Before bank business was conducted on Main Streets, it did take place on benches in Italy in the 15th and 16th centuries.  Conducted by “Lombard Jews” who ran pawn shops because Christians were prohibited from earning money “without working.”  Lombard refers to the northern Italian region of Lombardy. 

Banking venues have come a long way from benches to sturdy, columned fortresses.  Who’s to say that the best way to build a banking relationship isn’t still to engage in some old-fashioned conversation on a bench or even in a comfortable conference room?

People don’t choose a bank because of what it looks like; they choose a bank that has the people they trust, who listen and respect them.  Make it a point to sit down and chat with your best customer this week.