Tonya Cellers Community Banker lll Simmons Bank, Hot Springs, AR
What can banks do to better appeal to millennials – in the workforce and as customers? Millennials bring new ideas and innovations, so it is important for banks to make recruiting them a priority. They can focus on recruiting at colleges and on social media, offer a competitive salary, expand perks and increase volunteer efforts in their communities. We want defined career paths and the opportunity to make a difference in our community. If a bank can accomplish those two things, they would make banking an appealing choice. To gain millennials as clients, banks must reach them in their preferred channels like social media. They need to focus on mobile banking that is fast and easy. Millennials are not intimidated by tech like previous generations. If they can focus on convenience while still promoting the banker client relationship, they will have life long customers. What technology innovation has made the most impact on your life? My smart phone of course! I know it is cliché, but I do everything from my phone. Banking, shopping, investing, interacting with friends, you name it. I also use it every day to listen to either a book, music or one of my favorite podcasts. What advice do you have for women wanting to get into banking? Just go for it! Banking is still a male dominated field, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. It is important for women to have a seat at the table. We can bring different perspectives and skill sets that are important to the industry and community. You should not be afraid to be yourself even if you are the only woman in the room. Early in my career, I tried to be more like my male counter parts. I was not being authentic to myself or my work style. One of my favorite quotes is “Don’t make yourself small to make others feel more comfortable”. I think women often fall into that trap when working in a male dominated environment. Engrained social norms can be a difficult thing to change. However, I think it would be difficult to be happy and successful in your career if you are not being authentic. I am incredibly fortunate to now work for a bank that sees the importance of a diversified workforce and embraces women in banking. What civic project has your bank participated in that touched you the most? Recently, our team provided lunch for the ER staff at our local hospitals. During this time of uncertainty, it was important for us to let our medical workers know that we appreciate their sacrifices. We also used clients who own restaurants for the catering. Our community is hurting so any small gesture of appreciation and support means a lot to them right now. What can you simply not resist? Any opportunity to spend with my son! I will cancel plans to hang with him. Luckily, my friends are gracious with me.
The Arkansas Banker n Summer 2020
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