My mother made me do it. And I love her for that. She has always been an active member of the Rotary Club International, and when the guest list for events is open, she will try her best to make us part of it. Even before becoming a Sun Life life insurance advisor, I have been exposed to the many philanthropic activities of the Rotary Club. It is also great to see that Sun Life, as one of the top life insurance companies in the Philippines, is also active in giving back to the community.
I admire organizations’ dedication to many causes. That’s why I try my best to join whenever my health and time permits it.
It's not long after joining some End Polio Now activities that allowed me to hone the empathy and soft skills needed to be an effective advisor of life insurance in the Philippines.
The Intersection of Giving and Life Insurance Financial Advisor Roles
In the world of finance, life insurance plays a vital role, providing security and peace of mind to clients. Just as the Rotary Club International dedicates itself to causes like the End Polio Now campaign, life insurance advisors understand the significance of financial protection. Understanding the values and motivations behind giving in charitable activities enhances my role as a financial advisor, specializing in life insurance in the Philippines.
Our company, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), also has a growing foundation that supports educational, environmental, and humanitarian causes. Seen in the pictures below is one of my co-FAs from the Red Sycamore branch's Red Ash Unit, who is one of the active FAs regularly participating in Sun Life's outreach activities. Rayn is one of the FAs who have been with me since Day 1, as we both joined around the same time.
Photo courtesy of Rayn Espinelli. Tree Planting Activity at La Mesa Nature Reserve and support for Kythe Foundation (2023).
Personal Involvement in Charitable Activities
My first time joining an End Polio Now event was in 2017. My mom and brother made it a mini family event, as it was us three who joined from our family. The Rotary Club International's End Polio Now Campaign is a global initiative aimed at eradicating polio. This campaign showcases what can be achieved when we come together to tackle a common goal, much like the collaboration in the life insurance sector in the Philippines.
The latest one I attended was in 2022, which took the form of a running and biking event. Just the same, it was also a mini family event. I was joined by my tita and my boyfriend, as well as his parents. Being present in these events can really mean so much more when you do it with family. The camaraderie, the shared purpose, and the feeling of contributing to a greater cause are amplified when experienced together. It's a testament to how charitable activities not only impact individuals but also foster connections and understanding among loved ones.
Time stamp check! Throwback to one day in 2017 where we left for the venue at 4:49 am!
In my journey as a life insurance advisor, I've encountered individuals and families who have directly benefited from the security provided by life insurance. I've witnessed the relief in their eyes when they realize that they've made a responsible choice to safeguard their family's financial future. Just as the End Polio Now and support for the Kythe Foundation campaign strives to protect children from a devastating disease, life insurance aims to protect families from financial hardships in times of crisis.
2017 and 2022. Same campaign.
Building Empathy Through Giving
Engaging with charitable causes has significantly developed my empathy. Witnessing the struggles and successes of those in need has profoundly influenced my approach to being a financial advisor in the Philippines. It's one thing to understand the importance of life insurance, but it's another to comprehend the real-life challenges and uncertainties people face.
Charitable activities open our eyes to the diverse needs of communities. I've met individuals who are determined to make a difference despite facing obstacles. Their resilience and determination have taught me valuable lessons in empathy and tenacity. These lessons directly translate to my role as a life insurance advisor, where I aim to provide unwavering support and guidance to clients, just as I've seen remarkable individuals support their communities.
The Value of Giving Time and Presence
Joining charitable causes does not always involve giving money. Being an organizer is also a form of giving. Being an attendee at an event can help shed light on the cause. There are many ways to give, and sometimes, giving time and being present is equally, if not more, valuable. Just like in this career where understanding your clients' needs and being present for them is crucial in providing the right support.
In my experience, giving time and presence to clients is as vital as offering the right life insurance solutions. Clients don't just seek financial advice; they look for someone who genuinely understands their aspirations, fears, and dreams. By dedicating time to listen and being fully present during our interactions, I can provide tailored solutions that align with their unique goals.
One key aspect of life insurance is being a policy owner (or even just being insured). When individuals know their loved ones are financially protected as a life insurance beneficiary, they can live their lives with a sense of security. Additionally, life insurance for kids is an important consideration for parents who want to ensure their children's future well-being.
Summarizing the key points discussed in this article, it's evident that engaging in charitable activities has enriched my role as a financial advisor of life insurance in the Philippines.
The main value I've gained from these activities is that when you want to make an impact, one of the first things you can give is TIME and EMPATHY. Being present for the people you serve is invaluable.
In the world of finance, it's not just about managing wealth; it's about understanding the values and aspirations of our clients. Through giving, I've learned the true meaning of empathy, the value of giving time and presence, and the profound impact they can have on our work. I'm glad I made time for it.
I encourage all financial advisors to explore being present and giving time plus effort as a means of improving client relationships. It's not just about selling life insurance; it's about making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.
If you want to know how to be a financial advisor or learn more about life insurance, feel free to send a message to @ChoosingSunrise. Or send an application with "France" as a referral here: bitly.ws/FCHb.
About France Afulugencia
Coach France is a Sun Life Manager Candidate and Macaulay Club member (Sun Life's elite advisors all over the country). A personal finance advocate, she dreams of helping clients achieve their personal goals through habit building. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Santo Tomas and worked as a senior marketing and public relations associate before being a full-time financial advisor.
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