ERIN NORRIS
BRITISH COLUMBIA – Employees who take advantage of company resources and mentorship opportunities are better able to visualize their future within an organization—and that has a positive impact personally, professionally and organizationally. Coastal Community Credit Union’s Erin Norris talked to us about navigat-ing her own career pathway.
Where did you start your career?
After starting work in the restaurant sector, I soon found a position as a customer service representative with a local financial organization. I knew nothing about banking, but I soon realized I enjoyed helping people reach their financial goals.
How did you end up at Coastal Community?
I wanted more responsibility than my first job offered. I came across an interesting job posting at Coastal Community and the rest is history! I started as a Member Service Representative in Nanaimo and within a few years achieved my goal of becoming a Senior Account Manager. That led to taking on Assistant Manager roles in Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Hammond Bay. My experience opened the door to a temporary Branch Manager position at Hammond Bay. I jumped at the chance to continue my journey with Coastal Community, and my new position is now permanent!
Do you have any tips to pass along to others starting their own career?
Yes! I’m always looking to hone my skills and improve. For example, in 2016 I started working towards my Accredited Consumer Residential Mortgage Lender designation through CCCU/Dalhousie. This is not required, but I knew all the coursework would make me a stronger lend-er and help me to stand out.
My next tip is to take advantage of your company resources and education opportunities. I took part in Coastal Community’s internal leadership training program and the first ever Management Training Program through Vancouver Island University.
How important is networking?
It’s critical. I’m a part of the Coastal Young Leaders Network and attend the Leadership conference each year. People are sometimes so focused on the external networking piece that sometimes they forget that a big part of business development is internal. Make sure you network with your peers and tap into those resources.
Erin Norris is Branch Manager at Coastal Community’s Hammond Bay location. If you have any questions about
your financial health, please call Coastal Community at 1-888-741-1010.
