Dan Orfin, Founder and President at Orfin & Associates, has been a determined professional from a young age. Dedicated to serving people in his life, he has worked hard and created a level of success that is unmatched to those around him.

Daniel Patrick Orfin spent his formative years in the metropolitan Detroit area. Detroit, Michigan, in the United States, is a busy area in the mid-western part of the country. This gave Mr. Orfin a rich background filled with unique experiences. Throughout High School, he continued to work, but for a small business. There, he was inspired by the interactions with the owner of that company. Orfin later attended Western Michigan University after High School where he obtained a degree in Production Operation Management. Upon receiving his degree, he pursued his first job working with General Motors in 1999. It was here that he realized he wasn’t helping people in the way that he wanted to.

In 2000, he began Orfin & Associates. He kicked off this venture with an emphasis on insurance and developed a foundation built on honesty, openness, and helping others. With these values, he works to educate others on planning for retirement and their future.

Currently, he is running his own scholarship program – Dan Orfin Scholarship Program as a way to promote positive change and give back to the community. Under his program, Orfin hopes to help out those seeking to pursue higher education without the necessary funds to do so.

How did you get started in this business?

I have always wanted to do something that I knew would help others. Managing finances can provide not only fiscal freedom, but at the very least fiscal security. Over the many years, I’ve come to realize the primary thing many people lack for securing both a financial dream and a financial future are the tools. I’ve made it my mission to provide those tools for everyone I encounter, no matter the state of the economy.

How does your business generate revenue?

Orfin & Associates is able to generate revenue by thoughtfully helping out others. We offer educational seminars that touch on strategies in challenging times, getting yourself prepared for retirement, strategies to help you achieve long-term financial goals, etc.

How long did it take for you to become profitable? When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?

It didn’t take me too long to become profitable. Initially, I dedicated myself to providing tools to those who needed them. Over time, that has grown a reputation that brings people to me. As such, my company was able to quickly yield a profit. When people know you care about them, it brings them back.

How did you get your first customer?

When I moved into my own firm, I had several clients follow me. It was something that meant a lot to me and we have continued to manage their portfolios. They are wonderful people and I’m proud to have been able to help them reach their personal goals.

What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?

Networking is really the next best tool. By connecting with other people, I have been able to build unique approaches and pave the way for new customers both for myself and other peers. It’s important to build your sense of community both for your clients and your peers. The professional network can be as strong as word of mouth if you’re able to find win win situations.

What do you think it is that makes you successful?

I think prioritizing relationships is what paved the way to my success. Without considering the people around you and the people you serve you’re lost. Building a relationship helps you understand and serve their needs while still ensuring you’re finding the best results.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

The first time one of my clients contacted me just to say thank you. One day can often move right into the next. When someone appreciates what you or one of your people have done for them enough to contact you about it, it’s amazing. It confirms what you already know about your knowledge and tools. Having a little confirmation you’re doing what you can is immeasurable. Knowing you’re serving people well is also incredible.

What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?

I am excited about the introduction of financial planning applications. They are very good for those who can’t afford to hire a financial advisor. They help educate people about taking charge of their fiscal future by understanding the options and opportunities that are available. That is one of the most powerful things people can do for themselves.

What business books have inspired you?

Oh, good question. I think I would still go with The Wealthy Barber. This book really outlines a practical path to fiscal independence. That’s more critical than you could imagine.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I’d definitely tell younger Dan Orfin that chasing a goal with ceaseless persistence will ensure achieving it. It will never make a difference in what that goal is, as long as you have the same dogged determination. Put your head down. Focus on the goal, and barrel through the failures that will come. Everything will fall into place.

Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?

Being a mentor is part of building your community. You should be available to do this for everyone in your company. Hear them out and find out how you can serve them best. That creates an environment where everyone thrives and grows.

What can you tell us about your scholarship program?

I started the Dan Orfin Scholarship Program at the beginning of 2020. It was officially launched on February 3rd and students in Canada and the US are welcome to apply. The scholarship program will be offering 3 scholarships and applicants are to gather all necessary documents, including a letter of acceptance as well as a 500 word essay telling me a little bit about themselves and their views on the importance of saving money.

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