Van Gilst: Banking with Courage and Compassion
Madi Van Gilst, relationship banker at Leighton State Bank (LSB), has only been in banking for two years. In that time, she has learned about the intricacies of banking to become capable of teaching customers how to manage their finances and make smart financial decisions. She appreciates that banking is so applicable to her personal life as well as her professional one. “Knowing how to make smart financial choices for yourself, and your customers, in the ever-changing financial world is a must,” she said.
Van Gilst trusts in the phrase, “have courage and be kind,” and believes it makes her a better banker. She encourages others to remember to have the courage to try new things because it teaches you how to adapt quickly. At the same time, she wants to remind people that you never know the full extent of what someone else is going through, so be kind. She added, “every customer that walks into the bank brings a different experience, so knowing how to think on your toes is essential in the banking world. During their visit to the bank, you can show you care by listening to them and being helpful.”
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
Since I started in March 2023, I’ve learned so much. What I am most proud of is learning about the different sides of banking. Prior to working at LSB, I worked in different fields, teaching and medical, so I only knew about the basics of banking. Now, I feel knowledgeable as a banker and capable of teaching customers how to manage their banking and make smart financial decisions.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
Go for it! I believe that becoming more financially literate is essential to everyone. Banking is a career that you can do anywhere, and one that there will always be a need for.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is an industry that will support you and teach you the world of finance. It educates you on essential tools you can apply not only in your professional life but personal life as well. Knowing how to make smart financial choices for yourself, and your customers, in the ever-changing financial world is a must.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
I attended two IBA conferences in 2024, NextGen and Deposit Accounts Administration, and I learned so much. IBA has done a wonderful job at providing resources and seminars for not only myself, but my colleagues as well. These conferences have made me a more successful banker and essential part of my team.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I’m often spending time with family and friends, traveling nationally and internationally (13 countries so far), writing music, playing my steel drum, or baking and cooking up something delicious.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
I believe in the phrase, “have courage and be kind.”
It takes courage to do something you’ve never done before, and it doesn’t cost a cent to be kind to one another. When I travel, I like to find something I’ve never done before or travel somewhere new! This gets you out of your comfort zone, and lets you adapt to change and new experiences. I taught English overseas for an extended amount of time, in a place that spoke little to no English (talk about a learning curve). Every customer that walks into the bank brings a different experience, so knowing how to think on your toes is essential in the banking world. Being extra kind to your customer is also important. During their visit to the bank, you can show you care by listening and being helpful.