Maximizing Business Growth: How to Leverage Your Community Bank Relationship
In today’s competitive economy, small businesses need all the help they can get, and one of the best ways they can do this is to have a close relationship with their community bank. You and your business need more than just a good banking system—you need a strong financial partner that knows where you’re coming from and what you need. Your community bank understands you and your business, as well as your local market, your clientele, what strategies will work in your environment, and so much more that a larger institution just doesn’t get. In order to help you grow your business in the way you want with the best possible ally, take a look at the following features you can use to leverage your community bank relationship—
Customized Financing Solutions
Your community bank knows that financing your business is not a one-size-fits-all situation. When you bank with a larger chain or institution, this is often what you encounter—cookie-cutter solutions for businesses that are anything but. Your community bank will leave no stone unturned when understanding your business’s financing needs, finding you the best possible custom solutions. These solutions will be tailored for your exact needs and be flexible with their payment options, so you will never have to worry about the stress of hard deadlines or unfeasible payment schedules. Working with your local bank to develop the perfect financing package for your business will help you take care of each and every one of these needs with knowledge and compassion.
Personalized Business and Financial Advice
You and your business are very important clients at your local bank, so when you need business and financial advice, make them your go-to advisor. Not only does your local bank understand your community and the economy in which you conduct business, they also have the knowledge and the scale to focus on you and your needs personally. Your community bank understands the triumphs and challenges your small business has faced, and as such can give you the best advice to help add to your progress—help you know when to expand, when to save, how to invest, and so much more. Don’t settle for any standard, impersonal business advice again.
Local Networking Opportunities
Local banks are well-connected within their communities, and as such have the ability to help clients like you and your business with networking. Your local bank can connect you with other businesses, service providers, and clients that can help you in many aspects of your business. This creates more connections within the community, and also helps to improve the local economy, which in turn helps both you and your local bank. These opportunities are few and far between when working with larger banks and institutions, so seek these valuable partnerships through your community bank now.
Access to Specialized Programs
Small businesses like yours have different needs than larger corporations, and therefore require more specialized and varied financial options. Many local banks will have programs and grants that are a result of partnerships with local organizations or governments that are specifically designed to help small businesses and other clients with their financial needs. These kinds of programs can vary, ranging from low-interest business financing loans to mentorship programs to client connections. Staying up to date with these kinds of programs by keeping in touch with your local bank is a great way to grow your business easily and sustainably.
Your business and your community bank are stronger together. Making the most out of your relationship not only helps your business to grow, but also works to improve your local economy. When it comes to the local businesses that partner with us, 1st Advantage Bank is always here to help in any way we can. In addition to our extensive business banking options, including business checking, savings, and credit accounts, we offer smart and secure financing opportunities that are catered specifically to you and your small business. Whether you are looking to expand your business locations, invest in some new equipment, or need working capital to keep your business running at its best, we are here with customized options for you.
We understand your community because we are your community. For more information, take a look at our small business banking and lending options here. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender