat, then tell him to put it on the tab of every sales rep they’ve ever treated like a rat in a cage so the 1 can profit while the other 9 struggle.
March 11th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
yeah…i didnt go. thanks
March 11th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
i bought the insurance now that i didn’t pass a physcial i can’t recoupe my money back from the company! i have had to fax bank statements bank information the man who sold me the policy keeps giving me excuses. he said yesterday he would come by today and pay me my money back in cash i have not even gotten a phone call from him let alone any money. anyone know who to report this and where? i am interestered in getting my money back from this man. help me out there please!
March 12th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
I received a phone call today. My interview is scheduled for tomorrow. I was told my resume was pulled from Monster, to dress professionally, bring a crispy new resume and if I wanted to know anything about the company I was to look on line. I asked questions regarding the job position, didn’t really get any answers to my questions, however I got the impression that this strickly a sales position. Guess what, I have NO sales experiance. I will not be going on this interview tomorrow. Thanks for everyone’s insight.
March 14th, 2009 at 5:20 am
How interesting.
I work for AIL, and have for a few months. I paid for courses in obtaining my license. I compared rates with other exam companies. It was right on. I paid for my testing.
When I was in college for my AA, and training to be a Medical Coder I paid about 13,000 dollars. 300 dollars for training did not seem like much in comparison.
When I owned my own business (A UPS Store in Spokane Washington) I spent thousands of dollars to ‘start out’. We took home six figures. I moved to Hawaii to be closer to my family, and looked for a job. I found AIL.
I drive a 2001 VW Jetta because it’s reliable. My husband a 2001 Toyota Camry because it’s reliable. We also did own a 2006 Ford Mustang for fun but it was not practical on the island. Cars do not make the person. I spend my money on my children, their education, happiness, and so forth… not a fancy car that will be worthless in a year.
In my first week of working on my own (which admittedly took some time to get going) I made about 200 dollars. The second week I made about 800 dollars. The third week I made about 1,200 dollars. The fourth about 1,000 dollars.
I never ever call anyone that hasn’t been contacted about the company to book an appointment. I never lie to a customer. In the first month of working I took home 3,200 dollars. The second month I took home over 8,000 dollars.
Since I am the only one working to support my family currently I work six days a week. My mother taught me ‘If it is worth having it is worth earning.’. It isn’t always easy, but it surely is not impossible.
I was told flat out it was sales. I was told flat out it was commission. I am friends with someone who makes around four thousand dollars a week, and she does work hard. She also knows in nine years she will never have to work again.
I have always had support.
I have always had training.
I have always had understanding.
I work less at this job than owning my own business. (Which was 6am to 10pm)
I work less at this job than when I am being a mother. (Which is 24/day)
I have time with my family.
All my supplies in the office are free.
I never had to pay for a ‘lead’.
I never had to ‘harass’ people to be seen.
I never have to drive more than 45 minutes from my home for an appointment.
I won a free trip to Maui. (I live on Oahu.)
And believe it or not I don’t really care about the money. Money is a nice thing to have but really isn’t the key to happiness. Ladies, Gentlemen, the wonderful thing about Money is … you can always earn more. The keys to success are simple : Confidence, Persistence, and doing what you love.
Why I work for AIL is because I genuinely get to help people. I see people with dollar signs in their eyes. I have never sold a policy to someone who was not interested or could not afford it. I have taken food to families in need. I have helped people who never bought anything from me move to a new house. I look forward to being able to field calls at 2am from my clients because they -know- I will be there to help them.
What did this cost me?
Less than my college education that got me nowhere.
Less than the coding and license fees for being a Medical Coder.
Less than starting and running my own business.
I had to learn a script, yes. But this is sales. We all learn ‘scripts’ from “Hello welcome to McDonalds would you like to try a combo meal?” to “Thank you for calling Suncoast Motion Picture Company where you can reserve a copy of Ironman.”
Personally I don’t mind learning a script, if it is effective (and it is!) and I enjoy working for this company. My co-workers are simply amazing, the training team is phenomenal, and I am learning a lot. I am helping a lot of people, and making many friends if they are my clients or not. When I leave a house people thank me for coming. Always.
Perhaps my office is a bit different than these other offices, or my managers different, or my experience different. Mine was a good one. Is it hard work? Yes. But no one ever told me it would be easy. Are there long hours? Yes. But if you can find me another job that can pay me more than 8,000 dollars for a month of work (Around thirty six dollars an hour) for helping people, and simply talking to them, I’d still say ‘no’. I enjoy the company.
If you don’t like working 50 hours a week, then this likely is not a job for you. I truly wonder how many of these people also signed up for the little side ads on “FaceBook” to get rich sitting at home in their pajamas writing Google Ads or something. If they expected a get rich quick plan. It is not a nine to five job. If you want a consistent pay-check it might not be the job for you. If you do not work well without stark administration over you, this is not for you.
I will continue to work with this company, and I really feel bad for people who had horrible experiences. I, however, did not.
Mahalo!
March 14th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
I became an insurance producer after a layoff from specialty chemical sales.
AIL obfuscated or downright lied about income potential. I stayed three months, at which I was at the break-even point for my licensing expenditures. I had to move on, as the promised growth did not appear in the near future when there are bills pay. I bonused, so don’t tell me I had no ability in insurance sales. I never minded cold calls before AIL. Having visited numerous potential customers who asked me about the AIL rep whom they saw two months ago, it really sank in that AIL is just a job turnstyle.
One of my gripes is their constantly telling me that I am an independent businessman, then dictating my time, minute to minute. That time also included spending hours on the phone recruiting from resumes culled from web sites. If a company orders you what to do and when, then you are an employee.
It might be suitable for some, but judging from my own experiences which mirror multitudes of others, AIL is a terrible place to work.
March 16th, 2009 at 11:14 am
Thanks for the postings, all. I have an interview tomorrow in mpls I will NOT be attending.
March 16th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Thanks Mimi! I am currently studying now for life and health licensing.. I am positive and look forward to it.. I don;t wish to put in 50 hours a week, however will work hard to achieve success for sure. I so far, have not have any negative experience, but lots of learning.
March 16th, 2009 at 11:18 am
i worked for ail for 3 months in mid 2008, ail itself is NOT a scam!! i repeat, ail itself is NOT a scam. if you are willing to work hard and forgo a social and family life, you will succeed. i am not defending the people on here who tried and failed and are angry at the company for not succeeding when in fact they should be angry at themselves for not seeing it coming. i am one of those people so i feel your pain. its not like i didn’t make any money, i bonused nearly every week i worked there, but the lying and deceit of hard working union members eventually got to me. i couldn’t deal with the fact that when people on the phone asked me if i was going to sell them something, that my rga (todd engelson) would tell me to say oh no, im just here to deliver your no-cost union benefits. if ail were more clear from the start, which they were not at all with me, about what people have to do as far as being dishonest and disingenuous with the people they serve, then ail would be a great company. i still maintain contact with my rga, partner, sga, and the majority of my co-workers (though most of them have moved on) and there are no hard feelings. if you are willing to work your ass off and have absolutely no problems lying through your teeth 12 hours a day, then get ready for success at ail!!!
best regards!
March 17th, 2009 at 12:04 am
i HAD THEM COME TO MY HOUSE AND PITCH TODAY. THE DOUCHE BAG SAID HE WAS A MANAGER. OMG HE WAS SO RUDE. I TOLD HIM I WAS NERVOUS BUYING LIFE INSURANCE CAUSE I HAD A FRIEND’S HUSBAND DIE RIGHT AFTER SHE BOUGHT IT …AND HE WAS LIKE SORRY TO BURDT YOU BUBBLE BUT YOUR CRAZY.. AND THEN WHEN WE TOLD HIM WE WERE NOT INTRESTED CAUSE HE PITCHED ME IN FRONT OF MY KIDS FOR 30 MIN WHILE I ATE DINNER ….HE LEANED OVER AND SAID I HOPE YOUR HUSBADN DOES NOT DIE TOMORROW AND WALKED OUT MY FRONT DOOR.. I HONESTLY AM HAPPY MY HUSBAND DID NOT ASSULT THE MAN WHO SAID THIS IN FRONT OF MY 6 YR OLD AND 4 YR OLD.. NEVER NEVER WILL I DO BUSNIESS WITH THIS COMPANY …IF YOU SEE THERE NAME RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 17th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
They just called me to come in for an interview. The guy over the phone wouldn’t even tell me the name of the company that he wanted me to come in for an interview. The way he sounded seemed funny so later I called back and got the name of the company. I found this site, thank you for the warning. I’m not going to waste my gas and time going to this company.
March 17th, 2009 at 11:13 pm
So glad I found this site, won’t be wasting my time going to San Jose to interview.
March 18th, 2009 at 2:46 am
nternet related scams and fraud have plagued all corners of the world. With new resources and fresh weapons in their armory, conmen might be emboldened to act out their scams even more convincingly, especially of the Phishing and Nigerian scams variety.
March 18th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
do any of you who worked or currently working at ail know if once you are contracted with them do they enforce cancelling your current appointments with other insurance carriers as far as health and life companies you may be currently contracted with?
March 19th, 2009 at 11:23 am
I have read many of the post and find most of them not correct. I have worked in sales/commissoned sales for many years. As most commission sales people know, the interviews are like cattle calls because most people can or will not preform well without a structured work schedule and therefore they will fail at commission sales jobs. As for the up front cost, you have to have a license to sale insurance. I went to the “cattle call” already having my license (which did cost me $51 to test, $25 background check, $20 to apply and $35 for a exam cram book) I did not take any study class. AIL did not ask me for any money to work for them. So far I have worked for AIL for 3 weeks; the first week was training, 2nd wk I made $250, 3rd wk $400. As for the leads, some of them are old and some are not. In sales it is up to you to make your paycheck, not someone else. And yes- you have to be a contracted agent, you can not work for anyone else. Any company that gives you any type of leads will do the same. Lets face it, insurance sales is all about renewals and when do you become 100% vested, with AIL it is 10 years and then you can retire. And all sales is the art of the hustle, why does anyone buy anything, because you never know what will happen tomorrow and sometimes it takes strong words to make someone realize/ think about what is important to them and their family. Good luck to all, and if you need structure (ie: 9-5 office job) in your work day, then commission sales is not for you, you will fail.
March 19th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
Ail would never advise to cancel any insurance. This is a great company and not a scam… if you are are good at what you do you will make money. I am simply an agent not a manager and make over $100,000 per year. Most of these negative responses sound like bad management which is not out of the question. My entry cost was $75, yeah not $700 and definitely not outrageous. This may seem like a crazy concept but, Hard work + Talent= Money. E
March 20th, 2009 at 4:58 pm
Good posts and I agree. I have been offered the position, but they want me to cancel all of my other current appointments with other carriers and i pay for my own leads to write on my own. I liked the free lead program they had so thats why i applied and am willing to take a lower commission for that free lead program, but i don’t think i should have to cancel my other appointments in case i ever want to run them on my own dime, just in case this doesn’t work out with AIL. Don’t they have some kind of non-compete letter i can sign that says i won’t put their leads anywhere but with AIL. I should be able to do what I want with my own leads that I pay for.
March 21st, 2009 at 9:38 pm
I have an interview next week. I am reading everyone’s posts and I want to think that I could make it in this job. Hey, Mimi in Hawaii, you still around? My husband and I own our own business and work 60+ hours already-and we are barely making it. I have a background in sales and want to be successful like Mimi. Anybody have anything positive to say?
March 21st, 2009 at 10:52 pm
thank you Moby!
March 24th, 2009 at 12:55 am
well, there’s the bad, and there’s the good. i ahh got hired after the same 3 interviews that everyone else went thru. they also asked me for $715, which i dont have at the moment, but i did give up $186 for my online course and cram class. my gf is paying over $10,000 for school so $715 doesnt seem to bad. i do have sales experience, i have worked commissions only, but when i was hired it still seemed a bit fishy. for one, supposedly out of 400 applicants, only 3-4 were getting hired,for two, the guy right before me was hired and then of course i was hired as well, three, the guy interviewing me seemed really nervous, shaking and mixing up words. so the hr lady called me and asked how i was doing on my online course and if i could pay them the remainder of the start up fee, i answered. then asked “how many people you guys end up hiring?” she quickly replied “why!?” i didnt know what to say, and now i see this page with all these testimonials and i am thinking that i might have made a mistake… is there a better way to find out how these guys work? i mean most of the people on here are not even employed, they just were approved for an interview. all i would like are some truthfull answers. thanx
March 24th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
maka, turn away and do not look back. i contracted with AIL for about 4 months and it was the worst experience of my life. I even did well according to them.
March 26th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
My boyfriend called me all excited to go into work a little later than I should SATURDAY because some guy from the Cerritos, CA area is coming to interview us. We live in Santa Barbara county, about a 3 hr drive away from where this “AB” guy was coming from. My boyfriend ranted on and on that our friend had referred us and we qualified for UNION BENEFITS and something about $2000? After I heard that I was $_$ ahha, at the same time it seemed too good to be true. I asked my bf for the number of this guy, and his name. I called and he didn’t pick up. He called back and explained to me about this insurance and some CHILD SAFE KIT. I was still iffy about it, I even asked him if this was fraud or some kind of hoax. As I was talking to him, I was surfing the web and stumbled upon this. Furious, I called him back and told him all about what I was reading.. how it was MLM and I’d rather not have anything to do with this. LOL.. He was getting pissed and interrupting me and telling me I’m missing out. I told him that’s fine. I have insurance, I have a job and to never call me or my boyfriend ever again. THE END. hhaha THANKS FOR HAVING THIS SITE UP. REALLLLY HELPED!
March 27th, 2009 at 9:17 am
does anyone have access to their local office here in CA or a ph#number to this company thats not a cell# of an anonomous person that claim they’re an agent working for this company Waco, Tx
March 27th, 2009 at 10:32 am
In rural Montana there is a fellow calling from AI to homes with children saying he is representing the Internaitonal Police Association and needs an appointment in your house to offer free Child ID Kits.
Some research and a call to the local Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the guy is an insurance salesman. But several counties in the area are investigating the approach because it involves the offer of free ID kits for tracking children.
Once in the home, the offer of insurance policies is made, and at least one individual in my town successfully sued AI because of its lack of fulfillment of policy agreements.
Stay clear!
March 29th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
You know when I started to work for Ail I saw the site read through it and did not want to believe it. I am not going to lie when I was there I made great money more than I have ever made. It was a good oppurtunity but because of one of the managers there that did not like me i got let go. It was not because I am lazy I worked every day including sunday. They told me they would pay me my checks and didn’t. I finally realized why my office is so small this manager was getting everybody fired. I asked myself why would she do that then it was plain as day my production went under her name she got all the renewals for my hard work. To anyone looking to get hired there I am not saying dont do it. If I had to start everything over I would do the same thing. My recommendation is to attach urself to the ppl that are making big money and do as they do. I am with a bigger better company now but i thought they were more ethical than that.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:45 pm
I was called for an interview with AIL in the past week so I drove a ways to interview. I was told on the phone to bring questions that I may have so that I could ask them. I had the interview and was told that they wanted me back for a second interview, a company overview the next day. I was so happy! I’m a college student graduating this May looking at the current economic recession and pleased to get an interview. I scheduled a second interview with them the next day and was told that then I’d be able to ask questions so make sure to bring them.
I went, missing classes in order to do so. The group of people were very diverse. One person was a bartender looking to get a new job, which surprised me considering this was a sales job. The two people doing the presentation were young, good looking individuals proclaiming how AIL is the best kept secret and yahoo has rated it the #1 insurance company to work for. I’m skeptical. I went through the second interview, where they had us fill out a personality tests. At the end, they said you could stay after to finish the test. I wanted to go up front to thank the presenters for their time but before I knew it, they had left the room, within 3 minutes of ending the presentation, leaving those left to finish their P.T. in the room, and the presenters no where to be found. Again though, no time for questions. We were told if we get called back for a third interview, THEN we can ask our questions.
What gets me is the appearance that they don’t want you to ask questions. I left the overview of the company still with a lot of questions!
I know there are people on both sides of the fence on this company right now. For me, if they call back for a third interview, I do not plan on taking my time to go through with it, I’d rather search for other jobs. I just do not feel that moving to be closer to this job, which entails my fiance losing his job which is great, in order for me to take a job which seems to have such a high turnover rate does not seem real to me. The money to relocate only to have a good possibility of quitting is not worth it for me!
March 31st, 2009 at 6:42 am
Thank GOD for this website. I received a call from this company (via a resume posting on CareerBuilder) and they wanted me to come in for an interview this morning, which I called and canceled before they opened.
It was for a sales/supervisory position which sounded very attractive; however, I was somewhat suspicious because as we all know the job market is dismal, to be charitable. Why would they call and want to schedule an interview with me to do a job for which I have no experience when there are a bazillion better-qualified people who are out of work they could hire?
It has just become crystal-clear.
Thank you posters, webmasters & everyone else involved with exposing this!
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:40 pm
All of you people complaining have no idea what your talking about AIL payed for all my expenses before I started working for them and now I make a six figure salary just because you cant do something dont complain!!!
April 6th, 2009 at 1:28 am
Same shit happened to me here in los angeles. They claimed to only have one office in California and they were “expanding”. Haha even the lady that interviewed me seemed like a good actress and even came on to me , flirted a little and even picked a piece of lint I had in my hair( which I found weird, never had a job interview where I’ve got touched in a flirtatious manner other than a handshake) the office number in CA is 562-929-7559
April 6th, 2009 at 10:28 am
I just paid for my course, I am getting a little worried. After I get my licence can I just not take the job? or is there some stupid contract I have to sign and what can I do with the licence? Can I get employment elsewhere? I am totally freaked out by all this.
April 7th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
I am so glad I read the previous comments listed here about AIL. I am from Houston TX. I was about to go to an interview. I just called and canceled after reading these comments. I thought I felt funny when I have an accounting background and the positions she mentioned I KNOW I do not qualify for nor do I have experience with insurance. I had to google the name of the company to find out what they are about. All the rep told me was she found my resume and her company was called American Income and she did not answer any of my other questions she was rushing to set me up for an interview. Thanks for all the comments on here. I am not going to make the mistake of finding out the hard way.
April 7th, 2009 at 5:42 pm
IM HAPPY THAT MY PARENTS DID THE RESEARCH BEFORE I PAYED MY MONEY BEFORE I GOT LICENSED. BECAUSE I WENT THROUGHT 3 INTERVIEWS AND THEY TOLD ME I WAS THE TOP 3 THAT THEY WANTED BUT IM HAPPY I DIDNT GO THREW WITH EVERYTHING. THANK YOU FOR THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
April 7th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
First of all I have been in the insurance business for long time and there are a couple of things you need to know when looking into this career option. First of all some companies pay for training & license, some do not. I always give applicants a series of test to help determine if they can pass the license exams, if they do well enough, I will pay for their license fees & classes required prior to siting for the exam. I also provide a base salary for the first year of $25,000.00 to help them get going. If anybody ever tells you that you will do anything other than starve your first year IT IS A LIE!!!! This is a very hard industry to break into, especially in this economy. That brings me to another point, most insurance companies are also broker/dealers (they sell investments). I hear a lot of folks I interview tell me that they have been told this economy is a great time to start in this business because of all the people who are losing and/or changing jobs have 401k’s to “roll over” into IRA’s. This is a load of CRAP! Most people are living off their 401k’s to survive. That said, there is a lot of investment business to be had out there, if the company you are looking into offers insurance only and is not a broker/dealer - walk away you are wasting your time. It all boils down to this all the income potential you are getting promised is possible. I have made HIGH six figures for the last 15 years, I starved for my first 3 years in the business, If I had not also had P&C I would not have made it. I work a minimum of 60 hours a week, and I have 5 marketing assistants who make 100% of my prospecting & appointment setting calls. You need to understant that you can not count on ANY INCOME AT ALL for at least TWO YEARS!!! If you can survive & are willing to put in the time you can make a lot of money. This is not a good career choice for someone needing immediate income, or who will be the sole or main support of a family during your first 2 years. As far as companies who do not pay for licenses & training, no body paid for my MBA does that mean the first company I worked for scamed me for not hiring me without one? I happen to pay for my new hire licenses, but that’s just me I also typically interview 50+ people for every new agent I hire. Good luck to all, and remember this is the hardest job you will ever have. It can also be the most rewarding. Those telling you it can be done part time or even in 40hrs a week are not giving you an accurate picture of things. Another question to ask is how are leads generated? This is important you need to have a good referral gathering system in place from day one OR YOU WILL FAIL!
April 8th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
I want to share my experiences:
I worked for American Income back in 1995 straight out of college. The job market in RI was God awful and this sounded like a great opporturnity. But things really didnt pan out.
Yes; there is opporturnity but you are probably going to have to build business yourself. I went thru training; got my licence and hit the field and made some sales. But it was really really hard going. Some bullet points to keep in mind:
1. You are going to end up calling on and being referred to union members. Please do some research: Unions have been declining for some time so the amount of leads are decreasing. I had a hell of a time getting sales as all my leads had been hit up several times. If a lead has been presented to 5 times is that really a lead? Or a waste of time? You tell me.
2. Business expenses are YOUR responsibility (gas, suits, etc). How about lunch? They would have me calling on retirees during the day.
3. You will be hitting people on nights and weekends; so you wont have that time as free. The senior agent I worked for didnt even have time to get a present for his cousin’s birthday. Expect really really long hours. You’ll get home after 11pm every night. Also you may end up in bad areas of town…at night….alone…wearing a suit. I was selling in some bad areas in Providence RI. I didnt have a problem but please keep in mind you have no control where you are going to make a pitch.
4. Mat makes a good point above: you only have life insurance to sell. You cant compete with Ameriprise, Fidelity etc. So it really puts you at a disadvantage.
April 15th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
I recieved a phone call saying i had a job interview for a company I’ve never heard of & wasnt told what position I would be interviewd for. I am no were near qualified so I thought it would be wise to reasearch this company.. I am very glad I did because I am not intereted in selling anything to anyone nor will I pay someone else to work for them….This is crazy
April 20th, 2009 at 4:28 pm
Thank god I checked this out. I just made the interview like 30 mins ago and I would have went for the interview if I could. but from what I read I realize that they never did tell me what position I would be going in for and I don’t remember applying for the job in the first place.
I did find it funny how they called me last week but I couldn’t reach them to call them back. This explains that reason. Anyone remember the name of the girl that called them?
April 20th, 2009 at 11:05 pm
I work for AIL and love my job. It is a difficult job, and I do make good money, but most of all I feel like I help families every day. People thank me, are happy to see me, and i think it’s a rewarding job.
April 22nd, 2009 at 11:08 am
Always suspicious about unsolicited offers of incredible riches, I knew from the moment the email arrived in my “junk mail” that this was a tad unscrupulous. I have been downsized for about a month. I am a senior management type making close to or over $100k for the past 10 years or so. I had Sales Managers working for me. I know the games that slime balls play because I fired enough low-life fast talking scammers when I was forced to clean up someone else’s mess.
I appreciate that commissioned sales is a hard career and those who work hard do well - in time. And to be honest, a lot of the complaints are from ex-agents so we need to temper their vitriol. However, what everyone should pay close attention to are the posts from hiring agents on this site and others whose postings are too accurate, too detailed to be misinterpreted. While not a scam per se, AIL is definitely slimy in the first degree. When any business has the turnover they report, all is not well in Denmark and this apple appears rotten to the core. No one, and I mean no one, hires en masse and is in a constant hiring mode regardless the economic conditions. No one - so don’t be a damned fool and open your eyes and minds to common sense.
Commissioned sales people who are desperate and under tremendous pressure to pay bills and deliver to their superior will make irresponsible and outright fraudulent claims to make money. This does not excuse their behaviour but helps to explain why this company has such a huge following of dissatisfied posters. The overwhelming majority of new recruits is totally screwed from moment one in this type of deceitful environment.
The gullible and desperate will always be ripe for the siren’s song of untold riches but there are easy to spot signs if you care to look. A little advice from someone who has dealt with reputable successful professionals over the years: take the time to drive through the parking lot prior to joining a company. If the lot has clunkers aplenty, no one is making money. If the vehicles are newer, of better makes and clean inside/out you are dealing with successful individuals. If the office does not appear to be updated but rather tired and thrown together, run - Fortune 500 companies do not operate under such auspices. If your recruiter appears to be Doogie Hawser who fidgets or refuses to answer their “hand-picked cream of the crop” recruit questions BEFORE you start - RUN. Most people will recognize off the rack 2-for-1 cheap suits and people making 6-figures do not wear cheap suits. If you see the same tie your 6-figure mentor is wearing hanging off the rack at Walmart or Target, he’s either really cheap or he’s broke - go with broke. Also, check their shoes. If you know what I mean you will know a successful person does not wear worn out, unpolished or casual shoes with a suit. Highly successful people will always want to look like a million bucks to instill confidence in their ability and the company they represent because in sales, your image and word are everything.
Not always fool proof but if it smells like garbage chances are it is garbage.
For the record, I told them to piss off in no uncertain terms. Caveat emptor.
April 22nd, 2009 at 5:26 pm
To all of those people who say that paying for your testing, classes, fingerprinting, etc… is a normal thing in the financial services industry, they are right. Of course, they are only right when you are doing it on your own. I have a series 24, 63 and my insurance license… all testing and classes paid for by my firm. NEVER PAY FOR A JOB OFFER. Just out of curiosity AIL, what happens if they pay that money and they fail the exam? SCAM
April 22nd, 2009 at 7:12 pm
If it’s too good to be true, then it is…Look up Primerica, a citigroup company. Same thing. And yes, companies will pay for a license. I am senior finance student. I have researched this extensively. I have also sold real estate. Yes, you do pay for your license, but NO ONE at the real estate office ever tells you how much you are going to make. They let you understand from the beginning that you most likely will not make much money in the beginning. They tell you to have at least 6 months of living expenses in the bank before starting. Reputable employers do not have to have extensive marketing schemes for their company.
April 22nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm
I just did some research online on this company…above it mentions that the company has been in business for 50 years, however I just ran across some information that seems to indicate the Torchmark Corp. (of which AIL is a subsidiary, aquired by Torchmark Corp. in Nov. 1994) was incorporated in December of 1979…What gives?
Why all this “cloak and dagger” maneuvering if the company and it’s business is legit.?
Why not tell the “interviewees” (which are those people that the corp. found online at monster.com doing one of their searches for “new prospects”) which job openings are actually available?
As our grandparents used to tell us:
1) If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
2) Honesty is the best policy.
3) An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
So, do your OWN research, check out prospective employers (especially if their package looks “too pretty”), reschedule an interview if needed (if they are truly interested in you, they will wait a day or two while you look at the company and what it stands for)!
In today’s tight economy, don’t waste your resources (especially your hard earned savings) without knowing what you get yourself into. Get the training offer, etc. in writing! No LEGITIMATE employer will shy away from spelling out the terms of employment!
Ask questions, and, if you are not getting the answers you need, walk out to look for some (ligitimate) solid employment! A ligitimate employer will let you know the job requirements and benefits before they hire you, so ask, ask, ask…
Best of luck to the job seekers out there!!!
April 23rd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
I can say Linda O’Donnell e-mailed me about a job and they are expanding to the San Diego area. When you watch the Youtube clip, it sounds like a good opportunity. Especially with so many people out of work and so little jobs out there. Thank you for all the good and bad comments, I knew from the get go I would not call or e-mail her back. Ms. O’Donnell stated
“We are currently expanding into new markets in Southern California, and are looking for individuals like you, who have expressed a desire for a career change by posting your resume online.”
Nowhere, did I ever express a need for a career change, I expressed a NEED FOR A JOB.
Thank you for all the posts.
April 24th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
I got called from a Linda too, but in MN. I understand the Licensing fees, but what is this $312 upfront payment they want for “payroll and office expenses?”
I think they recruit as many people as possible, get the 300 bucks from them all, and then it doesn’t matter how many sales each person makes, because overall the same number of sales will be made, and the people higher up can make more $$.
April 25th, 2009 at 9:07 am
Listen, this is not a scam. You are only scamming yourself because you think it to much of a good opputunity to beileive in. I say this because my family we were on damn welfare, I found this job and now I have a house, a nice car and everything. I went from living on welfare to living a comfortable life not worring about where to get my daughters formula from, bills, and anything and everything else. All you have to do is put your work into it and don’t beileive what some one else says from their own experience. I made my 700$ back with my first paycheck:). We are not that bad of a company you just have to put your mind into it and beilieve you can do it. The office I am at is in Ontario, Canada, and the manager even told me that its all based commission they told me everything upfront.
April 27th, 2009 at 3:46 pm
Well one other question someone can hopefuly answer by tonight. If being hired on AS a manager.. do the same harmful experiences happen?
thanks
April 28th, 2009 at 8:37 am
Roger Smith only has a GED?!! I had no idea. I have a master’s degree and was just let go for not “playing the game”. AIL is a joke and the managers just kiss each other’s asses and expect everyone else to do the same. Sorry, I didn’t go to school all of these years to have to do that. Mr. GED is raking in the dough $ and me with an advanced degree has one big fat goose egg!!
April 28th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
I received a call today from AIL, when she first spoke, I was 100% positive she stated ‘AIG’, thus I continued to listen, ask a few questions (while browsing my email for anything related to the job offer). I asked her (she claimed to be a recruiter) what the job number was, she did not even know this, nor did she have information on the job offer (which was clearly stated in the posting), she did not discuss anything of detail and simply wanted to schedule an interview.
My issue - the claim of how I am a ‘perfect fit’ for the job based on my resume; I’m sorry but where on my resume do I mention sales?? My background as well as my present skills are in IT Management. I have have been a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer since 2005 and I work fully in the tech industry with absolutely no sales interest or experience. Prior to that I did web and graphics design.
So please, someone tell me how that’s a ‘perfect fit’ for a SALES position?
I recall being contacted by AIL previously (about 2 years ago) by a male who also mumbled the company name; once I did research I discovered all the information as well as finding a BBB listing for AIL in Canada who received a bold F, not an A, not a B-, but an F. When I called the number back that he gave me, a female answered, there were other people in the background joking and laughing, and she answered the phone using a completely different company name by accident.
If you have family that relies on you to survive, if you are a single parent trying to raise your children, if there is someone that relies on you to live, then please avoid AIL and find yourself something that will put food on your table.
Sure, there are those that claim to make money at this, but why take the chance and/or pay fees for something that may not be sustainable for you.
Better to be safe than sorry.
April 30th, 2009 at 6:13 am
Thank you, so much for saving me from a new stress.
I am going to cancel my interview.
April 30th, 2009 at 10:19 am
S, nobody is hired on as a manager. Thats a lie the recruiters tell you so they can get their 200 bucks if you get hired. Seriously, lying to people has become rote for all AIL employees, including myself when I was there. If you play the game without a “negative attitude” you are essentially full of it.
April 30th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I got a call from them today. They want me to have an upper managment position. I am still a college student….. Sounded too good to be true. Read this and obviously its a scam. DO NOT GO
May 2nd, 2009 at 5:17 am
I called the BBB and AIL is unacreditted and have a “F” rating, so not such a good place.
May 4th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Well, I am impressed with all the commentss!!! I received a call from a lady in South Florida shw really wanted me to schedule the interview for tommorrow at nine.Very fast!!! I am college student and it sounded great but I am not going to waste my time and money right now..!! I need a job to get experience but according to the comments this is not it. Where can I work and make some money nowadays???!!! AAH by the way!! Iam not going to that scam interview!
May 4th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
ipaid the money passed my exams and amnowworking andthis isthe first i’ve seenof this blog. what am i to expect? … i could have very well have wasted my time.
May 7th, 2009 at 12:51 am
So I went to an interview with them and Im not the brightest or even someone who can BS that I am bright. Its apparent in my eyes and the way I talk. They said they need someone who can drive around for hours and sell insurance to union workers in a radius. So I went home thinking no way am I getting a call, lo and behold the manager that interviewed me said he spoke with another hiring manager and they think that Im qualified for the 2nd interview, after reading this site, Im not going. I just want to know how they want someone who is interesting in the IT field with no experience selling. Additionally he said if I were interested in working in an office or on the sales. I asked about the office job and he immediately pointed back to the sales position.
May 18th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
I got my interview set up for tomorrow. Glad I found this site. Will not be wasting my time tomorrow. I knew it was odd that they kept sending emails and calling about sales. WTF I dont want to sell! I do accounting! But my question is how/why does Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com,etc allow them to access their site for such scams?
Also note that all of the job posting I have seen on Craigslist were scams also.
Thanks for the insight!
May 20th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
I just got a phone call from AIL and I thought I smelled a rat because I have *no* experience (or desire for it) in the insurance sector. Glad I googled the company name - and THANK YOU all for your replies and this blog post!
It is really sad and scary how many scams are connected to monster & career builder. I’ve never received so many scam emails, texts and phone calls like I do now that I’m job hunting.
Two months ago I even got a text from “multnomah county” telling me my bank account had been frozen, and I should call them to get it straightened out. Riiiiiight.
Good luck, all ye fellow job seekers!
March 22nd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
I am scheduled for an interview today but after reasing some of these messages, I’m confused. I don’t like going to poeple’s asking for something nor selling anything. But however, I will honor the invitation to the interview and make my final decision.
But thanks everyone for the input.
March 22nd, 2010 at 7:37 pm
its very stange i got a call from an AIL assoiate that told me they were intrested in me after lookin at my resume that had nothing linking me to a sales man or even a desk job for that matter can i get some advice please
March 22nd, 2010 at 8:18 pm
thank you for the heads up they just called me and i set up an interview with them but i dont think i will go because it sounds like a waste of my time.
March 23rd, 2010 at 8:42 pm
I can comment on the recieving end of this company. I had asked 5 times to be removed from their contact list. On the 6th call I asked for a supervisor name and number. I contacted the supervisor and he said it would be taken care of. Well then that same night at 10 pm after they can legally call I recieved 2 prank phone calls from the same number, hello caller ID. I called the supervisor again. This is outrageous, just because I want to be removed from their call list it set me up for prank calls at all hours of the night. Do not work for this company unless you agree with this type of work ethic.
March 31st, 2010 at 7:49 pm
I went for an interview and they said i can either pay for a temporary license for 150 or a permanent one for 200 i dont think ill go back for the next interview.
April 1st, 2010 at 10:43 pm
I just went through the 3 interviews and was told I would receive a call tomorrow letting me know if I got the job. After reading these posts and having my own reservations I will decline the offer. One thing that really gets me is if this is such a great job and everyone is being hired to be “managers” why aren’t there more offices located throughout the country? It stands to reason that even if only 1 out of 6 people hired stick with it, then surely there should be more offices. That was the pitch they gave me, they were looking to hire people they could groom to become managers and open their own branches. And yet there are only 2 offices within my metropolitan area and 4 hour radius. That doesn’t make any sense to me if everyone is making such big money and the company is expanding and looking to branch out.
April 5th, 2010 at 9:21 pm
Glad I looked into this as well. You put your resume out there trying to find work and have to deal with the crap emails from these kinds of people. Thanks for the heads up everyone.
April 7th, 2010 at 7:28 am
Real simple why would you in the right mind pay to work for anybody lol. That is unheard of. They will hire just about anybody (bodies) because theie reasons are if we hire 100 and 1 works out they did their job, also i ve spent 20 + years in sales and never never never will work for commision only. The job market is picking up slowly good luck in your searches and warn people about this bogus scam !!!
April 13th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
THANK YOU FOR POSTING THESE MESSAGES,I WAS EMAIL & CALL THAT I HAVE INTERVIEW ON THURSDAY MORNING IN IND, I NEVER HEARD OF THIS COMPANY.I LIVE IN CHICAGO (SOUTHSIDE) AND I NOTICES THAT THE AREA CODE WAS VERY DIFFENT IND AREA CODE IS 219 BUT SHE CALL A 630 AREA CODE WHICH IS NORTH OF CHICAGO.YES I AGREE THEY ARE A SCAM COMPANY.
April 13th, 2010 at 8:07 pm
After leaving my previous career of 30 years I put my resume on a couple of job sites. I too got called by a recruiter at AIL within a couple of days. It sounded interesting, went for the interview, got called back for the second interview and was hired. I was pleased when the recruiter mentioned how impressed the managers of the office were with me. I was pleased that is until a few days later when standing outside of her office I heard her tell someone else over the phone the exact same thing. Needless to say bells started going off in my head. Most everything mentioned previously by other posters happened to me also. Memorizing the sales pitch was mind numbingly boring. Looking back on it I’m glad I didn’t pursue this any further than I did. I can say I did walk away with a better understanding of insurance than I had before. I only wish I hadn’t wasted my time and money studying for and getting insurance licenses I’ll never use again. I spent a lot hours without any return.
As someone said, sales jobs aren’t for everyone. This one definitely isn’t. The old adage too good to be true still rings in my head when I have the scripted sales pitch “Has anyone been out to deliver your BENEFITS before?”
April 18th, 2010 at 4:31 am
I know AIL is a scam the moment one of the agent came to my house and did the presentation. Thus, I didn’t purchase the product and knew it was a MLM model from the beginning (like all of you said). I listened to the whole thing just because he was my brother. He felt a little down when he knew I didn’t buy it. But he didn’t give up. He keeps on calling and do his presentations to other clients everyday. Now he is making a lot of money from this company.I think this kind of a job works and fits anyone who is willing to sacrifice. Like everyone said “No pain, no Glory”.
April 19th, 2010 at 12:18 pm
They will hire anyone who will write them a check for the $312. for administrative fees - non refundable and the training for $700 - also non refundable. They churn through thousands. When you train for months with no pay, you leave but they have your money, get it?
April 21st, 2010 at 11:44 am
I work for American Income Life as an agent and in HR. I know from experience that this company is in no way scamming anyone. They are very up front with how we work. There are two types of people calling AIL a scam…those whose laziness has caused them to fail in their minute efforts by not following the proceedures already proven and provided free. For those people the state provides a charity called walfare and foodstamps. Then there are the people who don’t have a clue in reality, they are just repeating that same old lie.
I have worked as an agent for less than a year and in the first eight months I made over $30,000.00 take home pay, and the work isn’t hard. If you follow that proven and provided plan they give to you free, you will make the money they say you will make. AMERICAN INCOME LIFE IS NOT A SCAM!!!
April 23rd, 2010 at 4:00 pm
***UNBIASED, OBJECTIVE PERSPECTIVE VIEW OF AMERICAN INCOME LIFE***
First, let me state that they are not a scam - to either independent insurance agents or their customers.
I was offered a contract and accepted and stayed with the company for 2-3 weeks. I left because I get a better offer from another insurance company, and not to be snobbih - but clients who are more middle-to-high income.
The training I received was thorough as was the dedication of my manager to field train me. AIL serves a niche market - labor union members, credit union members, and the family members/friends they choose to refer.
Their products on the whole life side are pretty good and their term life products are middle road compared to other companies. They do have some products for seniors, especially ones that are sick that you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere
Please note that their typical clients are not well-to-do by any stretch of the imagination. So focusing on having something for their final expenses is prudent and pretty much all that most can afford. That is not the fault of AIL, it’s just what is. I met with folks that could not afford $30 a month, as well as some seniors who glady would pay $70 a month to ensure there funeral expenses could be covered.
The AIL opportunity like all commission positions is not for the faint of heart. The same types of complaints I see here - I saw as a real estate agent and loan officer who was strictly comissioned based. In the world of commission based earnings, you get paid what your worth, unfortunately many people who try it are just not worth that much. It’s different than having a paycheck handed to you for showing up - you got to earn your keep in the commission world. If you can’t accept that, then DON’T get into commission sales.
Lastly, you can make a living there at AIL. I think it’s a good step for someone who has not made a lot of money previously. If you have made six figures or close to it, in my opinion you’ll want to deal with a higher caliber type of client.
That’s my two cents!
Former AIL Agent
Dallas
April 26th, 2010 at 8:28 am
Thank you for the information. I received an email from a an AIL employee that saw my resume on Monster.com. I am currently between jobs. My first reaction was to check this company out on the internet. While it appears there are differences of opinion, I do not want to get into a MLM type job just yet, especially if I have to pay for the training.
April 29th, 2010 at 9:45 am
Fuck these damn niggers. Trying to rip off the poor white man.
April 30th, 2010 at 9:21 am
wow, Thank for the information. I was selected for an interview just the other day. Recently, I just graduated from college and I think that made the selection process easier and more likely for me to accept, which I did. But now I know, and more time will be wasted. Actually, while I in was in this room where a group of us watched a video, a older gentleman kind of got mad half way throw the process, and he got up and left. Again thanks for the information.
April 30th, 2010 at 9:31 am
Yea this is a rip off. I went to an interview and it just did not feel right, and what job wont you to pay before actually working, none, at least not the good ones. For the guy Rob, really is that the angel you taken……….
May 2nd, 2010 at 9:39 pm
great article article…
keep posting
May 3rd, 2010 at 9:42 pm
I don’t know where you clowns are getting this $700 start up fee from. I’ve been with AIL for a little over a month now, and the only money I paid up front was a $104 fee for my state exam and another $45 to the state as a licensing fee. They provided an extensive training program and supplied me with all the tools I needed to succeed. My first day out in the field, I made $900 on just two sales and haven’t looked back since. You people that are crying scam probably breast fed till you were 15 years old. You want everything handed to you without having to work for it. For those of you looking for a career that gives you the freedom to work when you want with an incredible earning potential, AIL can make that a reality. Or you can listen to these ass clowns and go punch a clock everyday for the rest of your life and maybe end up making $15 - $20 an hour by the time your 60 years old. Let me know how that works out.
May 5th, 2010 at 7:50 pm
I just finished reading a ton of gripes about this company on this site and many others. I myself interviewed their and considering a position but currently still un-decided. I have been in sales, the mortgage industry, for over six years so I feel like at at least have a good idea where the people are coming from who are disgruntled.
I can’t help but to think that a large part of the negativity being expressed comes from those who lack a fundamental understanding of most sales job. I came from a 100% commission job where I paid money on a regular basis just to have the job… meaning, I paid out of pocket to pull credit, run underwriting decisions thru the Fanie Mae system, office supplies, gas money.. I paid for my license, my training, my finger prints, etc ,etc… the list goes on. That being said I can also state that I have never made more money in my life then when I was in sales… my best month over $30k.
Yes, sales is a tough job. Yes sales are not for everyone. You must be able to work hard, have self confidence, speak in such a way that your opinions will be respected by your clientele, be well versed in your industry and products available.
I can also say that at least 90% of the people made nothing, gave up and moved on. When you work in sales typically you trade job security for upward potential. Meaning that if you don’t work you get nothing but if you work hard you are apt to make a lot more then a 9-5 job. There’s a rule that 10% of the office staff generate 80% of the income for the office. The trick is you gotta figure out what you’re screwing up, fix the problem.. once you get it right just rubber stamp the system and move forward.
I should have been able to weather the mortgage crash except I was also going thru a transition in my person life. All that being said I’m still undecided about this specific company.
I think for me the deciding factor would be honest statistics of how much money reps made that did nothing but work the job but did not make any money off recruiting. Any idea where I can find that out?
May 7th, 2010 at 10:22 am
I was looking into this company when the word scam kept coming up along with the name which is already not a good sign. I had my license a couple of years ago, and although I did pay about three hundred dollars for training which simply means here are the answers for the test, I was once again told by another friend who is a manager not to work for the company although he make over 100k he said it wasn’t a good comapny to work for when you down and out, cause you not going to make a living because they do not have a good support system for their agents..He has been with the ompany for over 10 years so he paid his dues..Do I wanna wait ten years to finally hit the 100k mark..?
May 8th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
I was looking for information on how to cancel my policy
May 10th, 2010 at 9:51 am
So much of negativity about the company. I was selected in the 1st and 2nd round of interview. Then while going for the third round, I stumbled upon this website. I planning to not so far for interview. I went to the Michigan Office in Flushing, which is on W.Pierson Road.
@ Chris who has an MBA from UCLA with a engineering degree wrote in the thread that this is a Multi-level Markerting Insurance. Like an AMYWAY Insurance. I think I have to agree with him because he is talking some sense. If the firm was illegal, especially in the current economic scenario, then it would have been shut down or bailed out by U.S government.
Nothing as such has happened, so I think it is “LEGAL”. Let’s not go into legality of it. “SEC” — “Securities and Exchange Commission” is there to look into it.
Plus, I do agree after reading both the positive and negative reviews that Sales is not for everyone especially one which is only based on “Commission”. Yes, they did call many people for the interview that day, but who doesn’t. Sales is meant for self-motivated people.
Maybe, you can make the money. But I don’t know how many leads get converted into customers !
May 11th, 2010 at 2:43 pm
Thank God I read these comments. I got a call Friday (they said they got my resume off of hotjobs.com) and they setup an interview for Tuesday, but I forgot and didn’t go. They actually called and reset the interview date for later that week.
I am NOT going, thanks for the heads up. What a waste of time!
May 12th, 2010 at 10:34 am
I got a call today for an interview. I am somewhat skeptical because I am a Registered Nurse and don’t know how they got my resume. I do sell Pre paid legal and Identity Theft Ins though and have to wonder if that is how they got my name and number. I had a feeling that this was commissioned based….however…so is PrePaid Legal and I am making great money with them. It does take a lot of self-motivation though. Actually…I am making enough with PrePaid Legal that I turned in my resignation as Director of Nursing at a Rehab and Nursing facility here in Louisiana. I do not know if I should go to this interview or not ?????
May 12th, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Just received a call this morning (#630-910-8800) from a woman named Marisol who mumbled and spoke with a nearly unintelligible accent, saying AI got my resume off of CareerBuilder; after reading your numerous replies, needless to say I WON’T be calling these con artists back!
And to the (clearly paid) charlatans insulting people (Eric, I’m looking at you)…do you honestly think insulting people in lieu of actually addressing their complaints endears the company in any way to prospective employees? Combine that with your poor grammar and bogus claims that “hard work” is the only thing separating people from hundreds of thousands of dollars, and you’ve got a bona fide pyramid scheme.
May 12th, 2010 at 2:19 pm
One more thing; like some of the earlier posters, I received an email from AI (Bob Mason) that, thanks to Gmail, went directly into my spam folder; that alone speaks volumes about the nature of this company. Here’s the full text of the email I received:
Hi, my name is BOB OLSON and I am a State Director for American Income. I saw your resume on the internet and felt that I should contact you immediately. Our company currently has openings for several outstanding individuals like you.
If you are an individual seeking a financially rewarding position with a company that is part of the Torchmark Corporation (TMK), a company that truly believes in honesty, integrity and trust, then I would like to speak with you.
Please call my office at 630-910-8800 so we can schedule an interview.
Best regards,
BOB OLSON
American Income
(note: The email text supposedly provides an “opt out” link to prevent future updates, but unsurprisingly, the link doesn’t work)
May 12th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
I have a friend who owns his own insurance company and said that anyone silly enough to fall for AIL’s balogna deserves what he/she gets. I also work for a lawfirm that deals with “white collar” criminals and I cannot tell you how familiar this is to the 65% of the cases we deal with. Most of the time, blogs like these would start about our client’s bogus companies and then they’re friends would get on and pretend to be employees, people who just interviewed or family of long-term employees claiming that everyone is being a real jerk for ruining the company’s name. Scam scam scam. This company is also not BBB acredited. Check for yourself it easily accessible and doesn’t require you to sign up for anything. If every single person you interview with is hired every single time, I’d say something is up. Anywho, to all of you AIL employees that have been posting on here, I look forward to seeing you in our office when you finally get caught for this and you will get caught. I know where a couple of your offices are in my town because I was called for an interview for an old resume I had online from like a year ago. Oh and, since I work in the legal field, I know exactly whom to contact to have AIL investigated. I don’t know if you have jumped through some sort of legal loopholes but no one likes to be investigated so I hope you have nothing to hide.
Love,
AnnaJ
May 12th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
WOW! Why aren’t they just upfront about everything? Why not just say that you will have to train for long hours with no pay??? Why not just say that you will have to pay to get a license? Most people looking for jobs, need a JOB! They need money now. I already owe $30,000 for a college degree that I need to pay back NOW. I don’t have time, gas, or money to waste spending more money. I have a degree and management experience. That is what I’m applying for, that is what I want to do. Straight forward. I want to manage a group of people at an honost straight forward establishment that I can feel good about. A place that I’m proud to work for. For thos of you Moby, that are happy using trickery to make cash for yourself, I suppose this is perfect. But, how dare you call yourself elite, or the rest of us regular ol’ Joes. I know plenty of people who make over $100 THOU working for noble respectable, HONOST, and STRAIGHT FORWARD companies. If I apply for a job as a Sprint sales agent, I know what I’m getting into. They tell me straight up, if you don’t like sales, this aint for you. I can respect that. I don’t respect Bullshit artists. I do not need to be suckered in, or tricked into doing something that someone feels is a favor to the average Joe, Moby. You can call it elite, smart, and energetic. I call it BS.
The girl that called me said that I was perfect for the MANAGEMENT position opening up in their NEW office. My resume was online for management. She said, “You will be managing a small group in the new office and calling existing customers to verify information and make updates in our database”. Then I got another email telling me how great of an opportunity this was, and then another phone call to verify that I would be at the interview. By now I was thinking, why are these people so desperate if they’re so successful. This time I asked, “Is this for a management or sales position?” Her answer, “ugh…aaah…uh…both?…management and sales.” Was she asking me? This may be for some, but not for me. I have to respect the company I’m working for, and if you can’t be straight with me from the start, then I just lost respect. My time is valuable….go finagle and beat around the bush with those “smart & elite” assholes.
May 15th, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Mr. Yuk, you are SO RIGHT!
wow.
This place (Altig / AIL - don’t get them confused… or whatever…) is ridiculous.
Altig (not AIL) is MLM-based, because pay for the up-line management is based SOLELY on commissions from down-line “independent contract employees”. No base pay for “management”. Unheard of in sales/general management positions.
They lied to my face with a smile on theirs… and she was smokin’ hot.
Her name is Chanda Fillmore-Thalman. She said she was divorced, but her ex-husband works at Altig / AIL in the same Provo office as her….???
I was being hired for a Manager / Mentor position to run their Provo Office. She was good. She made me think I was the perfect fit… and she made me think she was single and she was smokin’ hot…. (did I mention that?)
She even said, “don’t worry about the parts regarding the personal producers, pay attention to the management parts.”
Their core values: Honesty, Integrity, Flexibility, Adaptability, Trainability, and a host of others… (I wonder how flexible she is? she is single and smokin’ hot… did I mention that????
I was lied to. I was expected to be a “personal producer” not a manager.
How is that Honest? That’s the first sign of any email or phishing scam, “I am looking for a good, honest, (fill-in the religion) person to help me….”
Nicholas Lawrence (SGA? or some lame title at only 2yrs into the business and maybe 30? yrs old and Head office honcho in Provo UT) said, “I will not hire everyone in here.” This was during our “2nd interview.. informational meeting thing…”
Bull crap. They were all hired. Why lie about it?
This is part of the AIL / Altig agenda, not based on State General Manager’s discretion (like some Altig / AIL drone posted a year or two ago). They use an AIL / Altig supplied video for the informational meeting.
Why not be straight up and say, “This job is a lot of hours, a lot of time, a lot of headache. It is hard core sales. Not all of you will succeed because you are not the right fit for this work. We will hire any of you that are interested because our turnover rate is so high. Those of you that are a fit for this might succeed and be very wealthy.”
ALSO, be straight up about their political agenda.
“‘Workers of the World Unite’ is not just a slogan anymore, it’s the way we need to do business.” (Andy Stern, Member of AIL’s Labor Board, President of SEIU - Service Employees’ International Union, Close personal friend & confidant of Obama, Most registered visitor to the White House since Jan 21, 2009)
I can’t work for a Socialist-Marxist-Leninist Agenda-focused company. Unions are not there to promote the well-being of the masses, they are there to make money for the Union Elites and to bring down the “capitalist pigs” that own the companies. Hello Detroit, Cleveland and a score of other Union-Destroyed Cities.
Thank you for starting this comment thread!!!!!!!
May 18th, 2010 at 11:57 am
Do not trust AIL. If you are not interested in insurance sales then just skip out on this opportunity. It is absolutely ridiculous. The agents hired on remain unpaid for months of training and the interviews are conducted in large groups. They are highly unprofessionional and discriminatory as well. I went to an interview at the oak forest agency and was turned away because i chose to take public transportation. Also they dont tell you that you have to pay for all these classes plus license fees
May 18th, 2010 at 7:22 pm
well ill go and check it out and see how it all works, just got put down about all this thought it was a legit job well thanks to all of you for the information
May 20th, 2010 at 12:07 am
Wow, I just got an e-mail from them saying they found my resume on Monster.com and thought I was the perfect candidate for a job opening that they have. I was so excited, and being how late it is, I couldn’t call them, and decided to check out their website or things about them. I’m glad I found this to hear from SO many people about the scam they have going. I’m really disappointed too. But, i guess I’d rather be disappointed finding it out on this site than to have gone to an interview and be tricked! Thanks to everyone!
May 20th, 2010 at 9:37 am
I went into a interview on may 7th thinking that this was something real and good. I was there at 10:30am my interview was at 10:45am i drove about 40 mins to get there and i got there and the person i was supposed to interview with they said she was out sick for the day so i interviewed with someone else. It was about a 3 min interview then they asked me to stay for a group interview so i did and that was about 1 hour long all you did was watch a dumb video. After the video you go into another personal interview and that was about 2 mins alon again and all they asked was what do you think about the company. then they so ok we will give you a call by the end of next week to come in for another interview. By the time i left it was about 3pm On may 12th i tried to call there and they have no phone number only fax numbers so i called the lady who called me and it was her cell phone she called off of. I think this is a scam because i left her messeges and everything and she never called me back its now may 20th and i have call about 5x the cell number and left messeges and she never has returned my calls. SCAM all the way.
May 21st, 2010 at 1:06 pm
I just received a phone call from this company as well. I had sent them my resume via a career website. The woman called and told me all about the company and how it had been in business since 1924 and that they were doing so much volume they ‘recently’ opened a branch here in Indianapolis. She told me that I was being interviewed for a management/supervisor position, then asked me a few questions about my background. I set up an interview appointment time with her and she gave me the company website (www.ailife.com) at the end of the phone call I asked her more about the position and she couldn’t give me a direct answer. She them went on to say that it MAY BE for management or sales, whatever the interviewer felt I was a better fit for - which was not what she told me at the beginning of the conversation. After I got off the phone with her I went to the website and there is a link for careers. Just the website alone made me suspicious, I mean who has testimonials for employees? The whole thing was very vague and being as I almost went on a scam interview last week as well I decided to google them and found this web site. I’m so glad I did. I cannot afford to shell out any money for licensing (warranted or not) nor can I take the chance to work a 100% commission job. I’m going to save myself the gas, time and headache of interviewing and cancel my appointment.
I’m sure there are SOME people that may work for this company and do well, but I don’t trust it and it just doesn’t sound like it’s for me.
So thanks posters!
May 22nd, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Simple facts. 1) AIL is currently ranked at position #41 on yahoo! hotjobs top 100 companies in the US to work for. Those educated in business will understand what it takes to be recognized at that position. There is not another insurance company ranked anywhere close to that position. 2) They are not only rated A+ by AM BEST, but also by the Better Business Bureau. Surely those that are educated will seek information from an educated source. 3) Their parent company is Torchmark corp.(TMK is their stock symbol), which is outperforming just about every financial industry company on the stock market. Compare it to industry competitors METLIFE (MET) and AFLAC (AFL) just to get the bigger picture. I do commend you for doing “some type” of research on a company before interviewing or taking a position with them, but why not perform educated research and make an educated decision based on “that” research.
May 23rd, 2010 at 3:15 pm
I took the job at AIL, study and passed my exam and got my License. Started the job after quitting my part-time job. Was promised all sorts of beenies during the interview because I deliberate asked the right questions. THey said they pay for our gas when we hand in receits, paid for the two weeks of training, paid for our cell phone. Well, guess what they LIED and I am out of hundreds of dollars. Wish I had found this site. I did Learned a great lesson though!!Stay away farom this company.
May 24th, 2010 at 10:26 am
If it looks too good to be true it will be! My son received a call from AIL this morning and was excited about the prospect. He has had a bad experience with other jobs similar to this. When I was an agent for Prudential I did not pay for my training or my state examinations. This is part of what a professional organization does because it is an investment in the companies further as well as the individuals. He has decided to skip his interview. Thanks for the info.
May 24th, 2010 at 11:46 am
I just got a call from them. Any time I get a call about a job I don’t remember applying for I’m VERY sceptical. while on the phone with the person I asked a few questions (name of caller, company name, etc) while i googled it. Sure enough…
May 24th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
To MGA in Lubbock:
First off, who cares if AIL is ranked “#41 at Yahoo jobs.” You do realize that ranking system only applies to the number of job postings per employer. The more postings, the higher the number. And the “Better Business Bureau?” Really? You mean the organization that you have to pay to be a part of? As an “educated” person I thought you would understand the difference. And Torchmark is far from out performing the finacial industry. Regardless, what does that have to do with wether or not someone should work for AIL? Perhaps you should do some “educated” research before you come on here and make an ass of yourself. Oh, Torchmark isn’t and never has been a Fortune 500 company.
May 25th, 2010 at 3:06 pm
so i just got back from my first interview and it took like 3 and a half hours. the “RGA” just kept talking about how much money you can make and bullshit, like other people have said the “RGA” was this smoking hott blonde chick with a very thick accent, this was in diamond bar, ca. they told us its $330 for the licensing ect. probably because they cant get $700 a person anymore. the whole time she was explaining everything i kept thinking mlm but now i know for sure. anyway i was waiting to hear back from them to see if i was chosen for another interview, so not after reading this and confirming what i was suspecting ill probably just tell them off when they call.
May 29th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
This company does not stand behind their word they are crooks and liars and should be dealt with accordingly. They owe me in upwards of a grand (they haven’t even payed me back for business expenses.) and won’t return any of my calls or emails. It’s a shame that a company of this size can get away with this, it makes me sad. If you have any questions about this company and would like to know specific names and numbers please email me at [email protected] and I will help you out in any way I can. Don’t trust these people whether you are working for them or purchasing a policy from them.
May 31st, 2010 at 12:59 pm
I just got a call from these people.
The girl said my resume had been passed on to her by some guy whose name I didn’t recognize. She asked if I was still looking for employment (which I’m not) and asked where they saw my resume. She said “sir, this was passed on to me, are you still looking for employment?” To which I said no, and she ended the call by saying “well, there’s not much we can do for you then, goodbye”.
Needless to say, her call left me wondering who this “American Income” company was, and I’m glad I found this blog post!
June 2nd, 2010 at 6:39 am
HEY
I HAVE WORKED FOR AIL IN RHODE ISLAND FOR OVER NINETY DAYS, FOUND IT TO BE A GREAT PLACE TO WORK AND HAVE MADE INCOME EVERY WEEK. DO I WORK MY BUTT OFF YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT,
YOU GET WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT
June 3rd, 2010 at 11:01 am
My husband started as an agent with AIL 5 years ago and has moved up quickly within the company. AIL is not a scam, it seems as though those who complain about this company are those who are not good at sales and quite frankly are just not good at this type of work. You have to work hard in any sales/commission based line of work, my thought it that most people do not have the drive to keep on working a job that does not make them clock in and clock out every day with someone breathing down their backs. AIL has allowed my family financial freedom with the commissions earned as well as the residual income that is paid for the policies that has been written over the years. My husband earns thousands each month without even having to go to work! This company and it’s agent do care about their policy holders and their agents and office staff. Whatever you put into this company, you will receive back! Commission is only scary to those who do not strive to be their best, there is no cap on your earning potential with this company…go in for an interview and see for yourself, making unfair judgments does not do any body any good.
June 5th, 2010 at 4:26 am
awe shit i already set up an interview, i aint goin now, glad i did research on the job before accepting it, and why would a job make you pay to work for them?
June 7th, 2010 at 9:31 am
AIL is a legitimate company with legitimate paying jobs, sales or non-sales. The problem that the majority of the people commenting here have is the misrepresentation of the positon for which AIL is requesting interviews. If the position is a sales position, they should present it as such, instead of vaguely describing it a position “handling benefits” as they did in my case. It only leads to a bad reputation of the company (i.e. the word “scam” follows “American Income Life” when Googling).
I cancelled my “interview” after researching AIL and reading these blogs because I am not interested, qualified, or talented for a sales role.
June 7th, 2010 at 12:14 pm
I have been work on getting my Insurance license for the past week. But as far as AIL is concerned I think I am going to give them a try. I have read some of these post and between the spelling mistakes and the imporper grammer from those of you that are bad mouthing the company, I too think that you just want things handed to you. In todays socity you find that there is no work ethic. I am 38 and was raised that if you don’t put forth the effort then you will not be much in life. I was never handed anything in life and therefore believe that this company is worth working for. They make you put that effort into the money you earn.
June 8th, 2010 at 1:49 am
Wow. this is crazy. I have a interview in literally 7 hours but Im glad I decided to lok up the company. I went through something similiar to this with the Kirby company. Yeah so… guess Im sleeping in tomorrow. Thank you
June 8th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
I agree. AIL will give just about anyone an opportunity to work. Obviously, this has backfired on them. All you have to do is read these posts and you will realize that the #1 complain is Money. Well guess what, to all of those that are good with sales, great communication skills, devoted and leaders..this is a Great opportunity, and most of you passed it by. Which might be a good thing, leaders do not follow the crowd….they make educated and well thought out decisions which most of you did not do. AIL is a great company, great products but if failed in hiring just about anyone which gave it a bite in the behind. That will change very soon. By the way, if you had to pay, its for the cost of the license and other State requirements, but then again, I don’t expect you 21st century labor force to know this. Get your head out of the nonsense media and educate yourself. Word of advice, Dont belive everything you see or hear, not even this post & if you do not like something Change it! Make calls, research, call the Regulators and confirm..thats if you arent too lazy. Good luck to you all that passed up this AIL opportunity.
June 9th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
ok! ive read bout as much winening as i can stand!insurance companies r not scams! u sell..u get paid.if u dnt wont 2 start ur own business thn keep punchin that time clock.thier tryn 2 push u 2 recruit so they will make more money & grow.n return,u make more money.no success comes w/o sacraficing sumthn.so u pay $700 4 a chance 2 make …more than wat u make now im sure,which is prolly under a $100k.keep sweatin were ur @ 2 end up nowere cause thats were u will b!im tired of makin excuses 4 my self! tired of heari ng them from negative unsuccessful people!successful people will tell u u can do it..while the others..its a scam its a scam!please spare me & check back w me whn i make it 2 t top!HOLLA!
June 10th, 2010 at 11:04 am
First of all Marky Mark is an idiot. I am an agent for New York Life and I have been for some time now. When I was hired on, they not only GAVE ME compensation to train but also paid for my license. They are also offering to pay for all of my series licenses as well as a Master Degree. They are the number one life insurance company in the world!
You do not have to work for New York Life to have this type of experience, all of the reputable insurance companies are looking for agents right now (Northwestern, TIAA Creff, Mass Mutual, State Farm) and they will not make you pay to train! That is crazy that they would make you do that. Do not expect to get the job though as the screening process is very rigorous, but if you do make it through you know that you do have the necessary qualities for the job (although you may not use them).
If you do become an agent, set two appointments a day and you will be succesful!
June 10th, 2010 at 11:06 am
BTW …The best financial strength rating is A++…if they are only A+…you can do better as a consumer
June 14th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
thanks for the info. i got an email from them even though the resume i sumited to monster.com was for landscaping so i thought i should check to see what this company was.
June 16th, 2010 at 10:27 am
there is some pretty hateful people in here
June 17th, 2010 at 8:58 am
Thank you to everyone who replied to this! It has really helped me alot! I attended to interview and got invited back to a second interview. I was wondering in the back of my mind if this was a scam. I really still don’t believe it is. But I just don’t have the money to pay for the insurance license right now. And I really thank everyone for the heads up.
June 17th, 2010 at 4:49 pm
I once worked for american income. I was not an agent, but rather a telephone recruiter. It was my job to call people, hype them up into thinking we’re interested in them, then schedule them in for a job interview. I will tell you right now, they have NEVER even looked at your resume. I didn’t even see them either. I would get a list of names and phone numbers to call everyday. The office I had been working at has been hiring recruiters for about a year now. So they have been hiring and losing people for a year! I will tell you now, they are real fishy in their way of business. I was fired through a text message at 9pm the night before I was to come back into work. No reason. Just don’t come in. I will tell you now, they gave us a script to follow, a small amount of info to answer your questions, told to avoid the subject of salary, and they have never looked at your resume so even if they say they are interested in you…its untrue…they’ve never even heard of you. Beware.
June 19th, 2010 at 3:56 am
i will soon start working with this company…my background is insurance and i already have a license so i dont have to pay the “700″ people are talkin about…
after being laid off twice in 1 year, i decided to give sales a try since i already tried the career route of attempting to work my way up from the bottom only to be given pitiful severence packages and a good luck wish as they showed me the door.
yes ail will give jus about anyone a chance to work…thats all i ask for…if i make it, great…if i dont, then back to the usual grind…
June 21st, 2010 at 3:21 pm
Thank God, I do, for this web site! Something told me to look up some info on this company as they wanted me to contact them for an interview. Wow was I suprised to read the comments of everyone. I can’t waste anymore time on finding employment so, thanks everybody, your comments left here are surely truthful, to bad employers can’t be. Back at it, NadoWasi.
June 23rd, 2010 at 7:48 am
I was getting a outfit to come to my interview today and someone else had told me they same thing that i am reading I didnt even know this girl. i have an interview today i really dont want to waste my time…the lady that called me didnt say anything about driving all around the freaking place or haveing to pay dammm I have to pay ….they called me and made the job look so good…i knew it was to good to be true so what should i do because i am not paying no fucking 700.00 go go to work and then to be making 50 dollars a week and work 100 hours I go to school and will not be working no fucking 100 hours with on money to show for it.
June 23rd, 2010 at 3:51 pm
READ THIS!!!
It’s funny how when there is gossip or something negative to talk about people are all on board. Why would you take a complete strangers advice on something and never find out on your own. If someone told you the “promise land” was down the street and then someone headed from that direction said, “don’t waste your time!” would you take their word for it, or check it out?? When you listen to broke people, you will probably end up broke.
I have a go getter mentality. In the past I have worked from waiting tables to owning my own business. I found American Income and have been here since 08. In my opinion there is no other opportunity like it, and it is truely unlimited, with the perks of residual income and early retirement.
If you are the type of person that feels like you should be paid for your performance and don’t like limitations, this is definately the career for you! My first year I made over 100K. Yes I had to pay for my insurance license and finger prints, which is for the state. Yes I had to work hard and sometimes longer than most people. But winners do what losers aren’t willing to do.
On the other side, if you are someone who is what I call a Comfortable Office Worker, this is definately not for you. This business takes a certain mentality and is not meant to be a 9-5. The rewards are AMAZING for those who dedicate their time and energy. Not only that, but the feeling of satisfaction, knowing at the end of the day you have been able to help many families and save them financial devistation when a loved one dies.
The perks of American Income: obviously the pay and benefits, you are provided leads, training at no cost and a set system that is proven successful. The only thing that fails with this opportunity are the people that are not WILLING to do what it takes and have the self discipline. Not everyone is meant to be successful and that is ok. But bad mouthing a company or an opportunity is immature and ignorant. If you don’t like it or it’s not for you, no one is making you stay.
Next time look at the FACTS! We are a Forbes 400 company, rated A+ superior by AM Best, have the financial backing of Torchmark Corporation (owned by Warren Buffet), have over 28 billion dollars of insurance in effect, and the list goes on.
I want to personally thank American Income for providing me with the lifestyle I love and a future that is very bright. Being that I will be able to retire when I am 36 and still receive a check every month is allowing me to have a tool live out other dreams that I have for myself and personal passions. Again, thank you!
June 28th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Ha I got the call this morning and I am a Sterilization technician and french teacher part time with a local school district… I have no sales background AT ALL… lol
I find it so ridiculous that they would try to scam people to think they can make big money in this, insurance make their money by SELLING their policy hoping you never get in an accident or die too early,,, not by promising you big payouts to their minions of little sales rep. I will never bother people at 8 pm on a saturday to sell them anything even if I have to sleep in a cardboard box ANY day of my life, it’s just not CIVIL period.
Glad I made some research on them thanks to all who were honest… oh and all those positive comments must be made from some little people hired to post that on here. No one in their right mind would ever sign up for unpaid training.
June 29th, 2010 at 2:02 am
Mobey this message is for you.. As of right now you are #14 on the comments list. I was a very successfull manager with AIL and for you to get on here and lie blaitenly is absolutley a showing of how low you really are. Your right mobey the company makes no money off of new hires.. Oh thats right except the 400 dollars you get after your 3rd hire for the month.. Thats right if you hire 10 people in a month thats 3400 dollars.. Just for hiring people. So whats the motivation here.. Work for a boss thats motivated by how much money you make him.. Hmm yea that creates a bit of a conflict in interest. Dont get me wrong there are great managers out there but they are few and far between and have there own success and agendas in mind.. MY ADVICE TO ALL OF YOU IS THAT THIS IS PROBABLY NOT THE OPPURTUNITY YOU ARE LOOKING FOR. I EXPERIANCED IT PERSONALLY ITS A SAD AND DIRTY BUSINESS AND NOT TO MENTION HOW THEY MANIPULATE THE POOR UNION MEMBERS JUST TO GET IN THERE HOME AND MAKE YOU MEMORIZE A SCRIPT TO SELL THEM. I DID IT I WAS GOOD AT IT THATS WHY I HAD TO LEAVE. STAY AWAY FROM AIL!!!!!!!
June 29th, 2010 at 10:43 am
Wow! I am supposed to have an interview with these folks in one of their CA offices in an hour or so. I think I’ll skip it. I thought it was all good with the HR person emailed me in regards to my resume. I let a few days pass without a response since I wanted to think about it. But then I got an email from the CEO letting me know he reviewed my resume and wanted me to set up an interview! CEO’s don’t do that. I called the number, left a message and was called back within an hour by a girl who told me about this “Management Sales” job. Then she mentioned I needed to dress “professionally”. Uh, duh! I think any company that has to tell you that is inviting ANYONE to interview. I imagine this is a “cattle call” type interview, for which I have been to one of those before and told my interviewer I was far too qualified for his shady position. And wouldn’t you know, the guy AGREED with me!
My mother had an AIL policy during her life for which I had to cancel. They didn’t make it easy, which is a sure sign of desperation.
Thanks for those of you who posted honest comments on your experience. I had doubts and was willing to give it a go for the interview, but after reading over 2 years of comments that are roughly the same I know driving 30 miles to an office out of my area is not a smart thing to do.
June 30th, 2010 at 9:55 am
Just got back from my interview….I was told multiple times over the phone that this position was a management position and strictly salary. WRONG. No management positions are available, only sales with 100% commission. Why lie to me when I ask a question straight up twice!!!! Not cool!
June 30th, 2010 at 7:17 pm
I received a call from an American Income representative this evening requesting I come for an interview. I questioned her heavily and was assured this was a guaranteed income of $60-80,000 per year depending on my experience. I was assured this was a GUARANTEED INCOME, even after I asked her several times and explained I had many calls from my resume offering commission only. I made an appointment for an interview and began researching. I just cancelled that interview because I really believe I was lied to just as the people on this site.
July 1st, 2010 at 1:09 pm
I don’t know what MLM means, but if it’s the part of the business model that has people hired for sales commission alone then that makes it a scam! The problem with scams is not that they are illegal, it’s that they are dysfunctional and that they make money by ruining lives. We’ve all come to learn of that special and quite legal phrase “pre-existing condition” right? A scam is a scam whether it’s legal or not and any business model that so much as thinks that people should put their own money on the table for a job that they need to make money is a scam in the purest sense of the word today.
July 2nd, 2010 at 4:31 pm
I normally do my due diligence when looking at a company. Most of the BS from responders is not helpful.
Let’s take one issue, testing and licensing. I looked a two separate companies because I was interested in insurance. BOTH companies require you to pay for the training and licensing, coming to about $700. It may be that some companies pay for the training but many do not.
On this site, there were many bozo’s who called this MLM, scamming, buying in, etc. It is all crap and ignorance.
My baloney detector went wild with most of these “negative” comments on this site. Many respondents answered the criticisms handily. I’m with them.
for those dumb enough to listen to the negatives, you deserve your next career choice!
My advice, take the interview, talk to several local “veteran” employees, ask lots of questions then decide for yourself. At least you will be “informed” then. This is true of ANY job.
July 7th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Wow, I was reading through all of this today, I just got a called from an Agent at AIL in Plantation, FL who offered me an exiting career, now why would a computer technician who applied for an IT position be called by AIL to do be a Sales agent or and entry level manager for an insurance firm, uhmmm fishy, that’s not what I applied for in carrier builder or have my resume posted under. She went telling me that she received my information from her manager that took it from career builder and that I position available are entry level management, training manager, and sales. I will diffidently not go to that interview. Besides I am doing sales now and I get weekly salary, plus weekly commission on all my sales.
July 8th, 2010 at 2:06 am
I never worked for AIL, but did work for the sister company Liberty National (also part of Torchmark). The name of their games is the same: “cattle calling.” What does that mean? Well, first understand that insurance companies need people to sell their policies. Unfortunately, for these 2 companies, their products are not at all competitively priced, so they have to find people that know nothing about insurance to sell them. A “cattle call” is a mass interview to get as many people to work for them as possible. They use all sorts of crazy tactics (already thoroughly outlined above) like telling you they are only offering the job to a few of them. (In sales, making something sound special goes along way) If you actually do drink the “kool aid,” (accept the job) you will work long hours until you run out of money and quit. At that point, you have populated the office (to get that “misery loves company” effect, and all of what you wrote is now there policies.
The huge problem (and unfortunately non-regulated portion) is that this type of business puts a bad name on real insurance companies. Not everyone has a background cut out for this business. Virtually every comment above from an ex-employee includes massive spelling errors, poor sentence structure, and certainly wreaks of inexperience. Newsflash: Insurance is actually an important legal contract….not to mention it is a fiduciary one. I was thoroughly schooled in all aspects fiduciary law, (as well as many other similar subjects) and can tell you not everyone can explain legal writings or basics of the estate process. (and a lot think they do. A popular tv correspondent referred to the term “death tax” as the new Republican brandishing strategy, lol!) Anyways, most of the people they hire no nothing of life insurance policies, so the insured comes away knowing even less.
A Quick Facts all new insurance agents should know.
1. These companies are structured so the agents cannot actually follow their policy once it is sent to the company. (Almost no companies are ever run that way. Even if the client belongs to the company, you should always be able to follow your policy through underwriting. This has a huge chance for fraud….this is why people on other reviews say they receive bills from these companies after they leave. You really don’t know if the person really canceled the policy, or if the company is making a quick buck) So always write down the phone number of your clients. If they send you a bill after you leave because someone canceled, you can call to verify.
July 8th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
I have been with this company for almost six years and it has changed my life for the best. No where else could I write my own paycheck and make the kind of money I have made. My up front investment was for my insurance license which If I worked in the field anywhere else I’d have to pay for anyway. You do not need to be an manager to make money agents make money too. People who complain and talk bad about the company don’t succeed because they don’t try and work hard. You have to be motivated and work hard in life to successful. Too many people spend too much time whining about how hard things are and don’t apply themselves to make it happen. THose are the loosers who don’t make it anywhere in life. Easier to discredit a great company and find blame in others than to take a look in the mirrow and get the job done. If you get a call from this company, take the interview and pray they hire you and work your butt off and make a ton of money and reitre young and happy with a great income for the rest of your life. Learn from the great leaders in the company and appreciate them as they appreciate you. They haven’t been around for over 50 years with an A+ Supperior rating for nothing.
July 11th, 2010 at 5:30 pm
During the hiring phase, they are honest that you will be required to foot the bill for your licensing, the training is unpaid and that you are full commission.
When you are training, you learn that you must lie to the “Union” members, although most of your calls turn out to not be Union at all. Leads are cards people have sent in for their free benefits, and from the general public for the “Child Safe Kits”. You lie to get through the door-I am here to deliver your useless free benefits. You lie, denying that you are on commission-I don’t care if you buy or not, I’m still getting paid. You pressure for referrals of their family and friends, as referrals are your life. In one sentence, you are trashing term insurance to sell the “whole life portion,” then you are turning around to sell them “income protection,” which comes directly from the term insurance you also want to sell.
You also soon learn that most of your leads are not exactly in good areas. Nothing like walking up to a house that is literally falling down, to be greeted by a disgusting shirtless man, cigarrette falling from his mouth with the oxygen tank nearby. It is not uncommon for agents lives to be threatened. Who can blame the people who have been lied to in the effort to sell insurance when all they wanted was the bogus free stuff?
Do you really want to work for any company who’s business model is lie, lie and lie some more? Their product does seem legit enough, but their sales and employment tactics are not.
July 12th, 2010 at 9:11 am
I currently work with American Income Life and that information is not true. Where Iam confused is how do you work at a location and not know what you are doing or how you will get paid until after you have been with the company 30 days that is unbelievable. 2nd, you do not have to wait to get paid until you have someone on your team. To be honest if you ask any of the agents they will tell you that they like the money before they were to receive an agent under them.
The frustration comes when a person is full of negativity and feels that this is not for them. So how can this business be a SCAM when we have managers that have been working with the company from 1 to 20 something years and are successful at it. If you are not a people person then you should never try to be a sales agent! EVER!!!!!
July 12th, 2010 at 3:51 pm
I had my ins. license and had sold ins. for decades when I was contacted by the Lee Summit, MO AIL office via a resume site. So I understood the commissioned sales position being offered, the training was expected, even learning “Their” sales script only(compliance). After 12 weeks of writing 2-4K AV per week I still hand not received an as earned commission check. I was paid weekly bonuses, promoted to a supervisor, earned agent of the week trophies and given one reason after anther for NOT being paid a commission check. The 13th week I was informed appointments would not be set for me anymore, which in the AIL system, without appointments being set, your unemployed. I terminated my contract as a result. I have yet been paid over $7,000 in earned commissions and have been informed by AIL I would not be paid any. This must be what they mean “you can live off renewals”. This put a hole new spin on the phrase, “Live by leads, die by leads”. Don’t let yourself become part of AIL’s “up line’s” renewal plan. And, yes AIL clients get what they pay for (not much).
July 15th, 2010 at 9:47 am
i start today!!!
July 16th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
I was debating whether I should have gone to the interview myself after I was called for an interview, because I don’t want to work at an unreputable company and I don’t really know a whole lot about it, but I do know there are alot of scams out there. That’s when I came across this site, trying to research it all out.
July 18th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
I am a professional who has completed an MBA living in another country and they have called telling me they have an excellent opportunity for me in Plantaion Florida WTF!
No way lady
July 19th, 2010 at 9:54 am
I was just hired on to this company and all of this stuff that you guys are are saying they told me straight up and they were completely honest with me. Either you sell and make money or you dont’t sell and make nothing. They said if you want to make money than you will work more. They have not told me anything that is to good to be true. I have not beed asked to pay anything that was to expensive. Just for my class to get my license, my exam, and background check/ fingerprinting. What is so crazy about that.
July 21st, 2010 at 1:47 am
I just got a call a couple of days ago for an interview. After talking to some recruiter, I went online and saw that the company emailed too. I thought that was kind of pushing. After reading the site, I’m a little torn of what the company is all about. Thanks for all the info on here, and for helping me make a good decision for not going to the interview. Everybody who says great stuff about the company, I think you are brainwashed, for that I am sorry.
July 21st, 2010 at 4:53 pm
I was called today and set for an interview tomorrow. I am so not going! Not after all of this. Even with the “Good” comments. I’m glad I found THIS site; even though the company is real they don’t seem legitimate.
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:51 pm
@ happy with my job:ignorance is bliss… You speak of A rating, and how they don’t have that for nothing , it’s because of the share holders of tmk. What about the c- rating with the bbb. This company is a joke and only rejects like you work there not because you love it, but because you have no other choice you ignorant “looser” btw learn how to spell loser!
July 25th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
An important issue to consider particularly in these difficult economic times is homeowners insurance and to beware of scams especially when people are affected by severe weather conditions that threaten their lives and health.
Royal Palm Insurance , Gainseville , FL , Tower Hill Insurance Company , Gainseville , FL, and Newman Insurance Agency , Inc., Hollywood , FL and were involved with arranging and providing homeowners insurance and shortly after being paid for the insurance they would inform the customer the home is at risk cancel the policy. Then they offer the customer another policy with another of their companies and charge a significant additional amount.
During hurricane season, they cancel again informing the customer again the home is at risk.
It is possible this may involve discrimination.
July 26th, 2010 at 3:34 pm
I wanted to learn more about the company since I too was contacted to be a manager and my degree and work experience are office administration.
July 27th, 2010 at 11:20 am
I used to work for AIL. It was a horrible experience. The company is completely unprofessional. Employees there seem to get positions where they have no experience in just because they date the right people.
They will call you and say its not sales. Its ALL sales! Its ALL commission, nothing more. You will make money, with time and effort, you will make lots. But if you dont like sales, your wasting your time and everybody will lie and say there are other positions. There never is!
AIL is a recruiting company that happens to sell insurance. Their main focus is getting more people in for sales. The more people in the less work the managers have to do. With the people in they use them as puppets to do all the dirty work and they get a cut from the work.
July 28th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion about AIL. I have been working with American Income Life for Over 2 years now, and everything that was explained to me in the interview process is 100% legit because I am experiencing it. This is Sales people, there is always a high turn over rate. This company has given me great foundations, more experience then I have ever had before, and the ability to do what I love and that’s interacting with people.SO before anyone else writes that we are a SCAM, maybe you should have actually tried joining the company. If you didn’t work out because it wasn’t for you, then move on, sales isn’t for everyone!!!!!!!
July 29th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
I want to know how do they treat their clients. I am an AIL Client and after signing on discovered that the policy did not meet the needs of my family so I cancelled, when they only cancelled my husband and not mine. Now, I am attempting to get in contact with my agent to get this cleared and unable to get in touch with her or her associate. What’s the deal?
July 29th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
Lyssy,
I was with AIL for over ten years, qualified for every convention and was a top five MGA, RGA and SGA. I can tell you unequivocally that you should start planning your escape now! Their business model is antiquated, their markets are shrinking, their company persistency is ridiculously low, you are captive and have no access to your client info. They have about the same number of agents they had in 1990 but are hiring thousands every month. Do yourself a favor, take the skills you developed there, become a broker with direct contracts, buy some leads and do your thing. You will make more money (cross-selling, high persistency , higher contracts, etc.) and have true job security. Take it from someone who used to sling the snake oil… and was damn good at it!
July 31st, 2010 at 4:13 am
Ive been working for AIL for a week now in New Zealand, we have had free training and been told exactly how the company pays and works, we dont get giving leads first week we did to get started and these were only one month old max..we then generate our own leads, my first week 2appointments so far both sales..its not a hard job if you can hack it right and put in the hard yards 2 appointment is F’all but next week i have over 23appointments..my boss offer support and help and has assisted me in my first few appointments..i have heard nothing but good thing about them over here my boss lives out of town and i dont think he’d waste his time just coming in town to come along to my appointment if he didnt think it was worth it..he makes the money and i intend to also, we also make sure customers are happy..regular birthday cards and so on..maybe somethings wrong in the states if so many people think the companys a scam, and half the people on here that have written bad comments on here about AIl that know people in the company that think the same WELL WHY THE HECK ARE THEY STILL WORKING THERE, i think the more people that do it the less buisness theres going to be which means less money, theres only 5 people in my town so thats hardley any and so far so good.
August 2nd, 2010 at 7:09 pm
American income is a very good company to work for.It is a company that offers very good pay great benifits and the income is not limited.Most people are very comfortable with your typical 9-5 and are happy making 10-12$ per hour.Sales is a very stressful job and takes a skill that in most cases cannot be easily taught(atleast not to everyone)If american income was a bad company then why would it be ranked #1 by yahoo for top insurance companies to work for?why would the company be working with over 20,000 labor unions who employ over 40 million household combined families 1000 credit unions and 2000 organizations.American income is not for everyone insurance in general is not for everyone.You have to be very ambitious and very driven.American income is the only 100% union company in the united states that has to tell you something.If you look at reviews for any company there are going to be bad reviews because in most cases the people writing the reviews were either bad employees or were just not cut out for that peticular feild of work.There are over 3000 agents nation wide and have labor unions that offer there employees benifits through american income.Unions are made up of thousands of employees who join because of the job security and there health and welfare benifits which are made up of american income and employer benifit packages. The members that american income go out and see go equiped with a letter from each union president or union rep and the card that they filled out requesting the additional benifits.DONT BE MAD AT THE COMPANY IF IT DIDNT WORK OUT FOR YOU AGAIN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY IS A VERY TOUGH FEILD TO BE IN AND IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. THAT IS WHAT ALL THESE BAD BLOGS ARE POSTED FOR PEOPLE WHO JUST COULDNT CUT IT.
August 3rd, 2010 at 1:54 am
Id really like to know that if a company wants u to work for them then why should you have to pay for anything at all? If ur dumb enough to give a company money and u havnt made any then ill give u my home address and you can send me all the money u want cause ill b glad to take it cause this company keeps telling everybody that they have 38 billion dollar in assest so that means theres alot of stupid ppl out there with alot of money to give away so id like sum(lol)
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:23 pm
I received several emails from what appear to be several AIL offices, or maybe two are from unscrupulous sales people. The first two emails, from two different people, gave no information about the company or the job, just the same rhetoric ‘I saw your resume on monster and you are a perfect fit for this position’. I always research a company before I go for an interview so that when they ask ‘Do you have any questions?’, I most certainly do. I am educated and have other credentials so I did not find it odd that a company would respond to my resume. After further research, I saw many stories that matched the unfavorable stories posted here and I did not go. Bored now…
However, I then received a very professional upfront email from someone else at AIL. The email itself clearly outlined the position and ‘how it worked’. Nothing hidden, just information. Now, I think I will research what series license this is, and if it is the same series license required by the Federal government to sell Medicare products. If it is, I might look into it further because the most respected and largest health care names in the business will also require this AND WON’T PAY FOR IT…but if you paid for it and got it, I wouldn’t be treating like trash. Start looking at the major insurance companies who require that license of their account managers in a salary + commission world.
Perhaps it is just unfortunate that the way some people choose to make money is by unscrupulous tactics rather than get paid for the work that they do. That is not true of everyone.
August 4th, 2010 at 4:29 pm
it is a scam beware i asked the lady who called me to set up an interview what type of job it is how does the pay work she said she couldent discuss it on the phone because of company policy please people use ur best judgment it is a scam
August 5th, 2010 at 3:51 pm
Just got interview today and everything looks just fine, I met this asian guy and he claims that he’s got the same positions as with the lady who interviewed me, I like to know the nature of their business
that’s what makes me check the internet and ccame across the blog page about AIL, just a surprised to learn that they asking for $700 for your insurance licenses.
August 6th, 2010 at 7:30 pm
Thank you for this heads up, once again, another insurance company called me AIL this time, last time was affleck and farmers. Stupid Ponzi Scheme. USA is full of vultures.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
What, AIL thought I wouldn’t research them a bit?
First off, I get a call from this douschebag saying he got my resume from Career Builder, okay. I’ve been unemployed for over a year, and I apply on there for up to ten jobs a day, so I thought maybe I forgot what job it was I applied for. The first question I asked him, (actually the second one because I asked the same question when I returned his initial voicemail) was “WHAT IS THE POSITION?” A very simple question, and he ignored me and changed the subject. Plus I work in operations, not frickin sales, and he told me my resume looked very promising, and I was “exactly what they needed.” So anywho, I set up the interview, (times are tough), then punched AIL into the net, after getting no information from their website, all of the other search results are people like you bitching about this. It’s solicitation, nothing more. Companies like this need to be charged with crimes.
And anyone who is stupid enough to pay 700 dollars to start working, (unless they are giving you a car or something of value) are probably the reason the economy is screwed up in the first place.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:02 pm
Yeah this is a scam. First off, I work in operations. Inventory Control. Kind of like Internal Auditing. I drive forklifts. I look at the books. Audit the inventory. Solve problems with the company.
Sales is for people experienced in Customer Service. Maybe the recruiter from AIL that called me was retarded or something, because he told me my resume was perfect for the position. Second clue was everytime I asked him about the job, which I had no idea what it was until I researched the company online, he changed the subject and kept asking his douschebag phone interview questions. Me being out of work for over a year, I completed the phone interview and set up a personal interview for tommorrow.
After looking at the company website, and looking here, it seems anyone who would pay 700 dollars to work somewhere for commission is an idiot, unless they give you some actual inventory to take home.
Stay away from this company, and I can’t believe I wasted an hour of my day researching this. I missed out on some Judge Judy, maybe I should take AIL on there for pain and suffering?
August 10th, 2010 at 3:03 am
To JobNot4evryone:
How much of a bonus does AIL give you to do PR?
JobNot4evryone: “DONT BE MAD AT THE COMPANY IF IT DIDNT WORK OUT FOR YOU”
I’m mad because this bullcrap company wasted my time. I wouldn’t try to sell people insurance on the phone if you put a gun to my head. The funny thing is I thought maybe they had something in my field when the idiot on the phone told me “You are exactly what we are looking for in the position.” Asked him what the position was three times, and he changed the subject, telling me I needed to drive an hour one way to find out in the “interview.” It really infuriates me when companies like this get my hopes up. Over 200 jobs I’ve applied for in the last three months, that I’m qualified for, this is the first one that I actually got an interview for that would have completely wasted my time.
Maybe I should go to the interview in “Decent Clothing.” Unless you are a complete loser or retarded, who needs to be reminded they need to look nice for an interview?
Hey AIL, here’s two “business references” for you. I’d like to call Career Builder and Monster to figure out how the hell you got my resume, since all of my online resumes are private, and non-viewable.
August 10th, 2010 at 2:42 pm
Hey JobNot4Evryone,
You assert:
“in most cases the people writing the reviews were either bad employees or were just not cut out for that peticular feild of work”…
Read my post Spelling Bee Champ:
“I was with AIL for over ten years, qualified for every convention and was a top five MGA, RGA and SGA. I can tell you unequivocally that you should start planning your escape now! Their business model is antiquated, their markets are shrinking, their company persistency is ridiculously low, you are captive and have no access to your client info. They have about the same number of agents they had in 1990 but are hiring thousands every month. Do yourself a favor, take the skills you developed there, become a broker with direct contracts, buy some leads and do your thing. You will make more money (cross-selling, high persistency , higher contracts, etc.) and have true job security. Take it from someone who used to sling the snake oil… and was damn good at it!”
Which part of my analysis is factually incorrect?
August 11th, 2010 at 12:48 am
R U nuts??? 200 jobs you applied for??? wow!! Excuse me for being so frank, but is it really Americna Income that sucks?? You need to work harder on finding a job. Get the heck off the blog!!!! Work on your resume! Even a blind squirel can find a nut some where.
August 12th, 2010 at 2:56 pm
Are you all serious.. If you think this is a scam, and you dont want to pay the $1000.00 for the licencing and education, you are lazy. I did this and im making lots of money, yes its commission based, that just means you actually have to work.. its not like working at mcdonalds, where you can be the dumbest person and get the job, you actually have to study hard and work hard to get the licence. The same thing goes if you want to persue a career in pest control, you have to get 2 licences and you need to get a 80% on those exams and you have to pay each time you take the exam.this is a career which you do need schooling for, i could just as easily say to all university and college students.. after you spent not $1000.00 but 20-40000.00 on school and you werent able to find a job did you not ay university was a scam grow up, get lives, stop being so lazy, and actually work.
August 16th, 2010 at 8:25 am
I received my licenses (Series 6, 63, Life and Annuities) and it was PAID training. If you are asked to pay yourself that should be a red flag. If a company pays for the training, there is generally a ‘no-compete’ clause (even in right to work states it is enforceable). These folks that pound their chest and scream to the roof tops about “hard work” is complete B.S. Of course nothing in life is easy; however, when a company has unscrupulous business practices that speaks volumes of how they will treat their employees. My advice to anyone looking to get into this field - go to a company that will pay for this and agree to work for them for a set # of months/years.
August 17th, 2010 at 8:20 pm
I have been with the company for two full years. My quality of business is over 92%. Second year I started to receives once a month the rest amount of advance — always at the same time - 12th on he month. I was surprise at first, because I didn’t know I will be receiving all that money. I feel confident, I know year after year i will receive rest amount of my advance as long as I keep up my quality. I work a lot and I will do everything that my policy holders would be satisfied with the service.
Second thing: I love to travel. This company gives me an opportunity while I am working I can travel and live in different states! (Obviously for those who do not want to pay for their license I would recommend stay home on mom’s couch). I have four state licenses, and I am applying to get fifth one to write business just over the border.
For the ex-state director who is expressing disappointment i can say — I am sorry — you were not a business man, you didn’t have mind of a millionaire and you screw up. My state director is great, we ask for leads we get leads, new people that can’t afford to pay for their own licenses - he pays and asks no return, you need to pay for the hotel in the town that you go road trip and you are new — he will pay for your hotel. Just have a fantastic presentation, good attitude and a good work ethic — policy holders will love you and will book appointment from their own home for you to go and see their family members.
For policy holders: I have seen lots of you: some of you were telling me stories how you family members died and how you were able to use Freedom Of Choice Certificate immediately. You gave me confidence, you gave me energy to go and explain these benefits to more and more families.
Suggestion: When you choose your career — love what you do! Then you will never count hours that you work- it becomes fun and rewarding.
Sales is the best thing in the word! Think about it: without sales our economy would be in a big big hole and no one would have awesome things and benefits. When you think about sales, think about doctors, teachers, cleaners, police officers — they all sell their services to the public : some for salary (a cap), some for salary which depends on the size on their clientele!
For new recruits: Read all good and bad, think with your own mind. Do research why these 40,000 unions and groups work with AIL? Why not with other company?
visit websites: http://www.ailife.com
http://www.mylifeatail.com
http://www.torchmarkcorp.com
http://www.workatail.com
Come for the interview, check out your state director : if you like him, go ahead, if not, check our other state directors, you can move with this company to any state and have same career.
For people that complain that do not spent time with the family : you do not deserve to make a lot of money. You know why? Cause you are not willing to sacrifice. If you say that money is not important for you, why do you think money would stay with you? Don’t have a looser mind! Think as you own the opportunity! Do not listen to the negative people - why? - cause they are like vampires that eat your flesh - they are not happy they want other to be unhappy!
Also I admire our office management: each new trainee while in the training with the management get enough business to make over bonus — it is a start for them. Management does not have to give business away — but they do because they know that it is not easy for trainees to go a week without a paycheck.
I love my life, and life loves me - otherwise I would never be here, serving the union members and their families, making sure that in the event of a loss — they are protected. You know why i can do it so well? Because my company cares about me - pays me well, gives my insurance reimbursement, and always trains me to become a better professional.
Good luck to you new AIL employees — learn you presentation, put 100% into your new career — your company will pay you what you worth!
August 20th, 2010 at 8:55 pm
Hooray for Spartan! I love it!!!!
Can anyone of you commentators name a different profession which you can make over $60K a year within the first year without any formal education, no student loans to pay back for the cost of a license and a short course expense?????
Hello>>>
Sales is where it’s at. Great pay check at a high risk. In any job, you either work or you don’t make the paycheck.
I have a degree. Yet I am a licensed profession in the sales field now for 10 years and it’s been great. I’m now well over $90K in this economy! I took the risk knowing is was comission or nothing. I worked like a dog knowing there is no turning back and it has paid off.
A company gives you a foundation, products, and leads. What more do you want. It’s your job to perform ethically and morally and produce.
If your are seaking a future in sales, get the facts first. It is a given, sales is understood as a commission based profession. It requires someone of strong character and committment. So, like any other profession will reap bonuses and overrides to you or another party within the company.
The insurnace business has survived the recessions and market instabilities. Yet, when we as consumers have needed the benefits. They have paid off.
Stop crying the blues. The 9-5 job might be a better option if you can’t cut the mustard.
August 22nd, 2010 at 10:57 am
I am a young man and i was interviewed by AIL…i am still confused about the whole thing…a lot of people are sayin NO and some r sayin well jus know what ur doin. But no 1 is saying a YES.. I dont think imma take da job…it sounds like a big gamble to me and i dont wanna look like da ass in the long run…Howeva i will check back here to hear more responses…this should be on the 10 o clock new…lol
September 3rd, 2010 at 5:21 pm
Ive been working for AIL for 1.5 years and have enjoyed every minute of it!!!! All of you complaining probably couldn’t hold a job ever!!!! I’m 42 years old and have to say that this is the easiest job I’ve ever had.
September 8th, 2010 at 1:45 pm
Man half these people on here prolly wasnt cut out for Insurance sells. This job is stressful trying to hit numbers every week but when u see $1,500 checks a week to $2,000 a week, its all worth it. No college degree needed and you have the possibility to make $100,000 a year. No brainer and they train u good so u can make it your first year. I wish I would of found this company years ago. All the people who are talking down on it prolly works at close end jobs where the most they could make is $15 an hour. I laugh at that money now. Its opportunity unlimited. You do have to pay for your own schooling and test to get your insurance license. The biggest thing on here that people had wrong. You dont have to pay the company $700 to start. The money you do have to pay dont go to AIL. Great opportunity for young go getters.
September 14th, 2010 at 11:40 am
I’ve been offered a job by AIL (after three separate interviews) and I’m still a little iffy on it. I saw on the South Dakota insurance website that the company is licensed to sell insurance in the state. In this state, I’d have to pay $514 in order to start classes to pass the insurance test. Everything I’ve read about the company is almost 50/50 on the positive and negative reviews. Not sure what I’m really gonna do on this one. Definitely not too psyched about having to pay that kind of money to start working for them. Also, it kind of worried me that in my second interview, they seemed to mainly focus on how much people have made from working there. Only pyramid schemes really focus on that, but I don’t believe they are any sort of scam (as I said, they are licensed to sell insurance in my state). I’m gonna have to think about this
September 17th, 2010 at 10:59 am
So from what I’m reading there seems the vast majority is completely uneducated on the insurance industry as a whole. I have found in my experience there are three reasons people fail in a commission based career. A) They don’t know what’s expected of them to achieve success. B)They don’t know how to do what needs to be done to achieve success. C) They simply don’t want to do what it takes and make the sacrifice to achieve success. I always found it funny when people use the Rip-off Report for their research. That’s like using the Satanic Bible to research Christianity. HAVE ANY OF YOU RESEARCHED THE FOUNDER AND CREATOR OF THE RIP-OFF REPORT? DO YOU KNOW THAT HE IS IN HIDING FROM THE FBI? You want to have some fun doing some research then Google Ed Magedson and see what comes up. Better yet, Google Tiger Woods and see if there is anything negative. Hey I know……Google your own name and see if you believe everything you read! haha
Fact of the matter is, everybody has an opinion and some of them are simply invalid due to lack of CORRECT knowledge and facts. Do you think Bernard Rappaport received the Franklin D Roosevelt based on years of doing the WRONG thing…or could it possibly be because he built a company that is recognized for it’s contribution to the labor forced in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Island and New Zealand and for the lives it’s changed when tragedy finds a family?
http://hubpages.com/hub/Bernard-Rapoport
I personally have watched American Income’s integrity and ability to protect a family first hand MANY times. It’s not just with the insurance products they sell, but when a close friends child went missing and the CHILD SAFE KIT the company provided them was used….not only was the kit essential in the positive outcome of the recovery of my friend Rick’s son, it probably saved his life!!! Thank you American Income for the NO-COST benefits you provide EVERY family who requests it. By the way AIL…how much do YOU pay to provide the NO-COST benefits to families? So they aren’t really no cost because AIL PAYS to provide a little bit more protection to a family than they had before the agent went to see them. Sure..it’s only $1000-$3000 worth of accidental death on the free policy…oh but that’s covering WELL OVER 9 million families because not every one the agents have seen over the years bought other insurance. 9 Million did but with a company average close ratio of 1 in 4…..36 million No-Cost policies with an average of $1500 of coverage…You do the math.
Now..lets talk MLM. At AIL, there is a State General Agent who has Regional General agents he works with. They have Master General Agents they work with and they in turn work with the Career Agents and new trainees. Compensation for management is phenomenal for overrides for the simple fact…they help everyone who is “below them” and deserve to be compensated for the time energy and knowledge they devote to each person who’s success they are responsible for. That said….it’s not a 5,7,10 generational “pyramid” It’s RGA-MGA-AGENT…..oh but here is the thing people don’t get. Every person contracted with AIL in sales/management is an INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR and guess what…they all have the same opportunity!!! When an SGA or an Agent sell an insurance policy they have the SAME CONTRACT…50% commission of the Annualized Life Premium. Ok so that’s AIL pay structure in a nut shell. 100% commission positions with HUGE commissions and equal commission rates regardless of position in the company. Now lets talk about the majority of your jobs. You go to work and clock in because you are an EMPLOYEE. You do your job for your hourly wage and you go home. If there is overtime, the government has ensured your employer will have to compensate you a little bit better for your extra effort. Same for you and Bob, Harry and Sally that you work with. All of your paychecks are the same…..even the lazy guy nobody likes make the same you do come payday. Who makes the biggest check though? Oh right…THE EMPLOYER!!!!! See, he’s figured it into his budget that he can pay you X amount of dollars before it cuts into his profit. Therefore, until the business does better, your wage doesn’t change. Oh but wait…even if the business grows larger profits does he even HAVE to give you a raise? Only if it’s in a written contract. hmmmm, so you are the bottom rung on the ladder and the the guy up top is making WAY more than you and that never changes as long as you remain the employee. So how do you become the owner? Buy him out? Set up a competitive business in the same market? Pretty limited options for being the high man on the totem pole.
Do managers at AIL make more. It would depend on the managers effort and personal non-financial contributions to his team. If the people, who’s success they are responsible for, is on the right track then yes. If the manager decided to be lazy, not make the effort to CARE about their associates ant the associates success then no. I believe in the adage “Take care of people and the money will take care of itself”. That involves hard work and sacrifice while maintaining an positive attitude. If you were with American Income and are now disgruntled and negative towards the company, maybe it was because you didn’t know how to do what was expected of you. Having a management position myself, I would have to say more than likely you were informed of what’s expected before you were hired. Do the words “strong work ethic, a willingness to work hard and a positive attitude” sound familiar. I could say “I’ll be honest with you, it was you” but that would only upset you and I surely don’t wish to hurt your feeling anymore. What I will say is be honest with yourself and inspect your own heart to determine if it was AIL that let you down, or yourself. I know the $1000 I invested in myself for my license was one of the best decisions of my life. Not only that…I don’t have to pay THOUSANDS of dollars a year to maintain it like in other professional fields.
All in all, American Income has NEVER let me down. Have people let me down? Occasionally. I bet if you and I knew each other one of us would eventually let the other down because we are, in fact, fallible by nature. Things will never be AS WE want them. Some people cave under pressure or run from challenges, others thrive on them. This is a tough industry, but I would way rather invest for my license then go to work and NEVER HAVE TO COLD CALL OR GO DOOR-TO-DOOR. Better still, NOT PROVIDE A LIST OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY to sell to!! I have interviewed with other financial “service” companies before and that’s what they require of trier new agents. Thanks again AIL for allowing me to spend thanksgiving and Christmas with my family because you never asked me to harass them with sales calls.
September 19th, 2010 at 8:42 am
So, after reading about half of the posts I see that almost all are about working and interviews for AIL. I want to know About their insurance being a scam or not. I actually have insurance with them now and want to know if its a waste of money and should I go with another company? My salesman was really nice, professional and thorough. I have never received anything from them since we signed up and that has been about a year and a half ago. ?????? Maybe a dedicated employee can answer this one?
September 21st, 2010 at 12:49 pm
I just finished my third interview… I have never given so little information to a possible employer and get offered the job… Everyone from the orientation yesterday were offered a job… As a former private investigator I felt something was strange from the get go, then going through the interview process made me feel this was not a true job… I am sure there is a way to make some money from this company but you have to be a scam artist or know how to work over the system…
September 22nd, 2010 at 10:07 am
I think Mike, Travis and Moby (dick) are the same people..please shut up no one should be paying $700 for a stinking licenses fee are you serious!
September 22nd, 2010 at 10:10 am
LOL @ JCL you’re a fool and I will leave it at that! Tell me though, how much is AIL paying you to post here Mr. Educated?
September 23rd, 2010 at 5:51 pm
I agree with Jason above. JCL is a complete fool, especially if he thinks he’s an “actual” Independent Contractor. No Independant Contractor is required to be at mandatory meetings every Monday and Thursday. It’s especially creepy as he seems to be in love with Bernard Rappaport. Keep drinking the Kool-Aid.
October 4th, 2010 at 2:18 pm
wow! my boyfriend just got an email from this company AND from Banker’s Life & Casualty AND Vanguard Innovations, THEY ARE ALL SCAMS. what a joke! honestly, how stupid do people think we are?
first off, none of their websites matched up with the legitimate websites (Vanguard does not even exist, and i am still unsure about a real American Income Life Insurance). Their emails are unprofessional and shady from the start, asking for information and setting up “group interviews”. every professional setting i have ever been in has felt secure, with questions answered from the moment the employer shows potential interest. with these companies, all i have sensed is evasiveness and shady business.
i went to the university of south carolina and i have my degree in international business. it infuriates me the lengths scam artists go to try and con honest, hardworking individuals out of their money and potential careers. this needs to stop! until then, all we can do is IGNORE IGNORE IGNORE.
October 18th, 2010 at 12:29 pm
I am so glad I found this. AIL called me recently and asked for an interview. I hadn’t heard of the company so I started looking it up, thankfully. I’m already wary about commission sales positions, but I certainly don’t want to work for a Multi-Level Marketing company. MLM means “pyramid scheme” to me.
I will say that I’m a little desperate for a job… but not desperate enough to work here!
Thank you for this heads up, and thanks to all the commenters for their input.
Becca
October 18th, 2010 at 5:13 pm
AVOID
WARNING!! ETC.
They called me three times and left a message each time after I had been submitting resumes indiscriminately. They all sent me and email acknowledging the fact that I had not responded to their calls and asked me to call them at a specific time.
NO PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION WOULD EVER DO THAT. I have no credentials related to insurance sales at all, and the pursuit they have shown me is completely unjustified. Any reasonable company would never call someone that has NOT RESPONDED TO THREE SEPARATE PHONE CALLS.
At the very least, if there isn’t something shady, unethical, or even illegal going on there, it’s just a Hire and Fire operation, trying to hire AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE and then seeing which one or two people will survive as sales people.
I realize this is how a lot of sales positions work, but this company has taken it to the extreme, and there’s got to be something shady going on there.
Even if you are DESPERATE FOR EMPLOYMENT, AVOID THIS COMPANY.
Nothing good could ever come from this company that would benefit you, and you’ll probably get tangled up into something you don’t want to be in.
October 19th, 2010 at 8:17 pm
I just got a call from the “Scheduling Person” for an interview. I asked why would an insurance company call me I have no insurance background at all? She told me it was as a result of my resume on Monster.com… OK now I get it! I get these scam calls every so often, and all of them come from a monster troll.
My advice is to stay away from these predators. No good can come from this type of trolling. And any person who post here in defense of American Income Life is a troll for American Income Life , period. Thousands of scam notices on the net about this company. Just like pre-paid legal, Primerica, it’s a no win situation. Google/Yahoo “AIL”… its a scam.
October 20th, 2010 at 12:54 am
I am literally shocked that this thread is this long. To start out, when I interviewed for my position at AIL… I already knew it was a 100% commission position, and yes you are an independent contractor. I have been recruited over the years by the likes of MetLife & New York Life. They all told me the same thing, pay for the course, pay for your license… oh and by the way I want you to write down 200 of your friends and family so you can write Insurance on them. I chose AIL instead. Working with Union families is more my line of work.
Have had the fortune to meet up with some great people high up in the Federations & Unions that we deal with in my territory. Actually have met some real life policy holders that have cashed out on a few cancer policies and overnight stays in the hospital. It was nice to know that the company I represent actually paid out claims immediately and directly. Had a woman tell me last week that they had a life Insurance policy with us 8 years ago. Husband was killed in a motorcycle accident after only making 2 premium payments. AIL paid the family $30,000 just like the Freedom of Choice Certificate said. All of the families said the same thing, glad that we had the opportunity to have someone from AIL come into their home and explain Insurance to them. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have any of their policies. Say whatever you’d like about AIL, I know they pay their claims instead of holding onto paid premiums for 60-90 days while the fat cats are earning cash due to someone’s misfortune.
October 20th, 2010 at 10:25 pm
I worked for this company for 4 months……….4 months too long. It is a legit company, however the way that they go about there business is rediculous and very misleading to its’ customers.
They sell a combination package with a small whole life policy and a larger term policy. Except that they tell the customers that it is a permanent policy that will never change. Once they have their customers on the books, they then have sales reps call them about 7-10 times per year to go out there and change their term to whole life, which will cost them between 3-5 times what they are paying.
Can you make a lot of money……..yes, I saw managers who do. But I could not sleep at night if I were them…I compared their rates once I left, and there “best in the industry whole life rates” are far from it.
I would advise that you do not waste your time or money on this failing company………..yes FAILING. They advertise that they are a Fortune 700 Insurance Company..But they are not, they are not. Their parent company is however. But they have gone from a Fortune 300 company to a Fortune 400, then 500, and shot straight down to 700.
Good luck to any customers of AIL, I feel for what you will go through.
October 29th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
me and my kids are gonna be homeless soon i was gonna take the class and work real hard now im about to cry what should i do???
October 30th, 2010 at 11:53 am
I just received a phone call today from a woman named Dani at AIL. This call came at 9:45am on a Saturday. Never in my life have I been called by a company on a weekend for an interview. KInda smells like desperation to me. Now she DID say they had sales AND managament positions available. Well here is my dilema: I am a pharmacy technician with over six years of pharmacy and retail experience, no sales.
So my question is to four or five people who have made comments here supporting the companies practices: How can u sit at your computer, at your desk, and say that the people who aren’t still employed with this company are “weak” or “not born sales people”, or “lazy” or have “poor work ethics” when it is your company that is hiring individuals who clearly are not qualified sale sausage door to door let alone insurance? That’s no different than if I were recruited by an investment banking firm and my only experience is in cake decorating or something. How can you back that up?
I’m not a stranger to hard work. I worked with a company for a year, where my hours were usually 10-12 hour days every day (overtime was mandatory otherwise they’d just throw you in the schedule where they wanted to) including every other weekend and I loved the money I was making but unfortunately a schedule like that really isn’t conducive with getting a college education so I had to quit. So I find it a little had to believe that over 300 people here are lazy and didn’t want to put in the work, especially in this economy. Clearly its a matter of the poor practices of AIL.
October 31st, 2010 at 11:36 am
Well first I wanna say thanks… I’ve been unemployed for about 5-8months and when I got the e-mail I was pretty excited but I started lookin at it and got a little paranoid. My first clue was the name(Roger Smith CEO) he was saying my resume is perfect..I’m a frickin labourer not a salesman so I had to check online and found this and more like it so thanks again everyone
November 1st, 2010 at 8:03 pm
Was contacted by this organization and it seemed strange form the phone conversation. Who makes mention be sure not to cancel on an interview? I did my research and found out that a lot of people seem to be upset about this organization and it made me very uncomfortable to even think about interviewing with AIL. It is so annoying that they keep contacting me.
November 2nd, 2010 at 7:53 pm
MLM are scams, yes they work but eventually you run out of people to recruit there are only so many people that you can talk into joining. Also the only people who really make money are the ones setting these MLM up. I’ve seen so many of these because they always have to reinvent themselves. And every one of them have the same pitch. Products may very but it is always the same routine. 1. first you are recruited usually with how much money you can make and how easy. 2nd You are told you have to invest and or buy the “official” whatever it is kit they have (This is where the scammers get their money) They prettified by saying it is a license, demo kit, investment whatever. Then you have to recruit others to work under you. Whatever product you sell you get a piece of, also whatever the person you recruited sells you get a piece of that. the more people you sign up the more money you make.
This is what they don’t tell you. 1. YOU have to live breathe and eat this scheme in order to make money. 2. How many people do you know? Because eventually you are going to run out and most people are just not interested in what you have to sell. 3. You have to be pretty deceptive to get people to join.
November 3rd, 2010 at 9:20 pm
I am pissed. My SGA cursed me out, saying F@@@ You, like a mad man, repeated it over 20 times, I then hanged up on him, very unprofessional. Because I asked a question during a professional conversation we were having, “Where is the integrity of the business”. The reason I asked this question was, my SGA (State General Agent) paid a business deal that I have resolved and completed to my RGA (Regional General Agent).
Given that I have all the documentations of the work being done, did my follow ups, and emails to request for the reopening of the client’s case. The client was involved and is willing to testify on my behalf about my work ecthics and my constant follow ups. My client states “he was mislead by my RGA about that I am no longer handling the case”. Which was verified by my MGA.
I have heard roomers about people taking advantages whenever possible to steal your businesses. I now believe it. It’s a dark company, I used to recommend AIL, but now I am regretful that I even try to recruit my own family members to work with them.
How can a great leader, do such ungreatfulness, is it because of their rank in power, gives them the right to curse me out like you won’t believe. Also with the final decision on who gets the business and the pay. So please do believe all the negatives in other reports. I was a believer in AIL, after my personel experiences, I would say, “Becareful”.
Where is the integrity of it all??
November 6th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
I got cold called the other day by a rep for this company. She claimed she saw my resume on careerbuilder, but my resume there isn’t supposed to be public. I’m still investigating that, because this isn’t the only call I’ve gotten. Anyway, I was told I was a “perfect fit” for their company. She gave me zero information, she actually sounded rather rushed on the call, like she didn’t have time to answer questions, etc. And I was left wondering how I was “perfect.” My entire resume is nothing but retail work with a 3 year break where I worked on armored cars delivering money.
I’m not happy to hear about the money spent up front. Any company where I had to obtain a certain license either wanted me to already have said license to be considered for the job, or they offered training and a way to obtain the license on their dime, usually with a contract stating I’d work for them for at least a year or I would owe them the money back. Sounds like a red flag to me.
I have an interview scheduled for Monday, I don’t think I’ll go. I’m sort of curious about the process, though, so I may still go just to get a closer look for myself.
November 8th, 2010 at 11:06 am
i was contacted for an interview. I returned the call stating that i am already a licensed producer currently representing other insurance agencies. Suddenly, the AIL company had filled all positions and I was not contacted for a second interview. Strange as I am doing very well with my other appointments. I didnt need to come up with 700 for licensing classes due to the fact that I am already an independent producer, scam? I can’t say for sure but remember, “let the buyer beware.” Maybe a quick call to the NAIC or the OFIR is in order before proceeding just to be on the safe side. Good luck.
November 17th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
I interviewed for this company here in Missoula, Montana, and it was a joke. At least they were upfront that their leads are backed up by *8 months*!From what I’ve read here, you can certainly make a lot of money with this company — at the expense of your conscience (that is, if you even have a consceince in the first place)! Sadly, there are so many in this country who think it’s right to scam people for the sake of money to support their family. Pathetic
November 19th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
I worked in the London Ontario office, where they were ignorant to women, never lived up to there promises and fired a former minister because he spoke up about how they treated certain people. They would bitch and yell at you if your sales numbers were not up. I paid over $700 for hte books and schooling and later found out that half that money goes to the company not the schooling. That is how they stay in business. Very unprofessional. Stay away from AIL. It’s a scam.
November 29th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
The biggest issue I have is the dishonest sales practices. THe only thing that got the girl in the door was “I’ll just stop by to let you know about the free insurance you get with your association membership. Then, she sucker punched us with “as grandparents certainly you understand that these ‘child safety kits’ may help recover you grandchildren within that critical 24 hour time frame after they are abducted. You do want your grandchildren to be safe don’t you?” then asked if she could “help us out and deliver them to our daughter for us… save us the time” What a deceptive and hostile sales pitch… then, after showing up late for an appointment with my 80 year old parents, she found the door locked (Late is so disrespectful!) so thought she’d just wander over to my daughter’s house whose appointment the sales rep hadn’t even bothered to show up for two weeks earlier. After weasling her way into the house, she proceeded to insult my son-in-law for not being a good “head of the household” because he was not interested in her sales pitch.
Now, I may not be “cut out for sales” but if that’s what this company is promoting as effective sales techniques, perhaps these “disgruntled ex-employees” are on to something. There is really no need to insult, demean or disrespect people in order to sell them something… at least in my world.
As a result, I have cancelled all of my policies with AIL which I got “free” from the association I belonged to; eventually, that “free” perk turned into 100/month because I “clearly didn’t care enough for my family if I didn’t buy…” I cannot and will not support a company that encourages these kinds of hostile tactics… people don’t buy because they want to, they buy to get you out of their homes…
Integrity is a dying value…
December 3rd, 2010 at 9:54 am
I received a phone call today asking me to come in for an interview. The only thing they lied about was that they didn’t say it was for a commissioned sales position because if they had I wouldn’t have accepted. I went for two interviews with AFLAC (you know the “duck” commercials). If you want to work for a good company that hires commissioned sales representatives, apply at AFLAC. They do not lie, they tell you the costs of getting your license and they also tell you that you will be a commissioned sales representative, but they work only with companies, so you do not have to sell to individuals. I do not want to work in sales at all. I am an HR professional who is out of work at this time and I will find something in my field if I am patient. If you don’t know what you want to do for a career, you may want to try commissioned sales and if it works for you, then great! If it doesn’t then you will need to try something else. Don’t be angry when you post here, be honest, because if AIL was honest, they wouldn’t have the issues they have that are listed on this site.
December 5th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
I was talked ino buying an isurance policy with american invcome life after i agreed to meet with an agent in my home. The company called me and set the appointment so i could get some free coverage on a loan i had. No mention of anything else. i was told i had until the following week to cancel before the agent would submit my application, but when i called the agent he said i would have to cancel it when i recieved my policy in the mail. unfortunaly i had given him a check for the first preamium. one month and another premium payment later, i finaly got the policy in the mail. i mailed it right back with a letter saying i wanted it canceled and wanted my money back. i never heard form them. they kept taking the premium out each month and didn’t return my calls. six premiums in total i payed before i finaly got it canceled. i only got one payment back because the said i had coverage all that time. they suck giant monkey cock.
December 7th, 2010 at 1:07 pm
Ok I have a interview with them tomorrow. All these people are saying no job asks you to pay them to be hired. Well I’m guessing none of you sold real estate or been in the medical feild or even went to college because you have to pay for all of those. College is a scam then and any job you need a degree in. Cause you have to pay for that degree to be able to work there right? You also have to pay for any liscense that you get to sell real estate and insurance. So my point is just because you have to pay to get your liscense doesn’t make it a scam. Also I have work for a lot of places that nomatter how hard you work the pay sucks and you never get a raise when promised. My last point is I don’t even work for them but even if it turns out to be a bad company to work for doesn’t make it a scam. I have worked alot of places that were crappy to work for and that most of the people that I worked with dont work there anymore. Does that make them a scam too? No it doesn’t it just makes them a bad place to work for me. Maybe I will do good in this company maybe I won’t but you know what I won’t know unless I see for myself. Cause just because it didn’t work out for someone else. Doesn’t mean it wont work out for me.
December 7th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
AIL is a legit company. Majority of you people were not able to do the sales thing and failed miserably so you take your anger out by calling it a scam. Its not a MLM its only second generation you can’t have 1000 agents under you. Direct sales is a highly compensating job to have, plus the residuals in the industry are ridiculous( in a good way). The company meets with unions and association members to deliver the no cost benefits they signed up for and then the agents show them what their union/association has set up for them additionally. I’m making five to eight hundred dollars a sale and doing this four five times a week. I work like 5 6 hours a day. Yes you have to pay up front costs when you begin but you fucking retards dont understand the concept of being licensed to sell a product your basically self employed you must be recognized by your province/states insurance council. Each agency has their own recruiting standards, i would hire 100 people if i could becasue at the end only 4 or 5 are going to be succesful agents. This is not an easy business and if you can develop your agency your laughing you’ll be retired at age 30 with 100k a year in residuals
December 9th, 2010 at 2:45 am
I am the owner of a recruiting firm in the Midwest. We focus solely on the financial industry and more specifically on financial advisory and insurance sales positions. I have a wide-range of comments I would like to make, though I will keep my comments limited to the area of my expertise.
I’d like to clear-up some misinformation about the industry itself:
There are companies that do pay for all fees and licensing.
Many companies do pay you during your training. The most common structure in these tougher economic times is for a company to pay a small stipend of around $1,500-2,000 per month, commission, and full benefits after 30, 60, 90 days. There are a wide variety of payment/income/commission type structures. AIL offers the least financially up-front, but only just below the middle of the pack in terms of commission splits.
Independent insurance sales agents do pay all their own fees, though they aren’t bound to one company. If you have required meetings or a “boss,” you aren’t an independent contractor.
Recruiters for AIL do seem to often use the word salary and in fact in many of their job ads they do list a salary. That is certainly poor ethics, can be considered illegal in most states, and leads to many of these complaints on message boards. It is, of course, effective at soliciting responses. They seem to go with the recruiting philosophy of getting as many people in the doors a possible. There are other companies that do that.
There are companies that pay base salaries. You’re over-all income potential will be lessened, but there are companies that will pay a base of 45k for a non-experienced/licensed individual (yes, generally they need to be educated and meet various qualifications) and often these companies will pay upwards of 50=55k for someone with their license but that does not have a transferable book of business (which is what you would be if you paid for your classes and licensing on your own). Granted, these jobs are tougher to come by.
Yes, some people who decided to work for AIL will end up doing well and making money. However, there is not a single person out there in which I’d recommend AIL. I would not use the word “scam,” and say the company is a scam overall. Their recruiting practices or at least the way in which their recruiting plays out does violate some laws. Their sales tactics are questionable. Though, the products are legitimate, not the best products, but not the worst. Scam – probably not. Though, I’d avoid this company at all cost.
December 17th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
iOWA EXPERIENCE
Im not going to get into my whole story. I will tell you that you are a robot for this company. They hire anyone who comes in. But try to make you feel important as if you were selected. “Did you apply, or did they call you saying “We recieved your resume from Careerbuilder”? They bought it from CAREERBUILDER”. You did not send it. Everything is scripted, and if you don’t say what they want then your always reminded to stay on scipt or not work there. The Main Boss Eric Cochran (State Director) always makes sexual jokes, and rude comments towards Ryan who is a very pretty young gal. And he makes fun of people in front of others during meetings. He will say he cares about you and your family then make you sound like an idiot during a meeting with other agents. Spend all your money on gas only to waste your time. I did make money, averaged $400 week, but then people would cancel after words and i would get charged back what I was paid. So really I did’nt after a month. I only stayed there for 3 months. Which was to long. They do have a good MGA “Manager” James. Wish I could have been on his team. He actually care about his people and customers. But when hired you have no choice on this MLM Company. Ryan is rude, but look how Eric treats her. It’s a law suite waiting to happen. My advice STAY AWAY!!!! Go to Aflac, Combined Insurance, or HealthMarkets if you want to do small policies. Im going back to the job I should have never left. Again STAY AWAY!!!!
December 20th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
I would say this is a scam, hence why I searched this company online. I received a call from an out of area number and also received an email from AIL requesting an interview. As sad as it is, I constantly research any company that requests me for an interview incase of a possible scam. After receiving the strange call and email, I then received a local number calling me. This number I researched as well and it was from a number that belonged to a commercial suite rental service. A lady left a message this time and it sounded like she was reading from a typed message and I could tell she had to look down for the number with the few second pause she made when locating the number. I will NOT be contacting AIL back for any reason!
December 21st, 2010 at 10:58 am
Funny how some are defending this company! I can assure you they are mangers told to do this. The company itself sells policies to every day blue collar people. No scam in that. Well, just a little if you read between the lines. It is how they hire and treat their employees. I was a hiring manager there for about 2 years. My job was to call and bring in as many people to interview as I could. We would push anyone through to the second interview that had a pulse. I was told to look for people who could afford to pay the $850 to the company. I’ll get into the fees later. During the second interview a manager would do a presentation and show a video to pump up the company. If anyone said anything during this presentation the manager would make some smug comment to try shut this person up by embarrassing them. After the hour presentation they all would be invited back for a short 1 on 1 interview with the manager. A lot of the times people would just leave after the second presentation. During the 1 on 1 you are asked if you can afford the schooling and you are given an information package to go home and read. You are also told to wait by your phone the next day as you may be called back for the 3rd and final interview. If you made it through the second interview (anyone breathing can) then you are called back for the 3rd interview. During the 3rd interview they put you on the spot. They want you to feel small and act like they are taking something away from you. They then pump you up and get you to pay the $800 plus.
Here is how your money breaks down once you pay AIL. The hiring manger receives a chunk of it. I was given $200.00 for every person we hire. Torchmark pays AIL monthly for new hires. So the more AIL hires the more money they make. The first 2 people they hire they get $150. per person. Every person after that they get $400. So you see, they are making a lot of money just off hiring people.
Now your $800 doesn’t go just to books. AIL takes half and says that goes to admin fee’s ect. Well it took me an hour to process your information. Then they say it goes to mentoring as well. Shouldn’t a manager be doing that anyway? The schooling can cost anywhere from $150-300. Depending on the company you go with.
I just left this company a month ago after they fired two agents for speaking out on a couple issues. Please save your money and time and stay away from this company.
December 21st, 2010 at 8:05 pm
I think this is a scam.
December 27th, 2010 at 8:24 pm
It is a scam.
1) The agents have to memorize a 6 page script that is phycologically profiled to make the target audience beleive there is a problem and AIL is the solution.
2) The insurance is simply 10 year renewable and whole life which is packaged together.
3) The income replacement is a 10 year renewable/convertable policy which is paid out over 1 to 3 years - any insurance company will do that. This policy is about 2 times as much as any other company’s policy of the same type.
4) The final expenses policy is simply a whole life with an “assignemet” whereby the company will pay the funeral expenses. The script talks about “interest” funeral parlours charge- guess what, the interest is still there under an assignment. But again this policy is about 2 x as much as any other company. Is it really worth it if you can get twice as much for the same cost? If there is a problem the company will claw-back the payout.
5) If you do not beleive me about how expensive AIL is then have an agent com to your house, get the price and shop around. If you have a policy then take it to a financial advisor.
6) The health policy can be purchased from a lot of banks.
7) The part about children is simply a child waiver, but in AIL case when your child turns 21 they are charged the smoker rates.
9) Cancelling is virtually impossible. You will have to put a stop payment at a bank if you change your mind about the policy.
10) If you want a “Paid up at 65″ policy it will be 280% greater in price than a mainstream company such as Freedom 55, Manulife, Deschardine or Sun Life charges for a policy whith the same face amount that will be paid up in 20 years.
11) The vesting of renewals is the worst in the industry wherebye you have to be in the company for 10 years. Vesting simply means that if you leave the company than the commisions paid for clients that have renewed (paid monthly) will still come to you. If you work at AIL take a good look- you will find very few agents approaching 10 years. Why? If the manager releases you before 10 years the manager recieves your renewals.
December 28th, 2010 at 11:19 pm
First I would like to say I have been with AIl for a month. My mentors seemed resonable and nice they promised big pay outs being aware this is a commision company I understood that I would have to do the leg work. I was fine with that. I enrolled in the school for 150.00 which they are suposed to teach you everything you know. I studied like a mad dog and did the 4 webinars when taking the Mock 1 i failed the first time it was like going to this school I learnt nothing. They they said I had to secure my position with the company and pay the 312.00 which I did studied even harder and did even worse the second time around which I was very confused. They were not happy cause to do the provincal its 100.00 and the licenses is 225.00 which I get that as well. I have decided not to go with this company because I have not heard very good things about there truth and honesty. Although I have to admit during the first week I had alot of phone calls walking me threw things it was great at first but then I heard once you pass everything and spend ur money you have to buy there soft wear for your computer?. The only real good thing about all this is you basically consider your self self employed in which case you can write off certain things like gas, phone use part of ur home. But Its hard to make money this way and pay for things up front I was wondering I called them tonight to tell them I want my 312.00 back cause I heard it takes 6 months to get it back will I get it????? I kow the school fees you dont get back I already spoke to them they were not happy with me
also the one other thing that bothered me I paid the 312.00 admisitration fee and ppl from AIL are still emailing me with job oppurtunitys says they have not heard from me yet whats that about?
December 30th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
I interned at a Big4 Accounting firm then at Johnson and Johnson, jacking in a ton of cash… then I submitted my resume to a craigslist ad and received a call from a douchy woman. My plan was to have this as a part-time job during my senior year of college.
I went to the first round, made it to second round, then i was hired on the spot in the 2nd round after a lunch with a manager. he seemed very cool and chill. One thing i did notice is his verbal reaction to some of the food we were eating, Thai Food, and I was suspicious on how someone with his professional status was good at a Sales position if he handled weird food tasting a bit immaturely. Something was not right…. this guy with his gucci belt and attitude was not of someone that deserves 200k plus. He just seemed cheap.
I just paid the 175 dollar course prep fee. after reading all this, i am now out. thank you guys for the concise information. I was about to choose this over a big Investment bank in new york.
you guys have no idea how thankful I am for this entire forum/article posting.
thank god I can afford to just walk away.
December 31st, 2010 at 5:45 pm
OK so FYI to everyone they told me today that theree is no refund!!! Which is BS because I was never trained never signed anything with the company, so there you have it I lost 462.00 so far over this company not to mention the 160.00 in gas. They pray on ppl and dont tell the truth for those of you that have interviews be very cautious. I got burnt bad and I am a sigle mom of 2 they promised never ending money and then I found out about paying into it its gonna cost about1k in the end. Any good job does not make you pay to be with them. I just wish I would not of trusted them. Be very careful about this company.
January 1st, 2011 at 5:50 am
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ at anonymous
go look at the definition of a scam you retard
1) You don’t HAVE TO memorize a script its so you can learn you think it’s easy to sit in front of a client for 1 hour… you going to talk about the weather? You have to learn the basics and start from a foundation i was actually glad there was a script
2) The “insurance” your referring to is the program that familys enroll into. It consists of Whole life, 10 year r and c, and livingaccident/sickness benefits. It’s packaged together and presented as a program for the entire family, which in my opinion the benefits are pretty dam good ( although maybe not for everyone given your needs)
3)Settlement options for how you want your insurance paid out to you…. yes any company will pay it in monthly yearly or lump sum installments… how the hell is this a point referring to AIL being a scam? Insurance is a competitive industry of course rates will differ across the board
4) Funeral benefit is a whole life policy. Most companies don’t pay out benefits for at least 6 months since they investigate the claim etc… this funeral benefit ensures benefits are paid on the spot so you don’t have to pay for it and wait to be reimbursed with insurance proceeds. Interest is no big deal what about probate taxes and estate fees? It just depends how good you are and how you explain the need to your clients. And when you say they will claw-back benefits that is BS.. AIL claim payouts are superior amongst the industry check out A.M. BEST the company’s been rated A plus superior for that reason (claim paying ability). So stop yapping your mouth
5)Again insurance is a competitive industry obviously rates will differ DEPENDING on the type of benefits and health status. ( ie. Whole Life, Accidental Death Benefits etc)
6) True the health policy can be but majority of those your premium increases the more you claim. AIL’s benefits make the claims process quick and introduces these types of benefits to the client in a unique away. Most people are not aware of health sickness benefits and so awareness is created when the packaged programs are presented. How does selling something other companies sell make this a scam?… Retard
7) Child Riders. Attractive feature goood for maximizing your sales and HEAD START programs for the little ones ensure a longer stream of renewals for yourself. Whats this crap about smoker rates? If you don’t smoke your not going to get a smoker rate you dumb shithead. And FYI children all have guaranteed insurability options meaning regardless of health or habits (diabetes, tobacco user) they actually get standard rates at age 21
9) Its not impossible it takes one phone call to your agent or to the toll free number where you just tell them your policy number and it’s done.
10) Life paid up policy’s will depend on the age you are when you get into it. I have not seen the rates from Manulife or Freedom 55 so no comment
11) Your vested lifetime after 10 years. If you work for 3 years your vested for 3 years. If your 25 and work till 35 and do the average you will still make about 25 to 50 k in yearly renewals. That takes care of most peoples fixed costs your telling me that’s not worth it ? NO OTHER COMPANY WILL PAY OUT LIFETIME RENEWALS. Think outside the box if you become the manager renewals are coming to you.
SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE IN THE LIFE INSURANCE INDUSTRY WILL USUALLY RETIRE ON AVERAGE BY AGE 35
January 2nd, 2011 at 7:48 am
Does anyone know anything about Ascencea Life Insurance? are they a scam?
January 3rd, 2011 at 2:17 pm
American Income was a BIG mistake, and poster G is typical of the condescending attitude of the managers. It is not the product I have issue with, it is the management, training and general way people are treated that is sick, wrong, abusive and is generally a good place to avoid. You are hired as independent contractors, you pay for everything, and in the NE office the state manager was too cheap to repair/provide a copier for the sales team. Managers had to use their own computer printers. People were required to go to meeting in afternoons and stay until 9 pm for call night, and were LOCKED into the building because they were afraid people would leave. They demand 2 wasted days in offfice, and expect you to work every other hour of your time for them. People coming in as potential new hires are used WITH NO PAY to make calls for managers setting appointments, managers hack off — doing as little as possible hile brow beating prople to keep on the phones. They do not want peopel to really get to know one another, as their uneven treatment of people will become obvious. no one stays for long. The state manager recently stepped down — in reality he was not making the numbers home office wanted so he was demoted along with many others. Now just 3 managers — all male. They dumped the women. too bad, and have a new state director that is worse than a cheerleader on speed. Somehow this agency can not keep top management- maybe they should look at how they treat their people before they go further. THIS is one company to AVOID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 3rd, 2011 at 2:36 pm
American Income promises many great lead sources. . . NOT I came to work for them and the leads were to come from union letters where members responded, from hard cards (those were people who got some no cost benefits and bought nothing) Globe leads — these were the leads Globe insurance a supposed sister company couldn’t get anyone to buy from, and finally child safe kit sign up cards- these were placed by agents for people to sign up for a FREE child ID kit.
Well the union leads were never fresh — from 8 months old to 5 YEARS old. If one agent didn’t sell them, they were dumped back in the system and given to the next new guy. people had forgotten by the time agents called them.
Duplications were unbelievabally high.
The book of business you are supposed to be building?? What a joke, at renewal time they were fair game for anyone who got them in their book of leads.
One guy did nothing but call on people who were clients already and sold them some more. Thwew was no respect for clients or agent of record. It was all over the place. Unethical really.
Globe leads were a lot of uninsurable or dead people by the time they came to AIL.
Hard cards were people who just wanted free, and child safe responders were some who wanting free again, but sometimes you could find some one to buy.
No one stays too long.
AIL had a contest to make people post good comments on these sites — they wanted agents and managers alike to post a good comment a day for 2 weeks to counteract the truth that was being revealed by people in the real world. then someone might win an Ipad or something. Never heard of anything being awarded. Just like their contests — scams.
Remember to stay AWAY from American Income Life.
January 6th, 2011 at 10:34 am
American Income, well what can I say, NOT what they say they are. There is no uniform training, so people learn different things and depending on who trained you how good you will be. Now the company wants to go all to laptop and has removed all paper apps. So guess what, if the computer deal acts up — and believe me there are still so many BUGS in the system it will — you have no app, no sale and no way to save it. Then you are yelled at by the manager. Locked in?? !! you better believe it. The managers are REQUIRED to LOCK the doors on people inside in the evening. And there are no crash bars on the doors in case of fire. Mamagers dis one another, especially the women managers get the bad press. She didn’t train you right. Plus, the level of education at this place is pretty poor They don’t not even talk in good grammer nat’tal. We know what you guys have went through. — you get the idea. An abusive place to be. DO NOT TAKE A JOB WITH AMERICAN INCOME.
January 28th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
I would like to thank you guys for that infomation.It saved me some time and money.
January 31st, 2011 at 2:52 pm
American Income Life just called me today to come in on Wednesday for an Interview, I mean reading all of these comments really discourage me to go. This one is Fort Myers Florida, She didn’t give me any information on what they where selling, She said she seen my resume on the internet but wants a fresh one when I come in!!! How can people do this to others.. I am a single mother raising my child on my own. Goodness knows how many other people they have done this too. But this is horrible. hank you to all of you guys for leaving these comments or I would have gone and got sucked into a world of HECK…
February 2nd, 2011 at 12:18 am
I got a call Ail. After reading this, I am sure I am not going for an interview.
February 8th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
I received a email from eric giglone. His email was nothing but scam. Hes asking for my resume saying how major expansion of his area blah blah blah. I dont want to hear his crap. Thankfully i came across this website. thanks again
February 10th, 2011 at 4:40 pm
In 2007, I received a call from AIG and was asked to come in for an interview because they had found my resume on monster.com and thought I was a good match for them. I was perplexed because I had no sales or insurance experience on my resume, but I had been out of work almost a year and figured it couldn’t hurt to go. One of their top team leaders (who later ended up being my boss) addressed the group of about 40-50 applicants. She described her own meteroic rise in a short period of time as an example of what a great opportunity it was to work for AIG and how it offered its agents the opportunity to make big money. She explained fully that this was a commission-based position. There was never any doubt that this was not a salaried position. She also told us that there was no COLD CALLING, that AIG management signed up new unions every month and the union members sent in requests for an agent to contact them about AIG products, which would be distributed to us. Those of us who were interested stayed on to speak one-on-one with another agent. The guy I spoke to was also a team leader (ironically, a month after he interviewed me he was stripped of his team leader status because his team didn’t meet their numbers; he was reduced to the same level as new agents just coming aboard-that was my first clue that something was very wrong there). I asked him in my interview why they had called me. He looked at my resume and told me that it was because of my management experience. Once you climb the ladder and become a team leader, you have to deal with other people and effective management skills are essential. Anyway, I went to the insurance school they recommended (later I suspected a kickback scheme was part of their relationship). The teacher was an arrogant, nasty SOB who rushed through the course materials, which were so outdated and poorly prepared you wondered what you had plopped down $350 for. There were 12 AIG applicants in the class when we started. Two quit in the first week. Only 1 of the remaining 10 passed the exams on the first try (a real testament to the SOB’s teaching prowess, I’d say). Against the SOB’s advice, I retook the exams on separate days rather than together because I knew that taking them together was messing me up (I was mixing up the statistics). I passed both exams on the second try and reported on a Monday to AIG. Monday was rally day at AIG; The Big G assembled all his agents at 11:00 a.m. for a pep talk and the distribution of commission checks. Those who had big weeks were applauded; those who did not just shrank down in their seats and sheepishly reached out for their checks. The sales teams were supposed to sit together. I couldn’t find anyone from my team so I just sat anywhere (great first impression). As it turned out, the 4 senior people on my team didn’t show because they were embroiled in a big argument over a shared commission and the agent who was losing out stormed out of the office and went home and another followed her home to calm her down). Despite not being able to sit with my dysfunctional team, I thought the whole show was great. The Big G was so inspiring! I had never experienced anything like that with any other company. Little did I know. Later I learned that those who didn’t have good weeks just didn’t show up on rally day and picked up their piddly checks another day to avoid embarrassment. The AIG training came next. We were all assigned to teams (like i said I got the doll who had addressed the prospective applicants the day I went). She was into spiritual epithets and psycho-babble big time-later I realized she had to do that in order to get through any given day at that place. It insulated her from the horror of working there. Back to the training-it was terrible. We were badgered and bullied into learning about their products. The trainers were told to get us out of the classroom and out on the road to sell as quickly as possible so they glossed over a lot of important details that eventually we had to learn as we went along. The final training exercise was videotaping our presentation to a prospective client. I was lucky; they never got to me. Everything just went downhill from there. Following the big rally on Mondays, everyone was free for a few hours to go to lunch or whatever. Upon their return about 3:00 p.m., all agents had to get on the phones. Either you were on the phone recruiting new applicants or making appointments with prospective clients. Let me take a moment to describe the phone area for calling prospective clients. There were a couple of huge conference tables with many phone lines. Wires were everywhere; now that I think about it, I should have just faked a trip and fall and sued their asses off. That would have saved me a lot of grief. All the agents were assigned regions; I was teamed up with a lady who covered 3 towns. At first, I was given little piles of tear-offs with names and phone numbers of people in her 3 towns to make appointments. Then those stopped coming and I was given printouts of client lists from my team leader’s computer. It only took me a couple of calling sessions to figure out that 1) I WAS cold calling and 2)the names I was given had been recycled, maybe more than once; these people had been called previously and many had been visited by an agent before. I had to accompany my mentor on her appointments until I sold a policy on my own. I drove around with her for 4 days so I could see how it was done. She didn’t sell anything. She also didn’t use the canned pitch we were badgered into learning. Then she let me try. I couldn’t sell anything either. The people we visited were quite elderly, many were retired, some were on disability and were housebound, and most were living from hand to mouth (and this was before the big recession) and couldn’t afford any more life insurance. The worst day was when she dragged me to Atlantic City. A long list of names that were never called due to a computer glitch had been found (that’s what we were told anyway), and the company asked for agent volunteers to spend a day in the area visiting these folks (I couldn’t believe how many agents jumped at the chance to go; later I figured out that it was like offering fresh meat to lions-they weren’t used to selling to folks who had never had a visit from AIG before). Well, the standard of living in the area is substandard so most of these people had no money to buy life insurance policies. They mostly lived in old shacks and many lived in crime-ridden neighborhoods. We sold nothing that day. We somehow dragged ourselves to the Monday rally the following week only to find out the rest of our team was in the same boat. Our esteemed team leader was not happy and held a team meeting after the Big G was done hooting and hollering. In this meeting, she reamed us out for having too few sales for the week. Right after that my mentor finally sold something but they made her give it to me so I could go out on my own. I didn’t do much better on my own. Another 2 weeks went by without my selling anything. Over and over, I was told about a real AIG go-getter who had visited everybody in my area, it seemed; he had been to see every name I was given about a year before me and had sold everybody the Brooklyn Bridge. I questioned why I kept hearing the same story: “Someone from your company was already here,” “We bought last year from agent XXX.” My leader’s answer was to send me out with the barracuda salesman on our team to teach me how to close a deal. At that point, I decided this was not for me and quit. It was such a relief. I hated every minute of working there. Oh yeah, about a week or 2 after I started there, the company decided to give up one of their 2 suites (the one where we made our calls). I asked why they were downsizing the space when they kept adding people. I found out that the Big G was in the middle of a divorce proceeding and his wife was taking him for everything he had so he had to cut down on expenses. Of course, the agents had to suffer. WHAT A PLACE!!!
February 10th, 2011 at 4:55 pm
Sorry all! Anyplace you see AIG in my post above, substitute AIL!!!