Amy Lampe is "Business as Usual" as 1st National Bank’s Market President

*note: This interview was conducted prior to the recent coronavirus conditions. While it’s not necessarily business as usual right now, Osceola banks are working together to assure customers continue to have the services they need- Amy Lampe

Although 1st National Bank’s new Market President, Amy Lampe, looks forward to meeting some people she may not know, she said it will be business as usual, in her new position. Having completed 32 years in various positions with the bank, Amy says the day-to-day and year-to-year activities are plenty exciting. She says it’s important to continue focusing on the changing needs of the customers and the community, while being mindful of the ongoing challenge to provide timely and meaningful products and services.

In identifying her goals, Amy wants the bank’s staff to be a resource that provides value to a person’s situation. It’s not just about processing normal transactions, “We hope to be contacted when people have financial questions, and we will work through those questions together.”

Another valuable service Amy described is FNB University (www.fnb247.com/education-center), which offers self-directed courses on budgeting, building credit history and a variety of other topics for customers and non-customers. She said 1st National Bank’s Wealth Management team is a great resource and the loan staff is always willing to listen.

Like any industry, banking and its employees need to change with the times. According to Lampe, innovations are constant in online banking, as customers want the ability to perform their own transactions. For employees, Amy hopes they feel properly trained and supported to succeed in their jobs. Encouragement to learn new skills is important and employees should know they are appreciated and make a difference for customers, the business and their families.

According to Amy, strong communication is key and worth the effort to help keep employees engaged. The persistent challenge is to make sure everyone is aware of overall goals, department happenings and new situations. Being engaged in the community is another key to  success, and employees are encouraged to be involved with community groups in which they have an interest and to seek leadership roles, “As residents, we see our customers in church, at the grocery store or at ball games and other events,” she said.

There are many choices in the banking industry; marketing and promoting is constant and important. Of course, 1st National financially supports local organizations and events, but they also reach customers/potential customers through Facebook, LinkedIn, commercials on Channel 13 and advertising in local newspapers. Amy said social media is a great way to get news out fast, while print provides a tangible reminder, both methods seem to reach all types and ages of customers. Personal contact is important, and periodically, they send letters directly to customers. Early in the fall, employees ‘popped into’ businesses with new contact information, hot chocolate and popcorn treats.

In addressing their commitment to supporting local events through their OCMS membership, Amy said 1st National appreciates the opportunity to network with other businesses whether it be through the monthly coffees or by serving on committees together.  “With a strong Chamber, the community benefits and therefore our business benefits.”