Family Guides Cairney in Career, Life
Family has had a big influence on Norita Cairney’s life including how she landed in the banking field. Her sister, who had worked at Shelby County State Bank for more than 10 years at the time, encouraged her to apply for a job at the bank. “I was originally very intimidated by the banking world, but I love a challenge and haven’t looked back since,” she said.
Some of the most important lessons Cairney has learned came from her father, who raised her and her siblings on his own after her mother died. One lesson she applies to her career as a personal banker at SCSB is, if you can be nothing else, be a good person. “A big part of my job is customer service, and I try to apply that principle in my day-to-day interactions as often as I can,” she said.
What drove you to choose a career in banking?
My sister-in-law has worked with SCSB for over 10 years. She suggested I would be a good fit and that I should give it a try. I was originally very intimidated by the banking world, but I love a challenge and haven’t looked back since.
Describe one life experience that taught you a lesson you apply to your banking career.
I lost my mother at a very young age. My dad raised my siblings and I on his own until he remarried 10 years later. Throughout those 10 years, my dad taught me so many important lessons, but one that I can apply to banking is, if you can be nothing else, be a good person. A big part of my job is customer service, and I try to apply that principle in my day-to-day interactions as often as I can.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is generally a great career for anyone looking for growth in their field, as well as great benefits and a competitive wage. More specifically, working at SCSB is a great career because of our core values. Our bank puts “family, service and community” above all else for our customers as well as my fellow employees. Each person at this bank cares about you as an individual and wants to see you excel personally and professionally.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Being able to network with many people I would not necessarily have the chance to speak to is very appealing to me. I want to be able to grow into more of a leadership role at SCSB. I am hoping the IBA will be able to give me some of the tools and connections required to elevate my strengths and provide new ideas to bring into our bank.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
My husband and I have two daughters, a third baby on the way, and two German Shepherds. I love spending time with my family and being outside when the weather is nice. Hopefully watching my Huskers win this year — go Big Red! I also love competing in CrossFit and traveling the world.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“The most difficult thing is the decision to act; the rest is merely tenacity.”
— Amelia Earhart