communication
Data Governance – Mitigating Data Biases
Part 3 Credit unions have many data sources beyond their core operating system. When a credit union conducts a data source inventory, it is not uncommon to have 50 or more data sources. These third-party data sets and reports commonly come in various formats, with different labels and definitions, and upload and report timing. Inconsistency…
Read More“Service as an Act of Stewardship” will Transform your Credit Union
Service, what is it? Bank service has been defined by the consumer as, did they engage me quickly, did they make eye contact, did they smile, were they fast, did they say thank you – a very low bar to member satisfaction but one that doesn’t differentiate the credit union. What can a credit union…
Read MoreLeaders, Avoid “Bobbleheads”
In leadership, the tendency to surround oneself with individuals who constantly nod in agreement—often called ‘bobbleheads’ due to their constant nodding—can be detrimental to effective decision-making, innovation, and overall credit union success. This behavior can lead to a lack of critical evaluation of ideas, as everyone agrees without questioning or offering alternative viewpoints. While it…
Read MoreMarketing Must Be Seen!
Marketing is not just an expense line; it is a strategic partner as credit unions face challenges adapting to rapidly evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. By reimagining marketing’s place and purpose, credit unions can attract new members and reshape perceptions among their executives. First, let’s identify what marketing can and cannot control. What marketing…
Read MoreManaging a Hybrid Workforce – Success Strategies
Managers are now challenged to effectively manage staff remotely. The cadence of when employees must be “in the office” versus working remotely varies from credit union to credit union and even department to department. Managers and policymakers must realize that team management focuses on equity versus equality. Let’s first identify the purpose of employees meeting…
Read MoreThe “B” in DEIB – Strategies for Fostering Belonging
The importance of an employee feeling like they belong cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts individual and organizational outcomes. An employee’s race, religion, sexual identity, gender, and age must be taken into consideration if a credit union seeks to create a culture of belonging. This strong sense of belonging contributes significantly to employee well-being,…
Read MoreLeadership: Navigating Challenges with Courage and Compassion
Leadership is often glamorized as a position of power and influence, but the reality is that it is not for the faint of heart. Authentic leaders are not defined solely by their titles or authority; their hearts’ size distinguishes them. Leading with empathy, courage, and compassion is the hallmark of great leadership, as it involves…
Read MoreAdapting “Management by Walking Around” for the Hybrid Credit Union
“Management by walking around” (MBWA) has been a management staple for decades. The phrase was popularized in the 1980s. Consultants Tom Peters and Robert Waterman explored the idea in their 1982 book, In Search of Excellence: Lessons from America’s Best-Run Companies. It involves leaders physically visiting their staff to observe their engagement and effort to understand…
Read MoreLeadership Requires INTENTIONAL Active Listening
Good News: Active Listening is a Learned Skill In a fast-paced and increasingly remote and digital world, communication has taken various forms, from texting and email to video calls and social media. With the rapid evolution of our work environment, communication needs to be seen in the prism of the art of active listening. We…
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