THE MILLENNIAL MINUTE with Chance Robbins

Vice President/Innovative Technology Officer CS Bank, Eureka Springs

WHAT MOVIE CHARACTER ARE YOU MOST SIMILAR TO?

Over the years, I have been told by countless customers that my personality and humor remind them of Chris Farley. Although I don’t live in a van down by the river, I’ve done my fair share of motivational speaking at employee events!

HOW DO YOU CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AS A BANKER AND LEADER?

Investing in myself and setting clear goals to strive toward. The best way to continue working on yourself is looking forward. Everyone makes mistakes in life but one main key point is to not dwell in the past but look to the future. I try to not see my role in the bank as “just a job”. Finding the right motivation in your life will drive you to keep reaching forward. Although this cannot be easy at times, you have to be open to criticism. The day a person stops trying to make improvements, is the day they stop being a leader. Lead by example and set the bar high.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR THE YOUNGER GENERATION OF BANKERS TO GET INVOLVED IN THE GOINGS-ON IN OUR INDUSTRY?

They are the future of banking. Period. As a seasoned banker, it is my job to encourage them to provide their insights. A lot of newer bankers have great out of the box ideas. It is our job to help bring the newer generations up.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT

WORKING AT A BANK IN A SMALL TOWN?

The people. I have the privilege to work in the same community I grew up in. Shopping in a local grocery store can sometimes go from being a shopper to becoming a banker quickly if the need arises. I love the fact that we live in a community where people know you as that guy from the bank. Community banking is truly about helping people out regardless of where you are at!

WHAT DO YOU LISTEN TO ON YOUR MORNING COMMUTE?

This is a moving target for sure! My morning tunes could vary from Baby Shark to AC/ DC Thunderstruck depending on which of my kids I’ve got with me. My 8-year-old might or might not request Thunderstruck be played on his way to school. Whether it be morning or evening, classic rock is most likely being played if I’m driving!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PAIR OF SHOES?

Hey Dudes! My wife will gladly tell you I have far too many pairs of Hey Dudes. I have house dudes, yard dudes, work dudes… You get the drift!

WHAT SUBJECT COULD YOU GIVE A ONE-HOUR IMPROMPTU LECTURE ON?

Although I have going on 18 years of banking experience, the art of smoking meat would definitely get the nod here. I’ve been mastering this art for several years now. Seeing the faces people make after taking their first bite makes all the hours of preparation worth it. My backyard hobby turned into a business a few years ago. We will soon start our fourth year and are beyond blessed to run a successful small business. To be successful, you have to be passionate about what you do. It doesn’t hurt that I enjoy BBQ!