Her Story
About Erica
I've been in the banking and finance industry for about two and a half years now, where I help support small business brick and mortar businesses and brand new entities to be formed. But before getting into banking, I was an executive chef for over 20 years at a mom-and-pop eatery located in the town that I grew up in, where we specialized in scratch-made Italian food. For my birthday, I decided to do a pivot, and instead of running a small business, I decided to help small businesses instead. To make this transition into banking, I went through the bank's training programs, and I get all of my certifications through the bank. I continue to study and hope to pass the tests and continue to grow in my field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Erica
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would definitely say the drive and uniqueness of my family. My family has been the foundation that has pushed me forward and given me the strength to make bold career changes and continue growing in my field.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to never stop asking questions and don't be afraid to ask why. I would say you should always ask one more question, even if you feel like the conversation is over. Just ask one more, because sometimes you can get the most out of the final thought. That extra question can reveal insights you might have otherwise missed.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the banking and finance industry is that you are not just a number. Your knowledge is power. You do know everything. Your experiences have gotten you here, and you do know everything. Trust in what you've learned and the path that brought you to where you are today.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I would say the biggest challenges in my field right now would be the way of the world at this time. Dealing with people's financials is the most important thing to them, and everybody wants to make sure that financially, they are always secured for at least themselves, their family, or their loved ones, and their businesses too for that matter. The current state of the world creates unique pressures when you're working with what matters most to people.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are being vulnerable and being transparent. I would say believing in what you're doing is crucial, because if you can't put your name on it, are you actually proud to do it? I believe in standing behind my work with authenticity and integrity.
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