There are always those with more success. When the opportunity opens up, sit down with them and pick their brains. You will learn something from every success story instead of teaching yourself everything along the way.
Stephen Goehl is the President and Owner of Goehl Financial Services.
With over 40 years of financial industry experience, Stephen Goehl has dedicated his life to helping others and giving back to his community. In 2003, Stephen Goehl created Goehl Financial Services, located in Geneva, Illinois where he specializes in financial consulting and retirement planning.
Stephen Goehl was born in Huntley, Illinois, and has stayed close to home, living nearby with his wife and children. In 1972 Stephen Goehl graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Northern Illinois University in Dekalb. He went on to earn both his Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriting Degree from the American College. Goehl has remained a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors for more than 40 years.
When Stephen Goehl graduated from the Northern University of Illinois in DeKalb, he held the position of co-captain of the football team. To this date, Goehl holds the school record for five rushing touchdowns made in a single game. Goehl’s love for physical fitness is still strong, as he works out four to five times a week to remain in great shape. He also enjoys traveling, golf, and watching live sports events. When Goehl is not following Huskie football, he enjoys following his grandchildren and their sports successes.
The president and owner of Goehl Financial Services enjoys balancing his life between family and clients. Both are cornerstones of his life. Stephen Goehl’s continued dedication to his clients and personal work ethic set him apart from many in this industry today.
Where did the idea for Goehl Financial Services come from?
It was my goal to have something that was both simple and personal. That led me to select my name and something that clearly indicated what the company is, thus Goehl Financial. It was much more personal than some third party sounding name.
What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?
Every morning I’m in the office by 8:30. The first thing I do is follow up with all of the phone calls waiting for me. It is important to me to call back to everyone who calls me within 24 hours of the call coming in. After that, I work through my appointments with a goal of balancing both prospective customers and existing ones. Most days I’m home by 5pm; however, there are times when appointments go later or need to be done over the weekend. I work hard to accommodate my clients.
How do you bring ideas to life?
After doing a lot of research through reading business related magazines or talking to other marketing representatives with measurable success, I implement what I learn. Often others have experienced different approaches that can apply to my company or my clients. It takes steady lessons and implementation to bring new life to business, clients, and success.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Retirement planning is a huge concern for many of my clients. We find a big fear is outliving the money they have earned. Our goal and products work to help secure retirement income, so this is not a problem anyone has to face. Additionally, we offer long-term care coverage with in-home care. This means that if one of our clients should become ill and require in-home care, they don’t have to turn to their children or family because they are sick. They have arranged to protect themselves, and we’ve made that possible.
What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?
I believe that self-discipline and sticking to a solid routine has created success for me. This means going into the office every day, making the phone calls every day, following through clients, and moving forward where needed for every day. This allows me to make appointments that fill every day. If you can have the discipline you need and the routine that maximizes your time, you’ll find success.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell myself to learn from those who know more than you. There are always those with more success. When the opportunity opens up, sit down with them and pick their brains. You will learn something from every success story instead of teaching yourself everything along the way.
Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on?
With some of the products we offer, people have a hard time understanding how they work. We have this one program called an index annuity. This program protects money when the market goes down and when the market improves this program grows the money. It is a good strategy and product that secures finances regardless of the market conditions. Many of our customers have a hard time understanding that.
As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?
When you’re your own boss, it is a challenge to stay on top of everything. One good way to make sure you do is to read. A solid work ethic, self-discipline, and structured priorities help ensure you are able to remain actively in control of your day. Reading keeps you informed and aware of market changes, opportunities and enables you to learn new information that could help your clients. I keep a goal sheet, and I read.
I also enjoy having a little fun when I’m not in the office.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?
Seminar marketing has been integral to the expansion of my business. We invite people for a seminar over dinner. After the presentation, we make time for each of those in attendance and offer to meet later with no obligation to sign up with us. In all, we buy dinner, they enjoy a good meal, and many people enjoy the opportunity to learn more later.
What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
Finding ways to market my services and products has been a real challenge since the beginning. Thankfully, this seminar marketing process has opened up more doors for both my company and our clients. Of all of the different marketing approaches I’ve had, this one has worked the best.
I was searching for someone when I encountered a marketing group. They took the time to teach the process to me and with their support, it was implemented. Learning from those who already know how to do things is the fastest way to learn anything, and these guys made sure I knew what I was doing. It really turned out well.
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
When you have settled on your business idea, no matter if it’s investing or if it’s a car mechanic’s shop, make certain your focus is on finding the right client. Focusing on money means you’re counting dollars and cents. Focusing on people means you’re counting success and continued successes.
A more specific business idea is a bit more challenging for me.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
I recently purchased a new golf club. It’s really been a boon for my short game. It’s nice when you can find something that helps you out and brings a smile to your face.
What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
The only real software I use right now is what’s on my phone. Text messaging and phone calls keep me in contact with the office and on track for my next appointment. I have found that keeping everything organized is an immeasurable asset.
What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
I would suggest reading “The Wall Street Journal” every day. It helps you to keep your finger on the pulse of the world, both in business and in life.
What is your favorite quote?
Adversity is expected. How I respond is what makes me elite – US Navy Seals.
Key learnings:
● Self-discipline
● Strong Work Ethic
● Passion
● Goals
● Competitive Spirit
If you have all of those, you’ll find success.
Connect:
Goehl Financial Services on Facebook:
Stephen Goehl on Linkedin:
Resources on YouTube
Carlyn runs the day-to-day publishing operation here at ideamensch and interacts with our awesome customers and entrepreneurs. She is likely editing this with a cat on her lap.