Pergande’s Path to Banking Success
Nichole Pergande, assistant vice president and human resources officer at Iowa Falls State Bank, believes banking is a great career because of all the opportunities it offers. She appreciates that she gets to help people and businesses achieve their goals while building and advancing her skills. “It is a career that allows you to make a difference while constantly learning something new,” she said.
Pergande started as a teller and advanced to bookkeeping, before being promoted to human resources officer. She believes it is important to build trust with your customers and co-workers. She added, “Success in banking comes from mastering the details and building trust over time. Don’t be afraid to start small, every role teaches you something valuable.”
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
I am proud of my ability to grow within the bank and the relationships I’ve built with customers and co-workers. I started as a teller and advanced to bookkeeping, before being promoted to human resources officer. Building trust with your customers and co-workers is very important both in a banking career and in human relations.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
Be patient and stay open to learning. Success in banking comes from mastering the details and building trust over time. Don’t be afraid to start small, every role teaches you something valuable.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is a great career because it offers real opportunities to grow. You get to help people and businesses reach their financial goals while building skills and advancing in a stable, rewarding field. It is a career that allows you to make a difference while constantly learning something new.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA has peer groups for different departments in banking. It is great having peers in your back pocket for different reasons. Being in human resources, you sometimes have to handle rare-occurring situations, so it is nice to be able to reach out to peers for advice to ensure you are working through situations correctly.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my family and close friends. I have a 19-year-old son and two daughters, ages nine and six. During the summer, you’ll often find us at our favorite place – our camper. When the weather isn’t ideal, I enjoy playing cards, sharing laughs with friends, and getting creative with all kinds of crafting projects.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“Choosing to be positive and having a grateful attitude is going to determine how you’re going to live your life.” -Joel Osteen