What Defines a Great Place to Work?
What Makes a Community Bank or Credit Union a Great Place to Work?
Two Key Lessons Learned from Trends of Successful Companies
Written by Donna Thaxter, Training, Coaching and Professional Development Consultant.
In recent years, community banks and credit unions have increasingly recognized the value and impact of standing out as inspiring and rewarding workplaces. We’ve identified five core focuses shared by those institutions that have succeeded. Today’s article will focus on the first two. Stay tuned for our part two article that will share three additional core focuses for success.
The first strategy that stands out in these successful financial institutions is their focus on building a culture of coaching and feedback. Managers are trained to engage their people in regular one-on-one conversations, not just to check in on work, but to talk about goals, challenges, and career aspirations. These conversations create a platform of trust and make employees feel valued. Regular coaching sessions are built into the company’s rhythm, helping staff feel confident in their roles and supported in their careers. The organization benefits from higher employee engagement, a stronger bench of performers who are ready to take on new challenges, and lower staff turnover. Team members know they have both a voice and a future at the organization.
A second strategy shared by these organizations is their focus on investing in people just as much as they invest in communities. These financial institutions offer development programs that go beyond technical training. Employees have access to mentorship, leadership development (for current and emerging leaders), and personal growth workshops. This culture of growth also helps the institutions to serve their customers and members better as empowered employees are more motivated and better equipped to help others.
Why It Matters
When employees are offered professional development opportunities and are coached and supported through one-on-one conversations, they tend to stay longer, grow faster, and feel more connected to their organization’s mission. This kind of culture creates a workplace where people can thrive —not just do a job, but build a meaningful career. Community banks and credit unions that invest in their people are finding that the return goes far beyond the bottom line—it shows up in stronger teams, happier customers, and lasting impact in the communities they serve.
Contact our Director, Bill Dolan, to learn more about SCA’s integrated training, coaching, and Organizational Development services. You can reach Bill via email (WDolan@scapartnering.com) or phone (617-694-2617).
