Additionally, the considerable number of layoffs and company downsizing in recent years make business ownership arguably a more secure career choice than the traditional 9-to-5 job.

While the benefits of being an entrepreneur seem obvious, many recent graduates and long-time employees shy away from starting their own business. Lack of investment capital and little-to-no marketing knowledge often squelches the entrepreneurial spirit in many would-be business owners.

But what if there were a way to obtain all the advantages associated with being a business owner without the drawbacks of expensive start-up costs and time-consuming promotional efforts? AFLAC (American Family Life Assurance Company), a leading provider of voluntary employee benefits, enables aspiring entrepreneurs to do just that.

The Columbus, Georgia-based insurance company provides personal career opportunities for nearly 60,000 sales associates across the country. With top financial ratings from industry analysts and 90% brand recognition created by the popular duck commercials, AFLAC offers an entrepreneurial launching pad for graduating students who dream of financial independence through having their own business.

The company provides a unique opportunity for those interested in starting a business, according to Warren Steele, AFLAC Senior Vice President of Marketing. "We provide an array of quality healthcare products; association with a well-known, national advertising campaign; and a full-service Marketing Department that continually creates services to help grow your business."

Named in 2003 to Fortune magazine's list of "The 50 Best Companies for Minorities," AFLAC actively supports developing a diverse sales force.

"With our Diversity in Action Newsletter, Minority Mentoring Program, and diversity development grants, we provide an opportunity for African Americans to serve a very under penetrated marketplace as we focus on diversifying our sales organization," said Steele. "It's an opportunity that any college graduate should consider if interested in the independence and financial reward of owning a business."

The financial rewards are apparently worth the effort. AFLAC offers an attractive compensation package with advanced first-year commissions, life-time level renewal commissions, stock and cash bonuses, and elaborate incentives and trips.

AFLAC sales associates often earn top dollars. In 2003, the average annual income for the top 500 associates was well over $300,000.

One of AFLAC's top earners is Tommy Johnson, a regional sales coordinator in Indiana. Tommy joined AFLAC in 1999 shortly after graduating from the University of Maryland and quickly earned Rookie of the Year honors.

When asked about the benefits of being an entrepreneur, Johnson responded, "Being an entrepreneur develops character. It goes beyond being a regular W-2 employee. You have more options with your own business. The income potential is infinite if you are willing to work at it."

According to Johnson, AFLAC not only helped him realize his dream of being a business owner, but it also provided a career that gave him both professional and personal satisfaction.

"I've always wanted to work for myself, and AFLAC presented an inexpensive way for me to start my own business. I have earned the respect of corporate America. When I meet with CEOs, I'm thanked for adding value to their company. Likewise, I receive gratitude from AFLAC policyholders. The absolute best part of my job is being able to help individuals when they need financial assistance with medical expenses."

Johnson believes that African Americans should especially consider a career in sales because it is a true equal employment opportunity. "A sales career is one of the few vehicles that will allow you to determine how fast or slow you want to achieve. If you have drive, there is no reason you can't succeed."

"I have been successful because I set high goals for myself and I must say that I have met my career expectations with AFLAC," continued Johnson. "The expectations you have for yourself should always exceed what others expect of you."

Visit www.aflac.com for more details on becoming an associate.