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Report: #465300

Complaint Review: World Financial Group, Aegon, Transamerica - Brea California

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  • Updated:
  • Reported By: Las Vegas Nebraska
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  • World Financial Group, Aegon, Transamerica 3350 E Birch St., Suite 200 Brea, California U.S.A.

World Financial Group, Aegon, Transamerica IS A SCAM! Brea California

*REBUTTAL Individual responds: To WFGer "Jack:" Your feelings aren't facts

*Consumer Comment: WFG

*REBUTTAL Individual responds: “Aegon backs WFG.” Meaningless at best. Quite possibly wrong.

*Consumer Comment: WFG is Owned By Aegon/NV and Transamerica

*General Comment: Aegon/Transamerica does NOT own WFG

*General Comment: Aegon did NOT buy WFG

*General Comment: TO ALL THE NEGATIVE COMMENTS

*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Yes, Run if you can. By the time the danger becomes apparent, you can't get out.

*UPDATE Employee: employee v. independent contractor

*UPDATE Employee: Honesty, integrity and only highly motivated people can be a WFG agent. Unable to make the cut, do not complain. Bad mouthing others does not make you better.

*Consumer Comment: $100 lie

*General Comment: "He should be fired?" Isn't he self-employed?

*Consumer Comment: World Marketing Alliance renamed World Financial Group

*Consumer Comment: Mistaken Concept

*Consumer Comment: Get your facts straight

*Consumer Comment: That $100 fee

*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Should NOT be charged a FEE for background check

*Consumer Comment: Hi

*General Comment: Seriously????

*General Comment: $100 Start Up Fee

*General Comment: $100 Start Up Fee

*Consumer Comment: Pyramid Schemes

*General Comment: Associates using the "security check" concept are giving WFG a bad name

*Consumer Comment: $100.00 Rip Off!

*Consumer Comment: Very same process, but didn't sign up

*Consumer Suggestion: Yes It Is A RIPOFF!!!!!!!! Aegon

*General Comment: I APOLOGIZE ON BEHALF OF WFG

*Consumer Comment: Not a scam...more like a side hustle (retype).

*Consumer Comment: Not a scam...more like a side hustle.

*Consumer Comment: You Obviously have Never gotten a professional degree of any kind.

*Consumer Comment: A Pig is Pig however you dress it up: WGS, Transamerica Financial Advisors, Cruzaders, etc

*UPDATE Employee: Knowledge is power

*Consumer Comment: follow the money

*Consumer Comment: Glad I did my homework

*Consumer Comment: WFG IS CHANGING MY LIFE

*General Comment: A better way of recruiting good people

*Consumer Suggestion: how much research did you do?

*General Comment: WFG, Brea, Ca Unethical Practices

* : GROW UP

*Consumer Comment: I knew something didn't sound right...

*Consumer Comment: I knew something didn't sound right...

*UPDATE Employee: One bad apple

*Consumer Comment: Forget the J.O.B

*UPDATE Employee: Too bad your husband didn't get to meet a better WFG agent

*Consumer Suggestion: Get off your A$$ and do some work..

Show customers why they should trust your business over your competitors...

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My husband was called by a recruiter indicating that he found his resume on careerbuilder.com. He told him it was for a financial position working with Transamerica. The recruiter asked him if he wanted to make great money providing he had the proper training. My husband said yes. The recruiter didn't answer any of my husbands questions but instead told him to come to the interview and they will answer all questions.

When he got there he said it was 10 other people there for the same interview. A group presentation. The lady at the front made him fill out an application and some other paperwork.

My husband said he was made to meet 4 people claiming to be managers. After that he was put in a small room with other people and had to listen to a presentation regarding 401k, pensions, retirement, life insurance etc. They never dicussed what the "job" was, the pay etc. What they try to do is get you to sign up to sell insurance and other financial products. They also try to get you to sign up your family and friends to sell financial products. My husband said they tell you that you would have to pay 100.00 for your background check. So when they did that he was turned off and started to believe this was a hoax.

When my husband started to ask questions they would beat around the bush and start talking about what they wanted him to hear. He said he wasn't interested and began to walk out.

My husband indicated that many people were walking out pissed off about the "false interview" they just sat through. He also stated that there were a bunch of other folks waiting outside for the next presentation. They do this all day long, every hour.

What this scam of a company is doing is wrong and unethical. Many people are looking for honest jobs right now to get through these hard financial times. To deceive someone like they are doing should be a crime.

It's a shame
Las Vegas, Nebraska
U.S.A.

This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 06/26/2009 01:26 PM and is a permanent record located here: https://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/world-financial-group-aegon-transamerica/brea-california-92821/world-financial-group-aegon-transamerica-is-a-scam-brea-california-465300. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year. Ripoff Report has an exclusive license to this report. It may not be copied without the written permission of Ripoff Report. READ: Foreign websites steal our content

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REBUTTALS & REPLIES:
0Author
43Consumer
2Employee/Owner

#45 REBUTTAL Individual responds

To WFGer "Jack:" Your feelings aren't facts

AUTHOR: William3 - (USA)

POSTED: Saturday, July 16, 2016

Yes Jack. How you feel etc. Please go ahead and parrot your meaningless “helping people” drivel that come straight out of the WFG Playbook. Meanwhile we have overwhelming evidence that WFG is an awful outfit, from the way it is structured that heavily promotes recruiting and thus violate pyramid scheme laws, to selling expensive and very high-risk products like Transamerica’s Financial Foundation Indexed Universal Life (FFIUL) policy that, if you live a reasonably long life, is virtually GUARANTEED to fail, causing you and your heirs to lose the Death Benefit and the hundreds and thousands of dollars you fed into it. Please see the review posted here on 29 June 2016 that gives you all the damning details on the FFIUL.

Jack, bottom line, it’s come down to your “feelings” vs the clear facts I point people to. I’m sure Ripoff Report readers can decide which carry more weight.

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#44 Consumer Comment

WFG

AUTHOR: jack - (USA)

POSTED: Wednesday, July 13, 2016

WFG and Aegon are in the business of helping people, i'm not here to dispute your claim cause you had a bad experiance and you were not  able to make yourself perform. Look money is just a byproduct of who you are. The feeling that you get from helping people is the best feeling ever its priceless. When you show people how money works in this world, most people are skeptikle but if you ask a millionaire if they want to make money they say sign me up. They are not worried about helping people above them cause in the long run they are helping themselves and the people below them

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#43 REBUTTAL Individual responds

“Aegon backs WFG.” Meaningless at best. Quite possibly wrong.

AUTHOR: Real - (USA)

POSTED: Sunday, June 19, 2016

“TiredofStupidPeople” if only your answer were that simple. Nowhere on that link you gave does it actually say “Aegon/Transamerica *owns* WFG. A company, e.g. Aegon/TA, can have a “branding relationship” with another, e.g. WFG without actually owning it.

TOSP, haven’t you ever wondered why you never see the “Part of the Aegon Group” logo, or even “Part of Transamerica” on WFG’s page? You know, that logo you see in the bottom corner of Transamerica’s web pages?

If you call Transamerica Premier (1-800-PYRAMID) and ask about WFG’s affiliation chances are better than even that those reps will tell you WFG’s an independent broker/dealer. Pick up the phone and try it for yourself.

TOSP, even if Aegon/TA did own WFG, they’ve pushed WFG down through so many subsidiary layers, the parent holding companies hold essentially no financial culpability for WFG’s dubious behavior. If indeed Aegon DOES own WFG, it treats WFG like a wild b*stard step-child that Aegon keeps at arm’s length and can dump at the orphanage at any time.

Meanwhile, WFG itself can wash its hands of its agents’ many and persistent dubious and even fradulent actions because these agents are not employees but merely independent contractors for WFG.

TOSP if you care to learn more about WFGers' troubling and misleading claims, please search on these two strings *after* you replace the asterisks with the appropropriate vowels:

“p*issed c*nsumer Aegon/Transamerica DOESN'T own WFG after all?!,” and;  

“p*ssed c*nsumer 10 Lies and Misreps That WFGers tell you,”

to take you to these two reviews from 28 March and 25 May 2016. These explain why WFGers' eager claims that “Aegon backs WFG” are meaningless at best, and quite possibly wrong. When WFG runs into financial, regulatory, and legal troubles, one can’t assume Aegon will step in and bail out this deeply troubled little MLM.

Hope this helps.

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#42 Consumer Comment

WFG is Owned By Aegon/NV and Transamerica

AUTHOR: TiredofStupidPeople - (USA)

POSTED: Friday, May 13, 2016

Aegon does in fact own WFG and Transamerica. follow this link and click on the north american companies. http://www.aegon.com/en/Home/About/Brands--markets/?region=north_america. Even a google search points this out. 

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#41 General Comment

Aegon/Transamerica does NOT own WFG

AUTHOR: WBryanH - (USA)

POSTED: Monday, March 28, 2016

RDavis, just to make clear, Aegon/Transamerica does NOt own WFG. WFG is an independent broker/dealer.

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#40 General Comment

Aegon did NOT buy WFG

AUTHOR: WBryanH - (USA)

POSTED: Monday, March 28, 2016

oxfordbuck, Aegon/Transamerica did NOT buy WFG. WFG is just an independent broker/dealer.  

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#39 General Comment

TO ALL THE NEGATIVE COMMENTS

AUTHOR: oxfordbuck - (USA)

POSTED: Friday, July 17, 2015

I am associated with this company and I have not seen ANY of the negative things listed against them. When you join this company, you are on a team. Every team runs their business their own way unless they are non compliant with law which will result in dismissal and possibly prosecution for wrongdoing. As for fees for licensing, these are required by the state and by the companies you wish to represent. As for background checks, they may be free somewhere but every company has the right to do their background checks with whomever they please, and charge accordingly. With this company you are an independent representative, meaning you are responsible for your own expenses. Some here are complaining of a few hundred dollars to be in business. I had a business where my overhead was $10,000 a month!

More on the team. Every person is part of a team. The leaders of that team sets the tone for how their business operates. Every team is different. One can always choose the team they want to play on; if you don't like your team, join another one. The team I am with is AWESOME. They are also open to how to make the team better; I have contributed greatly to my team, which has contributed to our success. I believe most of the complaints here are due to ignorance of being in business and the expenses associated with it or to being on the wrong team. If you don't like the team, join mine, mywateroflife at gmail. If represented correctly, with the proper background and knowledge of your team leaders, the products and services (and unique financial platform) offered by this company will help people everywhere. Several of my friends have been helped to protect and grow their assets much better than their previous positions with stockbrokers, other planners, etc. Aegon, a half-trillion-dollar company, wouldn't have bought WFG if they didn't have a lot going for them. It's teams like the one I am with that are giving this company TREMENDOUS growth, and will continue on into the future.

If you have complaints, feel free to contact me. With over 30 years in business I believe I am qualified to perhaps give you knowledgeable perspective.

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#38 UPDATE EX-employee responds

Yes, Run if you can. By the time the danger becomes apparent, you can't get out.

AUTHOR: legalease - (USA)

POSTED: Friday, May 22, 2015

 

RUN,.....If you can. By the time that you find out what is lurking underneath, you are already hooked in and it is impossible to get out without losing your shirt. THE BIGGEST PROBLEM ---THE RECRUITERS INTENTIONALLY WITHOLD ALL THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION such as FEES--number of RECRUITS that you need to get--and how LITTLEe commision is there for the new recruits. Most of the commissions were going to the UPLINE and WFG. YOU CAN'T RESIGN BECAUSE IT WILL COST YOU AND THEY WANT YOU TO STAY IDLE FOR 6 MONTHS WHILE CHARGING YOU WITH MONTHLY E&O.

ALSO, THEY WILL NOT LET YOU WORK ANYWHERE FOR SIX MONTHS. IF YOU RESIGN, THEY THREATEND NOT TO COVER YOUR ACTIVITIES WHILE YOU WERE SELLING THEIR POLICIES ---EVEN IF THEY HAVE BEEN DEDUCTING A MONTHLY E&O TO INSURE YOUR ACTIVITIES AS AN AGENT.

WFG AND ITS SO CALLED UP LINES ARE A SCAM AND THEY USED THE NEW RECRUITS TO MAINTAIN THEIR MONTHLY INCOME.  FOR ALL THE VICTIMES OUT THERE....LET US ALL GET TOGETHER AND FILE A COMPLAIN AGAINST THIS COMPANY. THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE WILL BE THE RIGHT PLACE TO START.

THEY PROMISED TO TRAIN THE NEW RECRUITS, BUT HOW CAN THEY TRAIN IF THEY THEMSELVES DO NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE TO BE AN ETHICAL AGENT. THEY PUSHED FOR THE MOST EXPENSIVE POLICY TO GET A BIGGER COMMISION KNOWING THAT THERE ARE BETTER POLICIES THAT ARE LESS EXPENSIVE AND BETTER PROTECTION.

THEIR IDEA OF TRAINING IS FIND A CLIENT AND WE WILL RIGHT THE POLICY FOR YOU. THEY WILL GET 50% OF YOUR 25% COMMISSION IN ADDITION WITH THEIR ALREADY ESTABLISHED CUTS FROM YOUR 25% COMMISSION. 

BY THE WAY, THEY DO NOT TELL YOU THAT YOU ARE ONLY GETTING 25% OUT OF OVER 100% POSSIBLE COMISSION UNTIL YOU ARE ALREADY IN. THEY WILL MAKE THE SPEECHES OF 80% PLUS DOWN LINES --GIVING YOU 100%.

tHEY DO NOT TELL YOU THAT ONLY THEM---THE UP LINE--GET THIS 80% UP TO 100%. WHILE THE NEW RECRUITS GET 25% OR LESS AND FEES THAT WFG CHARGES. THEY ALSO CHARGE FOR MATERIALS.

 

I AM NOT SAYING THAT THEY ARE ALL THE SAME, BUT THE ONE THAT RECRUITEED ME IS!!! UNETHICAL PEOPLE, SCAMMERS AND NO SHAME.

BUYERS BEWARE. AVOID THESE PEOPLE LIKE A PLAQUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

t

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#37 UPDATE Employee

employee v. independent contractor

AUTHOR: legalease - (USA)

POSTED: Thursday, April 16, 2015

Both you and Neal are incorrect. There are two types  of relationship which a lot of people called employer and employee relationship. Employee is when you are hired by than company to work under their management, while independent contractor in an outside independent person doing the job under agency relationship. You ccan be considered an employee in a certain circumstances, even if you are not hired by the company to work for them, if you take order from that company for their benifit. Meaning, you are doing something based on their instruction and not your free ordinary judgment.

WFG agents are not employee of AEGON or Transamerica. Agents of WFG are all independent contractor working under agency relationship. WFG is a Brokerage Company associated with Aegon and Transamerica.

FIRE? YES, the agent can be fired or disassociated for criminal or fraud. Again, your information is a lacking of substance just like your comment.

PEACE TO ALL. LEAVE WFG ALONE. LET THEM EARN THEIR HONEST LIVING. SALES IS A UNIQUE JOB DISCRIPTION AND

PERSUASION IS A MUST!!! 

 

 

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#36 UPDATE Employee

Honesty, integrity and only highly motivated people can be a WFG agent. Unable to make the cut, do not complain. Bad mouthing others does not make you better.

AUTHOR: legalease - (USA)

POSTED: Thursday, April 16, 2015

The $100.00 fee is for Franchise fee. Yes, WFG conduct a background check limited to your credit report to make sure that you are a person of integrity and responsibility. It means that you know how to handle your finances first, before they will trust you with other people's money.

If you were smart enough and passed the California Insurance Test, after taking the examination, the person administering the test will make sure that you are a person of good morale. You must pass the character and criminal background check before they will let you near in the industry.

Many people like you are looking for an easy money or a handout. Insurance and finance industry are legitimate entity more than what you can imagine. Like any other job, you have to work hard to get the most of it. If you think that the people are not legitimate, get out. In fact, run because WFG does not need a person who write such a demeaning comment, in public without knowing what WFG all about. Most WFG agents are highly educated, professional and hardworking people. There is no place for people who are looking for an easy way out. Money do not just land on your lap without hard work and proper knowledge of your product.

If that is what you are, then, run and find a job that will entertain your qualification. Be open-minded. No one force you to join. Financial and Insurance job is not for the weak. You must be a business minded and have an open mind, and able to separate the facts from sales talk.

 Most of all, integrity, respect, and a go get 'em attitude is a must. If you are a mediocre and less than motivated, run away becuase this world is not for you!!!

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#35 Consumer Comment

$100 lie

AUTHOR: TruthFinder - ()

POSTED: Wednesday, February 04, 2015

A BACKGROUND CHECK IS FREE on any FDLE or Resident County Sheriff Office web site. So $100 towards that is a lie.

DATA bases ARE FREE. The softwear they use was paid for and established long ago, and it runs itself. All the employee does is the data entry or reviewing previous data entry, and that COST NOTHING by time and the tips of his/her fingers moving on a keyboard.

AND SELLING INSURANCE PER COLD CALL or OLD REGURGITATED LEADS is a waste of time by the company and employee, because people don't want your high priced scam.

You suck employee's out of $100 dollars everyday because there is a sucker born everyday.  You hire and fire everyday, and people quite A LOT because the job leads no where and is scam.

Your company will go under eventually, and people like you peddling lies do have to answer to God eventually.

 

 

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#34 General Comment

"He should be fired?" Isn't he self-employed?

AUTHOR: RDavis - ()

POSTED: Tuesday, July 08, 2014

In the replies below, NEALCABANOS stated, "... In other words, you don't work for anyone. You work for you. "  Then turned and stated, "It's the screw-head that tried to recruit your husband. One last tid-bit. ... This guy should be fired."

How can you fire someone if they are working for themselves?  If someone can fire me, then I am in reality working for them.  Right?

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#33 Consumer Comment

World Marketing Alliance renamed World Financial Group

AUTHOR: RDavis - ()

POSTED: Tuesday, July 08, 2014

Much of this stuff written may be true and the WFG reps should not be defensive.  For example, 

In November 1998, WMA was fined $100,000 "for not properly supervising its sales agents" after their clients lost nearly $2 million in unregistered investments. In 2000, WMA was fined $125,000 "for failing to report nearly 900 customer complaints".

In June 2001, select assets of WMA were purchased by AEGON and renamed World Financial Group, Inc.. Alexander Wynaendts, chief executive of AEGON, was quoted as saying, "When we took the company over, we put in place very strict regulatory and compliance procedures".


So, there were issues and may still be issues that are a carry over from pre-Aegon acquisition.  It's the insurance and financial business. There are going to be some issues and devious characters.  There is no way ALL WFG members are 'angels'.  

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#32 Consumer Comment

Mistaken Concept

AUTHOR: Steven - ()

POSTED: Monday, April 21, 2014

It amazes me when I read all of these comments about the $100 fee charged by World Financial Group to join their organization. It is a one time fee which is used, inter alia, to sign the person up, get them coded in the system and get the discounts and support associated with the company. I have been in many businesses in the past. I have owned my own business, bought out of the box businesses, and even worked with franchises but never have I seen a place where you can get all the wupport you get from the WFG home office, website and local people for $100.

Let's get this straight ... it is NOT a job, it is an OPPORTUNITY. If you are a focused individual who is coachable, willing to work hard, can take no for an answer and move on, and continually work to better yourself than you will probably succeed at this opportunity. If you are a whiner, expect it to be handed to you on a silver platter, think you can work for six months and the gravy train will keep flowing, or think you deserve to be successful because of your past accomplishments, you WILL fail.

If you are interested in the financial success of the average American consumer and are willing to be straight forward, gather the right information and are ethical there is an OPPORTUNITY for you to help other people and at the same time be successful yourself. Yes, some of the questions you need to ask are personal, and/or financially related but how else are you going to be able to help guide your client ahead?

For $100, whether you call it a background check, a setup fee, an administrative fee or the cost of getting into an opportunity, you will never get a better opportunity to become a self-made person. The person who collects the fee does not get one thin dime of the $100. One of the largest broker/dealer networks in the world does not need your $100 to build its bottom line but does need it to be sure the infrastructure is set up for YOUR growth, use and education.

Stop whinning about small cost and admit that you do not have what it takes to be a truly self-employed person who owns their own business, not who has a business that owns them. If you cannot handle the fee, and the state licensing requirements the opportunity is not for you but for MANY it has been very successful, has built self-confidence in a lot of peole and is helping many Americans become financially independent. Let's here it for the successful.

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#31 Consumer Comment

Get your facts straight

AUTHOR: Tio - ()

POSTED: Tuesday, April 01, 2014

You abviously do not know what you are talking about.  I have been a client of WFG for over 10 years.  Just because they pay an agent 50% or even 100% commission based on what you put into your insurance contract in the first year does not mean that you have no money working for you.  Insurance companies have enough money to advance a comission because they know that they will make up for that comission over the long term.  Don't try to blame it on the insurance company just because you wouldn't live up to your end of the contract. 

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#30 Consumer Comment

That $100 fee

AUTHOR: agent25 - ()

POSTED: Thursday, March 27, 2014

In my 24 years as an independent agent, I was never charged a fee for a background check! I do pay for errors and Omissions insurance and renewing my State appointed licenses. I have been targeted and marketed  by WFG and I politely accomodate their sales pitch of opportunities to be succesful. Unfortunately, I never got the chance to let them know that I am already independently self sufficient.

Also, when you bypass WFG and deal directly with the Insurance companies they represent, You get a better and more lucrative commission structure due to the fact that you are not part of a multi level marketing structure. The only caviat is that you need to be self motivated and not worry about being part of a group.

AND when you go directly with the Insurance companies WFG represent, they will NOT ask you for a $100 backgroung check fee!

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#29 UPDATE EX-employee responds

Should NOT be charged a FEE for background check

AUTHOR: George Johnson - ()

POSTED: Wednesday, February 12, 2014

First of all it is indeed SAD and Pathetic this man had to undergo a sorry and lame excuse of an interview when in fact it was nothing but an opportunity AND should have been fully disclosed as such. A legitimate insurance agency / group would NEVER make an agent pay to join or pay for a background or to get appointed with any carrier. Whenever you sign up to be with a carrier i is them who conducts a background on their own dime NEVER the agent's dime!!!! Anyone claiming this is needed is lying to you! It's unfortunate this gentleman encountered a bunch of rookie, lousy, crummy agents who have NO real experience helping people with financial planning. I will say that it's sad this is standard practice for World Financial Group, it is NOT a true representation of the insurance carrier themselves "Transamerica" Transamerica is merely one of the carriers many agency groups use. Transamerica is a solid and wonderful insurance carrier. So please do not think Transamerica is responsible for World Financial Groups pack of idiot vampires looking to suck people in by NOT telling them the truth that it's an opportunity.

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#28 Consumer Comment

Hi

AUTHOR: ladama - ()

POSTED: Sunday, February 09, 2014

My boyfriend and I met already twice which an employee,Rabecca,with this company (las vegas) and I feel like such an idiot because the second "interview" was at our house and she asked about what bank we have, our accounts, our birthdays, all our childrens birthdays and we reluctantly gave her the info. no ssn or account numbers but what can she do with all that info??? She does need that $100 and about $405 more for him to get started but i wont pay..... Are we ok or can she do something with our info??

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#27 General Comment

Seriously????

AUTHOR: Seriously - ()

POSTED: Tuesday, November 19, 2013

You must be a little confused.  Major corporations are not trying to get a relatively few people to pay for a background check at $100 to rip them off.  If you were unsure all you needed to do is decline.  I'm a little suspicious of your motives???   Or even your ability to think rationally.  Nobody tries to ripoff a $100.  

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#26 General Comment

$100 Start Up Fee

AUTHOR: - ()

POSTED: Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Everyone has their $.02 of negativity to comment about!

The $100 goes to part of your background check. The majority of it is a startup fee to get your backpage on the WFG website so you can log in and keep track of your activities, points, commission statements, team, reports, list of products, free training, webinars, etc.

And most importantly, the $100 gets you an agent code so you can get appointed with all of the Providers so that you get paid. Without your agent code the providers have no way to pay you. That agent code is yours for life and you can take it to any other company or brokerage so that the providers will have a way to pay you.

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#25 General Comment

$100 Start Up Fee

AUTHOR: - ()

POSTED: Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Everyone has their $.02 of negativity to comment about!

The $100 goes to part of your background check. The majority of it is a startup fee to get your backpage on the WFG website so you can log in and keep track of your activities, points, commission statements, team, reports, list of products, free training, webinars, etc. And most importantly, the $100 gets you an agent code so you can get appointed with all of the Providers so that you get paid. Without your agent code the providers have no way to pay you. That agent code is yours for life and you can take it to any other company or brokerage so that the providers will have a way to pay you.

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#24 Consumer Comment

Pyramid Schemes

AUTHOR: Jenny - ()

POSTED: Friday, March 22, 2013

First of all these calls are never "job" offers - what they want is for you to become an "independent contractor" or "business owner" but only after you give them some sort of "fee". People here have said that the people who are opposed to these scams "don't want to work" The truth is they just don't want to work with companies who misrepresent themselves. First thing these companies want (after money from you) is for you to sell to your friends and family. You will be expected to pay for your own marketing efforts - or pay them to market for you. You will be expected to use your own resources and find your own clients. The one thing they will teach you is how to use avoidance techniques to mislead people. Anybody can start one of these businesses - they don't need to be part of a multi-level scam - it can be a legitimate business - however none of the companies mentioned here are.

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#23 General Comment

Associates using the "security check" concept are giving WFG a bad name

AUTHOR: Tony V in So. Cal. - (United States of America)

POSTED: Thursday, November 01, 2012

In truth, the $100 works as a franchise fee.  No, we don't get a "slice" of the $100.  Wouldn't that be a kick in the pants.  "Woo h*o.  I made $15 today!!!"

At the heart of our business is a state required license.  In California, the mandatory 52-hour study course costs on average $99.  With an affiliation with WFG, associates are given a 40% discount.  Up until October 15th, it was a $74 discount.  Some states only require a 40-hour course.  Some states don't require any mandatory training, at all.  Just pass the test with the knowledge you brought to the table.  Good luck.

When an associate passes the required minimum licensing test (state administered), there are still Continuing Education courses that must be taken and passed (kinda sounds like a legitimate business, after all).  With an affiliation with WFG, a number of coursework providers give sizeable discounts to associates.  It is a volume discount.

That $100 initial investment into your career is well worth the 25 or so vente lattes you might have spent it on.  Interested in a bigger and better franchise? Skip the penny ante $100 for a career in financial services.  Go buy a McDonald's and pony up an extensive amount of unborrowed personal funds.  From their website, "Since the total cost varies from restaurant to restaurant, the minimum amount for a down payment will vary. Generally, we require a minimum of $750,000 of non-borrowed personal resources to consider you for a franchise. Individuals with additional funds may be better prepared for additional or multi-restaurant opportunities."

Do you think that maybe someone is slicing off a piece of that action? To paraphrase my earlier comment, "Woo h*o.  I made $15,000 today!!!" Our company isn't for everyone.  If you choose not to affiliate yourselves with us, thanks for the two hours of your time.

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#22 Consumer Comment

$100.00 Rip Off!

AUTHOR: Cody - (United States of America)

POSTED: Thursday, November 01, 2012

A background check at FINRA is free! Anyone who has been employed or an Independent Contractor within the Securities/Insurance Industry can be scrutinized going back thirty years. Even if he/she was charged with a crime although not convicted. Customer Complaints, lawsuits etc., All for free. A consumer report will list criminal/civil records for about eight bucks. How does Aegon account for that $100.00 ? The solicitors that call you get a slice of it etc.,

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#21 Consumer Comment

Very same process, but didn't sign up

AUTHOR: JetFalcon - (United States of America)

POSTED: Wednesday, October 31, 2012

ell, the person who wanted to recruit put his ad on Craigslist on the finance job section.  I responded to it and I get an email to come in thinking this is a real job.  The office in Irvine CA was nice, so thought this had to be a reputable company.  So he does the typical job interview, and then a red flag came up when he starts asking how much I want to make and talks about how I can make a million dollars, which is where I start thinking he's selling a dream rather than offering a paying job.  I've been to something similar when some kid during my high school years tried to recruit me by attending one of those overhyped seminars and after pay $500 for initation where I sat in a conference room listening to someone talk about how we will get rich selling phone services.  That kid was expelled from my high school for stabbing someone with a pencil so college probably was not an option for him. 

The guy wanted me to pay the $100 background check which I declined, but he still wanted to work with me and he invited me to a second interview, but really was just that pep rally seminar.  In the text message, he said "can't wait to do business future business partner" at an attempt to make me feel excited or important.   That seminar was really pointless and I do not see how any potential clients will want to buy insurance off someone who just wants to be rich and their own boss.  They never taught us how the insurance works but spent that time having motivational speakers talk about their success, but not how these products work or why customers are buying them?

One of the speakers talked about owning an S-Class like if that was the highlight of his career and nothing about selling the insurance.  And he says something about if you were not loaded and went to the Mercedes dealer and wanted to look at the S-class, the sales person will direct you to the C class as some kind of mean joke.  What kind of customer would want to buy insurance off some guy whose life revolves around his Mercedes S Class?  Pretty much this speaker spent more time talking about his life story and how he got successful and nothing about how the products benefit the customers and why they want to buy them.  

Whenever I ask about job descriptions, the guy said, "that will all be discussed when you sign up and will guide me how to be successful"  Well does not answer my question and just a polite way to say you got something to hide because you can't disclose it before you get the payment.  But at least rip off report have people who started out in my exact position and disclose what will really happen when you pay the fees and get your license. 

I feel Aegon knows that reports like these exist so they do everything they can to make the original poster look like a disgrunted worker who did not want to put in the work.  I kindly told the rcruiter I researched what it takes to be an insurance agent working on commission and said this is not right for me and I would be more comfortable with a salary position.  And then mocks them they don't have a business mind set, which is what my recruiter last text message pretty much was.  I kept negotiating for asssy position, but he gave up when he realized he was not getting that $100 fee out of me. 

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#20 Consumer Suggestion

Yes It Is A RIPOFF!!!!!!!! Aegon

AUTHOR: Cody - (United States of America)

POSTED: Friday, October 19, 2012

Yes it does take a certain type of individual to become a Financial Advisor. It takes a certain type of individual to become a hockey player in the NHL! Those scammers at Aegon in Woodland Hills, Brea, Pomona etc., know that too! They also know that 85% of trainees fail within the first year.
But they get each one for that $100.00 background fee. Levi Strauss knew that each pan handler in Northern California needed a pair of durable pants. And he also knew most of those pan handlers would come up empty. I was there in Pomona he asked for VISA not cash. Why? because they are some stories about unauthorized transactions after Aegon had grasp of it.
I would not fork it over and he became arrogant and insulting. That's when I knew it was a numbers game and that $100.00 and authorization is what they were really after.
Transamerica/Aegon has some sound investment instruments (Annuities/Mutual Funds). But they are not ethical as long as they are involved with telemarketing scammers.

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#19 General Comment

I APOLOGIZE ON BEHALF OF WFG

AUTHOR: NEALCABANOS - (United States of America)

POSTED: Tuesday, September 25, 2012

I agree with the rebuttals above. Your husband met the wrong agent. We have scripts that invite people to our meetings and they (paraphrased) go something as follows:

Are you busy this weekend? No? Great, I started this new business recently and I'm really excited about it. I'm really happy about this and I just want to share with you what I do. We're having a corporate overview to explain to you what we're doing and I would really like for you to come. Does that sound good? Perfect, it's at ____________. I'll see you then.

If the person comes and signs on, then yeah, they do the interview afterwards. If the person who invited your husband didn't do this, then he/she screwed up and shouldn't be in the business. The $100.00 is for your background check and information. Best $100 I ever spent.

The hundred dollars is an investment in YOUR OWN BUSINESS. In other words, you don't work for anyone. You work for you. Think of the franchise model. If a McDonald's screws up your order, do you stop going to McDonald's altogether? Probably not. Same thing here. The problem isn't in the company, it's the agents. As an agent, I think this recruiter should be terminated.

Also, we're highly regulated. State and federal license. They just about everything about you. They make you fill out a background check and everything. Again, it's not the company's fault. It's the screw-head that tried to recruit your husband. One last tid-bit. We don't check careerbuilder.com for new agents. We talk to the people closest to us. This guy should be fired.

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#18 Consumer Comment

Not a scam...more like a side hustle (retype).

AUTHOR: jon1382us - (United States of America)

POSTED: Saturday, April 28, 2012

I just came from interviewing with World Financial Group in Diamond Bar, CA.  Apparently the've opened a new office in Diamond Bar.  Around 7pm Friday evening/night I received a call from a lady named Jasmine stating she found my resume on Monster.  When I questioned about the company Jasmine gave me a long rundown of things from marketing to finance.  When I asked about their company website Jasmine claimed that their website had not been approved due to a company merger.  Right then I  knew this was a hustle company. (I've been offered positions from several companies involved in either finance or sales).  She scheduled me to come in Saturday morning for a "interview".  How many companies have interviews on Saturdays?? Not too many that I know of...could be wrong. 

I drove to Diamond Bar, which was an approximately 15 minute drive.  When I enter suite 201 on the 2nd floor I hear LMFAO's "Party Rock" blasting in the stereo system.  I immediately said to myself "so this is one of 'those' companies".  I signed in and get escorted into this big room where I talk with numerous people.  I'm constantly repeating myself about my career and what I like to do for "fun". I'm already disappointed because being a business major I was expecting a more professional setting..even for a hustle company.  Then we, the recruits, are escorted to Howard Qu's office for his little pep talk.  He gives us a power point presentation about his company his many accomplishments--plaques, trophies, etc.   He even stated he could care less if we joined with the company or not and that he was doing us a favor by talking to us.  Of course there was the $100 fee that didn't bother me one bit. I've blown a $100 at the club in Hollywood so paying a $100 fee wasn't a big deal to me.  There was this one guy so motivated by Howard Qu, but couldn't afford to pay the $100.  In the back of my head I'm thinking maybe the so-called rich managers could spot him a $100.  Qu stated that the company refunds $300 upon passing the test. 

There were several things that threw me off from the company. One, the fact that they said they didn't care whether we joined them or not as well as the fact that our resumes didn't matter.  If my resume didn't matter then why have me waste ink printing it out? To me that was very unprofessional and a slap in the face.  Two, the so-called "manager" wouldn't answer questions directly.  The ladies in office where our interviews were being conducted asked a simple question: "what are will be my duties if I decide to work here?" The manager went on and on about a whole bunch of nothing. Finally, my one on one interviewer was the ice breaker.  I've always been taught to do research on a company before accepting a job offer.  I didn't want to sign on with them that right then without doing my research. Besides, I had finals and graduation approaching next month and the last thing I need is to be conducting seven days worth of training.  The female manager, who was sexy btw (nice booty *had to get that out there*), told me that if I didn't sign on today I wouldn't sign on next month.  She went on how I needed to change my life. I told her school was my first priority, and she just stared at me as if to say that WFG was more important. 

To conclude...
Is this company a scam?  I don't think so. Howard Qu seems to be real-he's on twitter, youtube, and facebook.  This is a company to join if you want to make money on the side of your current job.  They have a bunch of technical terms for it in the corporate/business world, but on the street/every day terminology it's simply known as a side hustle. I think there are better side hustles out there that are more professional. I'm currently looking to sell health insurance at insphere insurance solutions which seems to be more professional.  All my fees were waived and I received a copy of my background check in the mail. I'm looking to start/continue a career...not just a side hustle. Sign up World Financial Group at your own risk. May the odds be ever in your favor.

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#17 Consumer Comment

Not a scam...more like a side hustle.

AUTHOR: jon1382us - (United States of America)

POSTED: Saturday, April 28, 2012

I just came from interviewing with World Financial Group in Diamond Bar, CA.  Apparently they opened a new office in Diamond Bar.  Around 7pm Friday Evening/night I received a call from a lady named Jasmine saying she found my resume on Monster and that I had a strong resume.  When I asked about the company she gave me a rundown of things from marketing to finance.  When I asked about their company website Jasmine claimed that their website had not been approved because it was a merging company.  Right then I already knew this was a hustle company. (I've been offered positions from several companies involved in either finance or sales).  She scheduled me to come in Saturday morning for a "interview".  How many companies have interviews on Saturdays?? Not too many that I know of...could be wrong. 

I drive to Diamond Bar which was an approximately 15 minute drive.  I go to the 2nd floor in suite 201 and soon as I enter the room I hear LMFAO's "Party Rock" blasting in the stereo system.  I immediately said to myself "so this is one of 'those' companies". I sign in, get escorted into this big room where I talk with numerous people repeating myself about my career and what I like to do for "fun". I'm already disappointed because I'm a business major in college and I'm expecting a professional setting..even for a hustle company.  Then we, the recruits, are escorted to Howard Qu's office for his little pep talk.  He gives us a power point presentation about his company and about how many accomplishments he's had showing us his plaques and trophies.   He even stated he could care less if we joined with the company or not.  Of course there was the $100 fee which didn't bother me one bit. I've blown a $100 at the club in Hollywood so to pay a $100 fee wasn't a big deal to me.  But, there was this one guy that was so motivated by Howard Qu, but he couldn't afford to pay the $100.  In the back of my head i'm thinking maybe these so-called rich managers could spot him a $100 so he can get trained and pass his test.  They said that if the company refunds $300 upon passing the test. 

There were several things that threw me off from the company. One, the fact that they said they didn't care whether we joined them or not as well as the fact that our resumes didn't matter.  To me that was very unprofessional and two that's a slap in the face.  Two, the so-called "manager" wouldn't answer questions directly.  The ladies in office where our interviews were being conducted asked a simple question: "what are will be my duties if I decide to work here?" The manager went on and on about a whole bunch of nothing. Finally, my one on one interviewer.  I've always been taught to do research on a company before accepting a job offer.  I didn't want to sign on with them that instant. Especially with finals and graduation approaching next month.  Last thing I need is to be conducting seven days worth of training.  The female manager, who was sexy btw (nice nice booty *had to get that out there*), told me that if I didn't sign on today I wouldn't sign on next month.  She went on how I needed to change my life. I told her school was my first priority, and she just stared at me.  

To conclude...
Is this company a scam?  I don't think so. Howard Qu seems to be real.  This is a company to join if you want to make money on the side of your current job.  They have a bunch of technical terms for it in the corporate/business world, but on the street level it's simply a side hustle. I think there are better side hustles out there that are more professional. I'm currently looking to sell health insurance at insphere insurance solutions which seems to be better ran. My long term goals is to have a stable career...not just a side hustle. Sign up World Financial Group at your own risk. May the odds be ever in your favor. 

 

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#16 Consumer Comment

You Obviously have Never gotten a professional degree of any kind.

AUTHOR: Dawn - (United States of America)

POSTED: Wednesday, April 18, 2012

I was in Grad school going after an MSEE (masters in Electrical Engineering), also working in the industry as an EE. when I realized that most of the students in my classes have NO clue how things work in the real world. The professional designations you speak of only tell people that you can retain information for a certain amount of time and able to take a test. It does not tell people what kind of professional you truly are. I hate to point out the obvious, but I have had more success with people who have done their own research and got to where they are on their own than anyone who was taught and paid a salary. 
Just as not all people are created equal, not all financial advisers are created equal depending on what kind of education they were exposed to. A good financial advisory will teach you as WFG does for us, not TELL you what to do like the others. the 'professional designation' you speak of are a waste of paper and waste of time! WFG is a good company, and as in any company that is multi level, it will always have people commenting on things they Choose not to understand.

Dawn

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#15 Consumer Comment

A Pig is Pig however you dress it up: WGS, Transamerica Financial Advisors, Cruzaders, etc

AUTHOR: T.T - (United States of America)

POSTED: Friday, March 09, 2012

I am too so sick of these guys...a pig is a pig however you dress it up. WFG, Transamerica TFA, Cruzaders and all these names they used to pretend like they are a real financial services company is just annoying! They are a recruiting, MLM and network marketing company...just tell people, don't' try these bait and switch tactics, it's insulting!!!! If you want to work with real professional, work with advisors with professional designations, like CLU, ChFC, CFA, CFP, etc. Yes, do your homework, being a financial advisor is a serious professional responsibility. 

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#14 UPDATE Employee

Knowledge is power

AUTHOR: Tony V in So. Cal. - (United States of America)

POSTED: Friday, November 11, 2011

Someone commented with a question along the lines of, "How could a company that takes 65% of what the consumer pays to them and gives it to its associates stay in business?"  This person does not understand how the financial industry works.

When you pay for car insurance, homeowner's insurance, medical insurance, etc., you don't pay for the first year and then stop paying and expect to continue to be covered.  Agents that find consumers / customers that are interested in insurance are paid handsomely out of the first year's premiums (the complainer stated 65%, so let's go with that).  Not just with WFG, with all insurance carriers.  If (and hopefully when) the consumer renews the contract in the second year, they continue to pay their premiums.  I will guarantee you that the agent that wrote the policy is not getting 65% in year two.  Let's picture less than 5%.  That's when the financial corporations (insurance companies) make their assets for investment).

If you are interested in GREAT financial training without having to pay for a degree in finance, then WFG is a resource well worth your time and effort.  Yes, the "franchise fee" is $100.  Go to a weekend seminar on finance and try to pay less than $1,000.  The seminar will not be training you to work in the finance industry.  They will be priming you to be a client.  Now that's a great deal.

If you are of a nature to complain about an opportunity that costs $100, I'm sure that the WFG office that was going to give you a chance to succeed will benefit from not having to associate with you.

For the rest of you that are willing to open your eyes and take the opportunity to learn a new skill in a market whose time has come, we welcome you.

Good luck, either way.

And just to make it clear, WFG is not JUST about insurance.  That is the tip of the iceberg.  But your career starts with an industry that is regulated by state insurance boards, the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission), FINRA and a few other state and federal authorities.  Believe me when I tell you that IF this were a scam, the government would have shut WFG down ten years ago.

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#13 Consumer Comment

follow the money

AUTHOR: heinekenstar - (United States of America)

POSTED: Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Well WFG says they are helping families,to save money for secure futures.How can they do this when 65% of the money their clients pay in goes to the sales assosiate in the form of a comision?

I don't know of any finacial vehicle where the 35% of the money that is left over can yeild anything near what 100% or even 85% of that same money would at even the lowest return rate.

So i'm left to conclude that the money isn't there at all. They must use the new client premiums to pay any existing accounts off that havereached maturity.

If you know some magical way to thow 65% of your money in somebodys hand and make the rest of it worth more than what you started with,tell me how,because only banks can create money out of thin air as far as i know.We all know the banks don't even have close to 1/2 the deposited funds at any time,ever. that's why if we all tried to withdrawl our money,we'd be left out in the cold.

WFG will one day run into this and file BK,or sell itself to another conglomerate or something of the like.So a few top execs. go to prison for 5 years,small price to pay for Billions of dollars they'll have in the Caymen Islands acct. waiting when they get out.

just my oppinion,

heinekenstar,Riverside CA

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#12 Consumer Comment

Glad I did my homework

AUTHOR: Kerry - (United States of America)

POSTED: Thursday, June 10, 2010

I was contacted by this company Tuesday 6/8/2010 by a Mr. Scott Eaton who said he saw my resume on Yahoo hot jobs. He said he wanted me to come in for an interview for a Supervisor position available and that there would be no sales involved. I have an appointment scheduled at their Brea office this Friday 6/11/2010.


However, after reviewing all the information on this site I'm unsure what to do. Starting a career with a company that is dishonest with you from the initial phone call is very discourgaing.    

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#11 Consumer Comment

WFG IS CHANGING MY LIFE

AUTHOR: me11ss - (United States of America)

POSTED: Tuesday, February 09, 2010
I just want to let you know that as of this past FRiday, having a WFG assoiciate show me how they could help me with my finances, I am now on my way to having my money work for ME!

I am from NB, Canada, WFG uses several Canadian banks and the banks services [NOT anything WFG offers] and many other reputable companies to help families everywhere. WFG is a brokerage company, and doesn't have any products or services of their own.

I was so impressed with my finances, I am now an associate-in-training. As for the people I work with, we do not twist anyone's arms to work with us, but we want everyone to take advantage of the services and transform their finances and potentially their lives.

Anyone who has offered you a 'job' or a 'position' has done you a great disservice. This is not for everyone, but once you see it, you will know whether or not you want to work to help your family, friends and others to manage their debt and build for their future.

Anyone who told you about interviews were misleading you. They are called 'overviews', presentations about the company and how lives and families can potentially be changed forever by getting their finances on the right track.

The reason for the overviews and the multiple attendants is because it is more time-effective to present it to as many people as possible at a time. There are so many people to be helped...

The overview is meant to be a non-obligitory look at what we are all about. If it's not for you, thanks for your time and see you later. If it is for you, with hard work, perseverence and patience, it can be very rewarding to yourself and the people you help.

I wish you could have met the guy who showed me...your story would be a different one...
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#10 General Comment

A better way of recruiting good people

AUTHOR: Jack - (United States of America)

POSTED: Thursday, January 14, 2010

I'm glad I found these comments about WFG before traveling for an interview tomorrow. I would think a company as large as WFG would have a better system in place to draw the right people for their company.

In talking with the WFG representative, I was very specific in explaining what I was looking for in my next job. I asked him if this was a selling position and he reply, "well you have a strong sales backgound."

I told him I wanted to get our of sales and was specifically seeking an Industrial Management position and wasn't interested in field or outside sales.

He immediately changed his delivery by telling me "this is not a sales position" and he has a management position available for me as a Trainer and that I would not have to sell, rather I would teach people how to sell. In addition, He actually asked me if the "Salary" they were going to offer me was high enough, would I be willing to consider a career change? I immediately said "Yes."

When I asked for some specifics about the opportunity, none were offered. I asked if he could email me a job description, because most companies & recruiters will. I was told to just come in, bring my resume and he'd explain it all to me when I got there. I also asked who I would be interviewing with and should I ask for him specifically? He again told me to just come and it would all be explained when I got there. The Red Flags went up.

The conversation left me with a "not so sure" feeling. So, I did some research and found this blog. Reading the comments on here confirmed my suspicions. 

Would I say they are unetical? No, it is simply the way they choose to conduct business. It's a selling technique. A poor one, but one none the less. Unfortunately it creates a questionable situation and doubt. Before reading these posts, I was seriously thinking about not attending the interview, and now I am certainly not.

The bottom line is: If you come across another company who says "we want to offer you a job", which they did to me, before an actual interview is conducted and is not willing to take the time over the phone to answer your questions, then more than likely it is a similar situation as this.

It's not about getting off your A$$ as some stated on here. It's about being up front and not taking advantage of people who desperately need a job. A job they feel qualified to do & comfortable doing! They just might have better luck finding the right people who are interested in doing this type of work. In their defense, I went to their website and they are a legit company. There is a certain culture within this organization, but it is not a perfect fit for many. They need to do a better job of determining that when they talk to you over the phone. But, then again, when you're trying to sell, face to face is the most effective method.  

It's just not the way I would recruit people.       

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#9 General Comment

WFG, Brea, Ca Unethical Practices

AUTHOR: Alustig - (USA)

POSTED: Saturday, October 03, 2009

Call this company a scam, MLM, or rip-off if you may, but I call it a company that is unethical in its business practices, as they lure in prospective recruits.

I was contacted by a Mr. Walter Peters(Who is high up on the food chain of WFG)who offerd me a position as a trainer with WFG. He expressed to me that he got my resume off of monster and was impressed with my management credentials. He wanted me to come in for an intrview, as a trainer with WFG in Brea, Ca on Saturday 10/03/2009.

What concerns me about WFG, is the way this company is the dishonest and unethical in their practice of contacting people to work for their company. 

Mr.Peters would not answer any questions I had about WFG, when he called me, but only stated to come to the intrview with him on saturday and he would answer any questions I had. This to was diceptive, because I had no interview with him. I was never offered a trainer position with the company, but instead I was taken in a room with 23 other people and was told if we work hard and give the company $100.00, we to can be millionaires, while helping people.

So to make this long story short. I believe this was a strong arm tactic to make us who were out of work feel guilty for not signing on with WFG, so we to can be millionaires.

AELustig

Brea, CA

 

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#8

GROW UP

AUTHOR: xxxxxxx - (USA)

POSTED: Friday, September 18, 2009

Do your research, you have to have licenses to work here, you can't be a scam if the state and federal government are the ones that you apply to for your licenses. 


I have been here 14 years and in my worst years, I made more than working for a corporation with a bachelors and an associate degree.


My thought is that you are not a motivated person.  You should apply for a JOB be happy and leave us people alone that are driven and can make more out of our lives than working for someone else.


Good luck and blessing to you and your career.  I hope like we say you reach finanicial independence, have a financial plan, have proper debt management strategies if applicable, have enough money saved to do what you wish before and during retirement, HAVE taxable, tax deffered and tax free for your short, mid and long term financial goals.  Have an offensive and defensive plan on money so you are making money in a bull market and protecting money in a bear market and last when you pass do you have the most tax efficient, family driven plan.  I have clients that LOVE me for all of the above!!!!!


It sound like you do and don't need this kind of help, but sorry you did not see the value in the company and the products listed in the field manual. 

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#7 Consumer Suggestion

how much research did you do?

AUTHOR: Commonsense - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Saturday, August 08, 2009

all financial companies function the same way. Some have different styles, but they all have similarities. Each branch with WFG and several other finanical companies are independantely owned and operated by the broker. If the "recruiter" did not explain everything to your husbands liking, he should not have gone in. I have interviewed with several investment firms and they all say the same thing, "come in and we will explain." It is too much to get into over the phone.

Selling your friends and family is not a requirement at all! They recommend that so you can get field trained by a licensed and experienced field trainer. Go ahead and interview with Northwestern Mutual, or Mass Mutual....because they are going to have you do the same thing!!! But you wouldn't know that because those companies won't even give the average person the time of day. Atleast WFG will give you a shot at being successful. If your husband wants to get into financial services, let him know that its not an easy business....there is no such thing as "salary" (unless you want to make only 40k a year).....and to look at concepts and think with logic and not emotion. The reason that the background check is $100 is because it is a processing fee and not cost effective for the company to do checks on everyone that wants to work with WFG. You do have to get licensed as well. There is also a reimbursement program that pays you back for your licensing and the background check.

I suggest you do proper research and look at all the facts rather than over react. If the recuiter was not upfront about everything, then I would be upset too, but i would not let one bad apple spoil a bunch. You can find negativity on all companies in every industry. let's use common sense and think for ourselves.

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#6 Consumer Comment

I knew something didn't sound right...

AUTHOR: Look Before You Leap - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Friday, July 31, 2009

All I can say is, thank goodness I did my research before I did anything and found other recent reports on the Brea facility.

First of all, my first turn off immediately was getting a call at 6:35 PM in "regarding my resume". What employer calls in the evening for an interview? Next, the person on the other end of the line was a little difficult to understand, so I had to ask her to repeat herself a few times. I had 2 other adults in the room with me who heard my end of the conversation and said that I asked her at least 3 times what the position she was calling about for. I wasn't paying attention myself how many times because I was trying to get answers that were not being given. She told me that the company was expanding and had various positions I could be "placed" in according to my experience, skills and qualifications. So I asked, "are you a temporary agency?" She told me no and persisted in giving me an appointment for an interview for either 1pm, Friday or 10am Saturday. I'm thinking, Saturday? Who conducts interviews on Saturdays? Like the other posts I've read, I was actually told the company was World Financial Group. When I asked for a call back number, she said that she would send me all the information through email, verified my email address and actually followed through with what she said.

Below is the actual emails I received, but omitted names, numbers and other information. I tried to be polite in my reply, but you can see that in response, she didn't quite see that I said I would NOT be at the interview and must have assumed that I would still show up.

I don't think this is actually a "scam" like others claim, but when you don't get answers by phone and all they do is try to get you in the door, I would demand a company name and location to do research. I'm sure this company must work for some, but not for everyone and I'll openly admit that it's definately not for me! I think it's just a bad way to get people in the door who are desperately looking for a job by not giving any answers and just want you to show up.



------------
Date: Thursday, July 30, 2009, 6:46 PM
Your scheduled interview is on July 31, 2009 Friday at 1pm at the Brea Office of World Financial Group (an AEGON Company) located at "3350 E Birch St., Suite 200, Brea CA 92821".
For any questions call "714-###-####".

*Important: Bring a hard copy of your resume and write "J---- C---", your interviewer, at the top right hand corner of the resume.
Please dress in business attire (Gentlemen in suit and tie).

Also please reply to this email to let us know you have received it.
Thank you,
N---
Recruiting Manager Assistant
------------

Jul 30, 2009 at 10:59 PM:
N,
I'm sorry, but this email still does not tell me what the position is you are hiring for. I've gone through the list of companies I've sent my resumes to, and when I looked up what your company is about, it's about marketing! I'm sorry, but I am NOT interested in a marketing position.
I will NOT be present for the interview.
Thank you

-------------
July 31, 2009 at 8:52 AM
I understand your concern, We will place you according to your qualifications, experiences and skills. I know you have a lot of questions and so do we for you. I'll make sure all your questions get answered during the interview.

Looking forward seeing you today July 31, 2009 Friday at 1pm.
Thank you,
N---
Recruiting Manager Assistant

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#5 Consumer Comment

I knew something didn't sound right...

AUTHOR: Look Before You Leap - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Friday, July 31, 2009

All I can say is, thank goodness I did my research before I did anything and found other recent reports on the Brea facility.

First of all, my first turn off immediately was getting a call at 6:35 PM in "regarding my resume". What employer calls in the evening for an interview? Next, the person on the other end of the line was a little difficult to understand, so I had to ask her to repeat herself a few times. I had 2 other adults in the room with me who heard my end of the conversation and said that I asked her at least 3 times what the position she was calling about for. I wasn't paying attention myself how many times because I was trying to get answers that were not being given. She told me that the company was expanding and had various positions I could be "placed" in according to my experience, skills and qualifications. So I asked, "are you a temporary agency?" She told me no and persisted in giving me an appointment for an interview for either 1pm, Friday or 10am Saturday. I'm thinking, Saturday? Who conducts interviews on Saturdays? Like the other posts I've read, I was actually told the company was World Financial Group. When I asked for a call back number, she said that she would send me all the information through email, verified my email address and actually followed through with what she said.

Below is the actual emails I received, but omitted names, numbers and other information. I tried to be polite in my reply, but you can see that in response, she didn't quite see that I said I would NOT be at the interview and must have assumed that I would still show up.

I don't think this is actually a "scam" like others claim, but when you don't get answers by phone and all they do is try to get you in the door, I would demand a company name and location to do research. I'm sure this company must work for some, but not for everyone and I'll openly admit that it's definately not for me! I think it's just a bad way to get people in the door who are desperately looking for a job by not giving any answers and just want you to show up.



------------
Date: Thursday, July 30, 2009, 6:46 PM
Your scheduled interview is on July 31, 2009 Friday at 1pm at the Brea Office of World Financial Group (an AEGON Company) located at "3350 E Birch St., Suite 200, Brea CA 92821".
For any questions call "714-###-####".

*Important: Bring a hard copy of your resume and write "J---- C---", your interviewer, at the top right hand corner of the resume.
Please dress in business attire (Gentlemen in suit and tie).

Also please reply to this email to let us know you have received it.
Thank you,
N---
Recruiting Manager Assistant
------------

Jul 30, 2009 at 10:59 PM:
N,
I'm sorry, but this email still does not tell me what the position is you are hiring for. I've gone through the list of companies I've sent my resumes to, and when I looked up what your company is about, it's about marketing! I'm sorry, but I am NOT interested in a marketing position.
I will NOT be present for the interview.
Thank you

-------------
July 31, 2009 at 8:52 AM
I understand your concern, We will place you according to your qualifications, experiences and skills. I know you have a lot of questions and so do we for you. I'll make sure all your questions get answered during the interview.

Looking forward seeing you today July 31, 2009 Friday at 1pm.
Thank you,
N---
Recruiting Manager Assistant

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#4 UPDATE Employee

One bad apple

AUTHOR: Mightymight - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, July 30, 2009

Every company has both good and bad employees. I'm sure that if 'It's a shame' were to think of the worst and best employee where she works she might imagine that the same situation could happen at her workplace. "It's a shame' and her husband have fallen victim to the phallacy of composition: one person at World Finance Group acted unethically and tried to "scam" my husband, therefor all of World Finance Group and all of their employees are unethical and run a scam. Nothing could be further from the truth.

I agree that it is a shame your husband met/was contacted by a WFG employee that was using a tactic that is not approved or encouraged by the company (there are no 'recruiters' by the way). While looking for new associates via online job searches is a common practice, misleading them as to the offer of employment is not the norm. The purpose of the BPM (business presentation meeting) is to inform and educate people about the company, what it does and IF it might be a job they are interested in pursuing. We do not give this presentation all day long with droves of people lined up. This is an exageration on your part 'It's a shame'. **Shame on you**

WFG is a multi-level marketing organization, or as many of the naysayers out there like to put it "a pyramid scam." It takes hard work, dedication and a lot of patience. Every one of the negative reviews I have read about the company have come from individuals that worked there less than 3-4 months. My guess is that they put in a minimal amount of effort yet expected to see loads of money in only a few weeks or so--which of course they never did. So they got upset and wrote reviews about how our company is a rip-off or running a scam.

It is a true shame that your husband was misled. This is a legitimate company that has the potential of high income for those willing to put in the effort and time. I'm sure 'It's a shame' is also the type of person to judge every Enron employee as being unethical and greedy based on the actions of a few bad apples. If your husband wants the straight dope on what we really do please respond back to my post and I will give you my email or phone# so he can get a better idea of what we are really all about--helping families.

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#3 Consumer Comment

Forget the J.O.B

AUTHOR: Ivyvega07 - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Friday, July 24, 2009

Im not saying i agree with most of the products that WFG offers, they do screw the consumer over but what the lady said about being unethical thats just dumb! There is no tough economic times have you been to the mall apparently people are still spending money like always. All the lady said in the end are just excuses find a place were you can make only commision then only you can determine how much you make, and no one has the thumb on you! Forget the JOB (Just Over Broke) Get to work and stop using the dumb excuse "these tough economic times" thats BS!

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#2 UPDATE Employee

Too bad your husband didn't get to meet a better WFG agent

AUTHOR: Vancouver Gal - (Canada)

POSTED: Friday, July 17, 2009

Hello! I'm sorry to hear that particular WFG office invited your husband to their corporate overview by telling him it was an "interview". Actually, no one really gets interviewed to work in the company. Everyone is an independent associate. In other words that means you work for yourself, you own your own business. Had he signed up he would have been self-employed but working in a team environment. WFG is a network marketing business (not a pyramid scheme) with great earning potential. Donald Trump and Robert Kiyosaki actually co-authored a book in which they talk about why they support network marketing...look it up! You do have to be licensed to work for this company and you do need to pass a background check to make sure you have never filed for bankruptcy and also to ensure that you don't have a criminal record. This is a highly regulated industry. So that's what the $100 would have been for. That particular office should have told your husband that this is a business opportunity, not a job interview. I'm new in the business and have only been with WFG a few months. So far, no complaints. It takes a certain type of person to be able to do this type of work however, no lazy people should start this business as you do need to be self-motivated and build a client base in the beginning (much like a real estate agent or a financial planner working for a more traditional company). I actually had my own plan done before I signed up to do the business and I was very impressed. It's definately helping me get out of debt faster since I graduated from university!

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#1 Consumer Suggestion

Get off your A$$ and do some work..

AUTHOR: Je702 - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Friday, June 26, 2009

The problem with many people these days is they are afraid of.. "WORK"..

It sounds like your husband was approached to sell financial services products. Selling these products requires hard work and effort.

Kick your husband in the A$$ and have him put in some actual effort and maybe he'll be able to bring home some steak with your rice and peas.

If he is looking for a job that he doesn't have to actually put EFFORT into, then he is about 20 years behind the curve.

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