Human Resources
Managers: The Vital Heartbeat in Credit Unions
In the intricate ecosystem of a credit union, the manager’s role is indispensable and multifaceted. While their primary duty may seem to be ensuring tasks are completed efficiently, the truth is far more complex. Managers are the linchpins of organizational success, balancing operational excellence with people-centric leadership. Their impact extends beyond task management to shaping…
Read MoreWhat’s Next for DEI?
You feel Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are essential to your credit union’s mission and values, but with the political and societal anti-DEI feelings, you may be getting pushback. Some of the population have even demonized the acronym “DEI.” But we are in the “People Helping People” business, and inclusivity is vital to that purpose.…
Read MoreAn Engaged Team is Vital to Member Engagement
An Engaged Team = An Engaged Member In today’s competitive financial landscape, credit unions continuously seek ways to differentiate themselves from traditional banks. One of the most compelling differentiators is the relationship credit unions foster with their members. Member engagement, which goes beyond conventional customer service, is at the heart of this, and its success…
Read MoreA CEO Problem – The Domino Effect of High Turnover at the Teller Line
Often, the only time the C-Suite becomes involved in recruiting is during the search for a strategic leader. This makes sense, but it is also vital that the C-Suite fully appreciate the impact of high turnover lower in the credit union’s hierarchy and approach these challenges strategically. This deeper dive is essential because high turnover,…
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 MoreIs Your Org Structure Top-Heavy?
First, let’s understand the impact of a top-heavy organizational structure on a credit union’s effectiveness, efficiency, and overall performance, which is critical. Here are the risks a top-heavy organization poses: Addressing a top-heavy organizational structure can be a significant challenge for a new CEO. Still, there are several practical steps to streamlining the organization and creating…
Read More10 Reasons to Hire a CMO as the New CEO
Credit union boards seem to default to a CFO or COO as the new CEO. The thinking is sound; credit unions are a business of money (finance) and serving members (operations), which are the two key skill sets of the CFO and COO, respectively. But, in the dynamic business landscape of credit unions, the Chief…
Read MoreFrom an Executive to a Strategist – Changing Perceptions.
One complaint I hear from most CEOs about marketing, lending, and operational executives is, “I need my leadership to be more strategic.” But most executives aren’t sure what that really means, and often, the CEO struggles to explain it. Strategists play a distinct role compared to other executives within an organization. Here are fundamental differences…
Read MoreLeadership Brand – Supercharge Your Career
Have you ever defined your leadership brand? If you haven’t, now is the time. The process is simple but deliberate and does not happen overnight. It is a hero’s journey, so expect multiple opportunities to learn from your mistakes and to rely heavily on allies. Why is Your Brand Journey Important? It Enhances Your Credibility…
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