I'm a Broadway Banker—Charles Houston describes a day in the life of a Commercial Lender and shares strategies for starting a new job while remote.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought on many changes to our work routines. As meetings went virtual, work schedules changed and job responsibilities shifted, some professionals started searching for new careers and job opportunities to meet their professional goals and work-life balance. Charles Houston was one of those professionals that started a new job last year, right in the middle of a pandemic. As Broadway Bank’s new Vice President and Commercial Lender, Charles brought his years of banking experience and client relations to Broadway’s Commercial Lending team to grow the Bank’s network and local services.
But his first day with Broadway Bank was very different from any of his previous first days. The hallways were empty, and the orientation process became a who’s who on the computer monitor. However, Charles said he experienced a welcoming environment of fist bumps and air hive fives from the few face masked individuals actually in the office.
Just nine months into his new role, Charles is already making a positive impact on his team, community and his clients' portfolios by giving them the creative solutions to meet their financial needs.
Charles shares his advice what can lead to a good first impression in a new job and how to exceed expectations in your role.
What is a typical day like for you?
I am absolutely a ‘morning person’ and usually start my day with some journaling, a podcast and a much-needed cup of coffee. No day is ever the same, so taking that time for myself helps me prepare for what may come at me. I love my role at Broadway Bank because I can create opportunities to build new relationships as well as be an advisor to customers seeking advice.
Some days, I spend time studying internal reports, preparing financial recommendations for clients and visiting with customers to understand their financial needs. My role involves researching industry trends and working closely with our internal team to develop financial solutions and value add opportunities. Other days, I am out in the community networking and finding ways to engage with others. Each day comes with unique conversations and challenges to evaluate.
What is your favorite part of your role at Broadway Bank?
Helping people!
My professional journey began as an Auditor for an insurance company and transitioned in a Financial Analyst for a software company. Those roles focused on the accounting side of the office, but I realized I wanted more customer interaction. My passion is helping others succeed, personally and professionally. The banking industry allows me to connect with individuals and customers on a personal level, building relationships and adding value.
I have grown to understand the responsibility and privilege I have as a Broadway Banker. Our customers trust us with their business and in return, I strive to make their goals a reality. Whether an entrepreneur is requesting an SBA loan to start a business, or an established company is looking for financing to purchase assets, I see each client’s needs individually and want to help them succeed. Building upon those relationships and understanding how I may add value are highlights of my role.
Being around people is one of the ways I recharge so once we can gather again, I am really looking forward to going out and enjoying a gala night!
Tell us something you’ve learned about Broadway Bank that you didn’t know before working here?
During the pandemic Broadway Bank initiated a flexible workforce model that allows employees to work from home and in the office time. During my onboarding and first few weeks, many of my meetings with team members and management were sitting half a room apart or over a computer screen. Regardless of the circumstance or IT difficulties, I could feel that everyone took pride in being a Broadway Banker and wanted to see me succeed.
Each person took the time to genuinely welcome me, get to know me, and tell me about what they enjoyed most about being at Broadway. I had heard how great and welcoming the team was and was happy to see that be a reality.
Any advice for professionals that are starting new jobs this year?
Give yourself some grace. It has been a hard year and a half for many working professionals, juggling family responsibilities along with historical events happening in our communities. As a society, we are facing the hard facts of race relations and political division, on top of a pandemic that is still taking a toll on us mentally and physically. Making a leap into a new professional journey is exciting, nonetheless, and should be celebrated. Here are my four pieces of advice I have for new employees:
- Make an extended effort to get to know those around you to build relationships, not feel isolated if you are working remotely, and get comfortable asking questions.
- Give yourself time to learn systems and processes. Everything is new and takes time to learn.
- Listen to your inner hype man. People believed in you enough to reward your efforts and abilities with the opportunity at hand. Even when doubt creeps in, know you are worth it and deserve to be here.
- You chose to take a risk and make a move. Enjoy it! Celebrate the small wins and cherish the ride.
About Broadway Bank Commercial Lending
Broadway Bank’s Commercial Lending team has extensive experience with providing credit solutions to firms with larger credit needs in many different industries. We understand the complex financial issues that arise with a growing company, and we are ready to work with you to solve all your business needs. Contact our team of experts today and learn more.
Looking for your forever career? Check out Broadway Bank’s exciting career opportunities on our Careers page. We are always eager to meet great talent.