03/26/2026
30 years ago, today. March 26, 1996. That was my first day in lending! I was paid $325/week and not much bonus, and I was glad to have the job. Seems like yesterday, I still remember the office team, the khaki slacks and button downs I wore and the race to the branch each morning because whoever got there first got to pick the radio station for the day! There's a lot of water under that bridge...a lot of wins, a lot of losses and a lot of lessons...
✅ We used the phone back then and took a lot of apps in-person. Now, it's texts, mobile apps, and robots (most of the time). I still call before I text even though I know that's not cool today.
✅ Relationships meant something. Borrowers trusted us and came back over and over and referred their friends & families. Now it's the internet and lowest rates it seems or whoever has the latest software.
✅ My first job out of college lasted 12 years. Then 2008 hit and we shut down. My next job lasted 5 years. Then Linkedin, loyalty and disloyalty was rampant across our industry on both the employee and employer sides.
✅ I gave my heart and soul everywhere I worked, no one can ever question my work ethic. I learned the hard way a few times not to trust everything I was told, no matter the level, or slick talk or promises of a long future with fat comp plans by fast talking "busy" execs.
✅ My trust is harder to earn these days, it takes time. I've known many of you on here going back those three decades. Those close have earned my trust and I theirs. Those "new" relationships are still forming and will take time.
✅ For you "newer and younger" managers, show your directs you care first. Once they know you care and will invest in them, they will run through a wall for you. Put people over results, get out there with them, teach them and help them get the results. You will build something together you both will proud of!
✅ For you long-timers like me, keep grinding, keep leading, keep mentoring and helping the next generation of thrive. One day they, like us will be reflecting on three decades in this amazing industry wondering where in the hell the the time went!
Blessings to you all...If I can ever help, you know how to reach me.
Scott
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