February 2023 - Star of the Month - Ashley Twigg

Our first Star for 2023 is someone who enjoys their job and unfailingly puts in their best effort regardless of the task assigned.  She models honesty, integrity and great moral character in everything she does.  We are excited to share that Morgan Nelson, AVP/Retail Office Manager for the Longview Greggton location has been selected as our January 2023 Star of the Month.

A member of the Austin Bank team since 2008, Morgan has risen through the ranks serving as a teller, teller...

Phishing is when you get emails, texts or calls that seem to be from companies or people you know.  But, they are actually from scammers.  They want you to click on a link or give personal information (like a password) so that they can steal your money or identity, and possibly get access to your computer.

No matter which technique a scammer uses - fake email, text message, voice call, letter, or even someone...

A financial plan is a comprehensive picture of your current finances, future goals and the strategies you have set to achieve those goals.  You can think of it as a roadmap.  And, you can do it on your own, or work alongside a professional to help guide you.

This month’s Star is affectionately referred to as “Ms. Austin Bank Bullard”.  Known for her willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks; ability to build lasting relationships with her customers and coworkers; and her quick wit, she is definitely a Star.  We are proud to introduce you to Luan Smith, Loan Assistant and our October Star of the Month.

Luan has been a part of the team in Bullard since coming to work for the Bookkeeping department of First...

(reposted from American Bankers Association - Protect the Elderly from Financial Exploitation | American Bankers Association (aba.com)

You, or someone you know, could become the victim of a growing crime in America — financial abuse of older Americans.  Seniors are increasingly becoming targets for financial abuse.  As people over 50 years old control over 70 percent of the nation's wealth, fraudsters are using new tactics to take advantage of retiring...

When we think of customer service, it is often in reference to how we treat the people who walk into our Bank for help with their financial needs.  However, treating colleagues with the same level of service expected for customers goes a long way to enhance the culture inside the Bank.  This is the very reason our September Star was nominated by one of her ‘customers’.  We are proud to recognize Laura Valerio, Bookkeeping Clerk, as our Star of the Month for September.

Customer...

As students across our community have started back to school, thoughts may be turning to a little further down the road.  What happens when that student is ready to go to college?  Will they have the funds to pursue the education they desire?

Saving for college or higher education is important.  It can also be something that seems intimidating or prohibitive.  However, there are some key strategies you can implement now to help you along this journey.

When...

A quick Google search will tell you the top qualities of a great call center representative.  Though the number of those qualities ranges anywhere from six to ten (or more) depending on whose list you are looking at, a few of those qualities are noted repeatedly.  Our August Star displays each of these attributes in her day-to-day duties.  It is for these, as well as her excellent treatment of our Austin Bank customers and team members, that we are proud to announce Deborah Moore,...

How are you doing on those financial New Year’s resolutions?  Are you making progress?  Have they fallen by the wayside?  Has life just gotten in the way?

While most people may really focus on making changes to your personal finance habits at the start of a new year, it is never a bad time to take a moment and assess where you are, regain control (if needed) or start a new budget or savings plan.  The tips below can help you get and stay financially fit.

Dedication is “an exceedingly strong feeling of loyalty and support for someone or something.”  Any successful business must have dedicated employees who are concerned with the overall good of the company and understand what is best for everyone.  Then, go out and strive to make that happen daily.  This dedication is a required characteristic of those recognized as Austin Bank Stars.  Repeatedly mentioned throughout this month’s Star nomination were...