Pros
Axa is a good place to work if you are 1. experienced, 2, have an existing book of business or 3. have an extensive business and social network to jump start your career. If your new to the business and have to get licensed and training etc. you better have sizeable savings and/or a working spouse as you are not paid during this period and can't sell anything until you are licensed. Aside from living expenses, there are constant business expense "surprises" that pop up, and are quite costly. You are in "business for yourself" as you are often reminded and you get nickel and dimed for everything. They do offer alot of training you should take advantage of but your real linch pin for success is the abilities and assistance that your ditrict manager provides (or doesn't) you. Some are really committed and go out of their way to help you. Others do the minimum just to get a slice of your action. It's a very conservative company and everyhting is "black and white". Be prepared, you have quarterly "validations" to meet and if not, it's adios, regardless of the reason. It is a revolving door there and people disappear regularly with no explanations. There are many people making alot of money there, it just won't be you for at least 3 years, so expect to work long hours "building your business" while working your schedule around all the time expended on the mandatory (unpaid) training and meetings you are required to attend during the day (8am-5pm) every week. Your AVAILABLE work time will mostly consist of nights and weekends. That is their expectation, this is not a 9-5 job unless you're a manager and have open time during the day to schedule client meetings. In addition to working/training through the day, I work 4-5 (often till 10pm-11pm) nights a week, almost every Saturday and some Sundays. If you can stick it out and hit your quotas it can be lucrative after you're established and able to cover all their expenses. They do have good network and administrative support, as well as longevity (150 yrs) and size in the market.
Cons
High base expenses just to work there. See above