Northwestern Mutual has increased its recruitment by 13% over last year, putting the company on target to meets its goal of adding 5,000 representatives and interns by the end of the year.

The company has filled 4,300 new positions thus far this year. The recruitment drive is the largest in the company's 155-year history, with the goal of adding 2,000 new representatives and 3,000 new financial representative interns in 2012.

"While the job market continues to be a challenge, there is a growing sector that proves to be a good opportunity for job seekers-the financial advice industry," said Northwestern Mutual Vice President Steven Mannebach.

"We have seen an increasing need for financial professionals, and we set these recruitment targets to keep up with this need and the market," he added.

Life insurance policy sales have increased roughly 9%, while sales of disability insurance are up 15% and long-term care insurance policy sales are up 13%, according to the company.

"Our recent sales numbers support our recruiting efforts," Mannebach said.

-Karen DeMasters