Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Gonzalez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Melissa. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
With almost ten years of experience in the financial industry with a variety of positions held, I was exposed to the reality of financial plans needed by individuals, families, and business owners. Using that experience, we elevate the trajectory of their lives so they can truly leave a legacy.
These individuals have worked to create a fulfilling life. My goal is to enhance the good work they have already done by bridging gaps with my network of relationships. I focus on creating individualized financial planning to positively impact our community in a larger scale; one person and one family at a time. I believe everyone deserves a financial plan, and with a good clear road map, people can reach financial security and spend life living.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has been quite the road. I have enjoyed the many challenges as there is always a learning opportunity that comes with that challenge. It’s hard to start your own business and engage people into a conversation that is often avoided. It’s easy to avoid the topic of “money” and/or “financial planning”. What has helped me is to have a very clear vision of my why and what I am striving to do personally and professionally. Every day I am excited to do what I love doing – make a positive impact in the community through financial planning. My advice to young women is to be clear on your why. Be clear on why you are starting your business. Is your business the catalyst to the live the life that you want to live? For me, it is. Every day I am helping people protect their plan and loved ones and helping them achieve their goals like purchasing a home, or sending the little ones to college, or retiring early. All of my hard work will translate to me being able to continue to provide for my family, to give back to our community through charitable donations, and not have to worry about money. Need help writing Your Why or Your Vision? Happy to help.
My purpose: We believe everyone deserves a financial plan. We exist to positively impact people through the power of financial independence.
My vision: To become a top financial planning firm that serves people and their families to leave a financial legacy for generations to come.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Northwestern Mutual – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I run my own financial planning practice through Northwestern Mutual. We elevate people’s quality of life by improving their relationship with money. We promise to always provide our clients with tools to achieve work-life balance so they can enjoy life with their loved ones.
I integrate insurance planning with investment planning. Many people think that investing is financial planning, and it is not. It is a part of it; however, doesn’t provide financial security/independence. I help my clients be prepared for the worst and plan for the best!
What sets me apart is that I truly care about my clients. I am looking to develop a client/advisor relationship on top of a friendship. My target market are diverse professionals and families. I’m happy to help anyone; however, I know that diverse professionals are often underserved in this field.
I love that I also mentor new advisors. My impact is greater because I help other advisors better serve their clients. It’s a win/win!
It’s amazing to hear feedback from my clients. I am most proud of the impact I have on families:
– “I feel a sense of security”.
– “Thank you for helping us prepare for our home purchase. We wouldn’t have purchased that home without your help”.
– I feel like I have better control of my finances”.
– “Thank you for helping me get out of debt”.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
Financial planning professionals typically do not look like me. I am a Latinx, LGBTQ+, female advisor – not many of me. Nationally, there are not many female leaders in my company. I am proud that Northwestern Mutual is striving and working diligently to make a change here. We have identified this as a large opportunity and we have programs that are elevating the leadership trajectory of female advisors into leaders.
This industry has primarily been led by white males, which typically means they are serving the traditional affluent clientele that may look like them. I do believe females have an advantage. We are great at creating and deepening relationships with our clients.
One thing we have focused is on creating a more diverse and inclusive environment. I have been co-spearheading the Diversity and Inclusion Council for our San Diego offices. It’s been great! We are focusing on recruiting and developing diverse advisors. Female advisors is a big one.
Contact Info:
- Address: 600 W Broadway Ste 600
San Diego, CA 92101 - Website: melissagonzalez.nm.com
- Phone: 619-230-8099
- Email: melissa.gonzalez@nm.com
- Instagram: melissagonzalezffp
- Facebook: facebook.com/MelissaGonzalezFP/
Image Credit:
Photo by Pam Covarrubias or Photo; Pam Covarrubias
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