Wellik: More to Banking Than Deposits and Loans
Sara Wellik believes there’s more to banking than deposits and loans. As a banker, she gets to play a pivotal role in helping customers achieve their financial goals, which is something she takes great pride in. “Bankers become a trusted friend in so many lives, and I am so honored that customers come to me for more than just banking needs.
Today, Wellik is a vice president at Farmers Trust & Savings Bank in Britt. To anyone considering a career in banking, she says, “There is something for anyone and everyone in banking. … There are positions in IT for those interested in IT, compliance for those interested in regulations, bookkeeping for those interested in numbers and so much more.”
What is your favorite thing about working in the banking industry and why?
Helping customers! Working at a bank goes far beyond deposits and loans, bankers become a trusted friend in so many lives, and I am so honored that customers come to me for more than just banking needs.
Describe one life experience that taught you a lesson that you apply to your banking career.
In college, I was president of Sigma Alpha, a professional women’s agriculture sorority at Iowa State. In this position I was faced with many leadership challenges where I learned the importance of communication, accountability, problem solving, confidence, decision making and so much more. I have applied what I learned in that position more in my career than I ever thought I would. I made professional relationships through that group that I would have never been able to develop elsewhere.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Careers in banking are endless! There is something for anyone and everyone in banking. Yes, you can be a lender or a part of the frontline staff, but there are positions in IT for those interested in IT, compliance for those interested in regulations, bookkeeping for those interested in numbers and so much more!
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Getting involved with the IBA has expanded my knowledge and has helped me make connections with so many other bankers that are full of knowledge. I have created friendships through the different meetings and schools I have been a part of. These people become friends that I reach out to if I am wondering how their bank might handle a similar situation that I am currently puzzled with. The IBA is also a great resource for any questions about banking. Recently, I have talked to a representative of the compliance department, in the past I have worked with someone in the legal department. Basically, if you are stuck on what to do, or how to handle something, call the IBA!
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
Be a mom, wife and farm wife! I have one little guy at home and am expecting our second little one in October. My husband and I rural crop farm and have a few head of cattle to keep ourselves busy. Between raising farm kids and being married to a farmer, that is where I spend the majority of my free time and nothing brings me more joy!
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
When you live with grace and gratitude, happiness enters your life.
Treat others the way you want to be treated — the Golden Rule of life I was taught back in Elementary School.