Relationship-Based Lending vs Transactional-Based Lending

Today, where digital interactions often overshadow personal connections, it's crucial for businesses, especially those in sectors perceived as impersonal (like finance), to remember the value of being human. At The UnBankers, we've taken this to heart, understanding that behind every transaction, there's a person with a unique story, hobbies, passions, and dreams. Embracing our humanity and building genuine connections not only enriches our professional relationships but also transforms our work environment into a more enjoyable and fulfilling space.

As an example, “Gary”, a vivid persona that many might find relatable. Gary is an outdoor enthusiast, a golfer, dart player, and someone who enjoys bourbon, dark ales, dark chocolate, good doughnuts, and is an avid follower of college baseball, cheering on his son from the stands. He has a passion for Mustangs, collects beer cans, coins, and meticulously plans bucket list trips to golf courses and national parks. Above all, Gary is a family man – a husband, father, brother, uncle, and son, not to mention a friend to many.

Gary's profile tells us a lot more than just his preferences and hobbies; it reveals a life filled with experiences, responsibilities, and dreams. It's this richness of life that we often miss when we focus solely on the transactional aspects of business. By recognizing the individuality of each person we work with, we pave the way for more meaningful and enjoyable collaborations.

The Power of Authentic Connections

Being authentic means sharing a glimpse of ourselves, our true selves, with others. This vulnerability is powerful; it serves as an invitation for others to do the same, fostering a culture of trust and openness. At The UnBankers, we encourage our team to bring their whole selves to work, not just the professional facade often worn like armor in the corporate world. This approach has not only brought us closer as a team but has also resonated with our clients, who appreciate the sincerity and genuine interest in their lives beyond just their financial needs. We don’t want to come across ‘salesy’ here, but The UnBankers embrace Relationship-based Lending, and not Transactional-based Lending, like most banks.

From Transactions to Relationships

The finance industry, with its complex terminology and often impersonal processes, can seem daunting to many. By focusing on building relationships rather than merely completing transactions, we can demystify finance and make it more accessible. For someone like Gary, who juggles various roles and interests, working with a financial firm that sees him as a person, not just a client, can make all the difference. It's about understanding that his business’ financial goals are not just about numbers on a page; they're about securing a future for his family, ensuring his son can pursue his dreams, and maybe even adding a few more stops to those bucket list golf trips.

Making Work More Fun

When we know who we're working with, work becomes more than just a task to be completed; it becomes a collaborative effort towards a common goal. Knowing Gary’s interests, for example, can transform a standard meeting into an engaging conversation, where discussions of financial strategies are interspersed with talks of the latest great bourbon or the outcome of a recent baseball game. This doesn't just make work more enjoyable; it also fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that is invaluable in any business relationship.

Embracing Our Humanity

In an industry that's revolutionizing itself to be faster and more efficient (like The UnBankers) it's essential not to lose sight of the human element. Efficiency should never come at the cost of empathy and connection. By embracing our humanity, we remind ourselves and others that finance is ultimately about helping people achieve the dreams they have for their business, successfully growing it, or planning for the future.

So to finish up, the journey towards making finance more personal and less transactional starts with us. By being authentic, showing genuine interest in the people we work with, and building real connections, we can transform the industry one relationship at a time. For Gary, and for countless others like him, it's not just about finding a financial solution. It's about finding a partner who understands his dreams, challenges, and aspirations. At The UnBankers, we're proud to be that partner, proving that when we embrace being human, work isn't just more fun; it's more meaningful, too.