Financial Literacy
How Small Credit Unions Can Become Vital
For the past 20+ years, credit unions seeking to grow, have made charter changes to community charters, often from multi-common bond or sole sponsorship charters. The goal was to minimize the perceived barriers to membership. The belief was that if anyone could join my credit union, growth would be unconstrained. In some cases, this was…
Read MoreTwelve Steps to Bonding with Your Members
Unlike traditional banks, credit unions have a mission to serve their members, not shareholders. This fundamental difference makes building solid and lasting relationships with their members possible. To make members love their credit union, focusing on delivering exceptional service, fostering trust, and offering financial products that meet their needs is essential. Below, I will explore…
Read MoreShould YOU Consider a Fractional Executive?
To thrive in today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, credit unions must adapt, innovate, and strategically manage their operations. One innovative solution that credit unions are increasingly turning to is the fractional executive. Fractional executives are experienced professionals who work, typically as contract employees, part-time or on a project basis, to provide specialized expertise and leadership. In…
Read MoreDiscovering Your Niche
How Credit Unions Can Identify and Serve Unique Markets Credit unions are known for their community-based approach and member-centric services. While larger banks are designed to cater to a broad spectrum of customers, “being all things to all people,” credit unions can have a distinct advantage by serving specific niche markets that require customized products…
Read MoreJunk Fees- Credit Unions have options
Junk Fees are making the headlines. Many of these “junk fees” are designed to punish a member for bad behavior. Is this what the mission, “People helping People,” means? Using fees to punish members who have made mistakes, are financially stressed, or are struggling doesn’t fit this mission. This article will clarify what they are…
Read MoreGet Closer to Your Member with Nano Strategies
Nano strategies at a credit union would refer to implementing highly focused, granular, and member-centric approaches to achieve various goals, such as improving member experience, enhancing operational efficiency, and increasing financial performance. These strategies involve leveraging technology, data, and innovative practices to create personalized experiences and streamline processes. Here are some examples of what nano…
Read MoreFinancial Education, Literacy, or Wellness – Oh My!
In credit unions, Financial Education, Financial Literacy, and Financial Wellness are seemingly interchangeable, but each has a distinct meaning and purpose. What does your credit union want to become in the eyes of your members and the community? Which of these options will differentiate you from other financial providers? Financial Education: Financial education provides consumers…
Read MoreGap Funding – Bridging the Divide and Driving Economic Empowerment
In pursuing a more equitable society, supporting businesses owned by individuals from marginalized communities is paramount to a vital, innovative, and sustainable economy. These marginalized groups include BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), women, veterans, and rural entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs face unique challenges, the least of which is limited access to capital. Mentoring, coaching,…
Read MoreFinancial Literacy vs Financial Wellness – a Consumer’s View
Credit unions and banks across the country have financial literacy on their to-do list, but what consumers need/want is a roadmap to financial wellness, not just financial literacy. Well, what’s the difference? Financial literacy is about understanding money basics. Typically the curriculum includes topics like “how to balance your checkbook,” “what is a savings account,”…
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