Heitland Leans on Extroverted Advantage
Barbara Heitland is a self-proclaimed extrovert. It’s a trait she says has helped her succeed in her banking career. “Having the ability to know my customers’ patterns and have that personal connection with them allows me to go the extra mile in protecting them, their finances and most importantly their well-being,” she said.
Heitland is an assistant retail manager and personal banker at Iowa Falls State Bank. She says being able to adapt to new challenges is important as a banker. “In a world where everything is constantly evolving — sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse — it is important to be flexible, open-minded and quick to adapt to new situations while still maintaining a high standard of due diligence and patience.”
What drove you to choose a career in banking?
We all know that life can throw curve-balls that make you do a 180 but, thankfully, my 180 led me to a career that allows me to showcase and utilize my strengths and passions. As an extrovert, getting to create strong connections and lifelong relationships with customers allows me to excel at my job. Having the ability to know my customers’ patterns and have that personal connection with them allows me to go the extra mile in protecting them, their finances and most importantly their well-being.
What is one lesson working in the banking industry has taught you, and how do you apply it to your everyday life?
One crucial lesson I’ve learned from working in the banking industry is the importance of adapting in the face of change and challenges while having grace and patience. In a world where everything is constantly evolving — sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse — it is important to be flexible, open-minded and quick to adapt to new situations while still maintaining a high standard of due diligence and patience.
I apply this lesson to my everyday life by embracing change and challenges with a positive attitude. Whether it is adjusting to new circumstances, facing unexpected obstacles or pursuing personal growth opportunities, I approach each situation with resilience and a willingness to learn and adapt. This mindset not only helps me navigate professional challenges effectively but also enables me to tackle life’s uncertainties with confidence and determination. By remaining adaptable and resilient, I can confidently face whatever comes my way and continue to grow both personally and professionally.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking has opened a new world of opportunities for me. I get to be a problem-solver, adviser and an advocate all while guiding customers to their goals and building strong community relationships along the way.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The Iowa Bankers Association has helped me grow both professionally and personally. Being able to connect with other bankers, in both smaller and larger banks has helped me gain knowledge, confidence and, most importantly, has allowed me to develop meaningful and lasting relationships. By attending networking and leadership seminars, I am able to bring back valuable insight to share with my team — fostering a better, more efficient workplace with our main goal being providing our customers with a pleasant experience consisting of ease and understanding.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
During my free time, you will find me spending time with my husband, Kevin, our daughters and our grandchildren. I enjoy baking and attending our grandchildren’s activities.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“To succeed in life, you need three things — a backbone, a wishbone and a funny bone.”
— Reba McEntire