Here's a quick anecdote for you.

We recently moved from a bedroom community to the city. I bank with a large bank for all the conveniences they offer - even though they are expensive. My wife was with a local credit union because they were free and provided a local warmth she appreciated.

She now had the dilemma of switching banks. There was not a credit union nearby. So, she used Yelp and found all the nearby banks. She chose a small one because they offered free checking and other no fee services.

Within 90 days she left that small bank because their service was horrible. She could not bank on Saturdays, weekday hours were not extended as the large brands were, and each teller interaction was slow and not always courteous or respectful.

Hopefully that story proves to be a case study for you. She is representative of many banking customers.

Now, here are some things to consider.

1. Hire a field sales rep.

Have them visit every small-medium business in your community. Build a relationship with the business owners. Create a customized banking solution for all the employees of that business. Maybe offer to provide branded debit cards with the business' logo on it.

Maybe offer discounts on certain closing costs for loans if the employees bank with you?

Consider bringing pastries or other food or drinks to businesses if they have a staff meeting where you can address the employees. Your pastries and short promo talk would break up the monotony of the regular meetings.

Hold community events regularly. Become known as a warm, friendly neighborhood bank.

Do the same approach with the chamber of commerce, rotary, elks, and other organizations in the area.

Basically, take the paradigm that national brand banks are not your direct competition, the credit unions are.

Now, I am not an expert in the banking industry and do not know the rules and regs that might hinder your marketing. But, in addition to what Viktor said about FDIC and several of his other comments, provide over the top service, and position each branch as the neighborhood community bank.

I do provide free consultations to first time callers using the link below. If you would like to set up a 30 minute call, I'd be happy to get more details and provide more ideas.

Best regards,

Kevin McCarthy
www.kevinmccarthy.com

https://clarity.fm/kevinmccarthy/FreeConsult