Finding the Perfect Career Fit

At Citizens, we recognize everyone’s career journey is unique. We encourage colleagues to follow their interests and curiosity to explore new opportunities within Citizens when they’re ready for the next chapter. With programs, upskilling and networking opportunities, advice and guidance, you can build the career you want with us. In 2023, almost 30% of colleagues accepted new roles internally.

I’ve spent my professional career really working for two companies; Two very different companies.

The first was with a national clothing retailer. What started out as a part-time job in high-school and college eventually turned into a full-time career as a staffing and operations supervisor, then store manager.

I had great success, but the demands of retail were too much for me; I was ready to make a change.

I never expected that change would take me from a career in apparel to financial services.

But it was actually a woman I met at the gym who put me on that path. She worked in sales at Citizens and thought that would be a great career for me.

I was interested in sales, but to be honest, I really didn’t have any sales experience. In fact, one of the things I struggled with at my previous position was selling credit cards.

But when a position opened up at Citizens for a home equity loan processor, I thought that my experience would make me a … no pun intended … good fit.

The woman made a referral and I got the job.

That position was one of the best career moves I could make.

It would provide a starting point for me to get into the company and eventually transition into sales.

From the beginning, I made it clear that this was my plan, telling every manager in sales and operations in my building about my goals.

But as much as I wanted that for myself, I knew I couldn’t just jump into it.

My managers knew that I had really good customer service and relationship-building skills; it was just a matter of having solid comprehension of the products and how everything worked. The loan processor position would provide that opportunity. And more importantly, it would also give me a chance to do something I was eager to do: prove myself.

I didn’t miss that opportunity.

In no time at all, I had achieved some pretty big accomplishments, including being named Processor of the Year.

I spent about three years in that position and worked harder than I ever have. I don’t think I would have had the success that I’ve had in my career at Citizens if it weren’t for the base of knowledge I accumulated in that position.

When they finally moved me into a sales position, I didn’t do as well as I had hoped … at first. Sales was so new to me and I actually felt overwhelmed.

My managers, who knew my strengths, work ethic, and goals, were so supportive, actually creating a role for me as a home loan originator. In this position, I work with customers who have submitted home equity loan applications in the branches to answer their questions and guide them through completing the process.

It’s crazy busy, but I absolutely love it! It’s just so great to talk to customers and to help them take the next step.

But even though I love my job, it’s still just the start. I have very high expectations of myself and am constantly looking for ways to be my best self. I used to be a bodybuilder and I think that’s where it comes from.

I definitely want to learn more and move up in my career. My sales manager has always supported me and I know if the right opportunity presents itself, I would have no problem going to him and asking for his input.

I couldn’t ask for a better manager or more helpful colleagues.

Overall, it’s just a really supportive environment. I have a three-year-old, and with COVID, I have to care for her at home. Citizens has just been so supportive with that, giving me the work/life flexibility I need.

It’s just a great place to work with a great culture; it’s the perfect fit.

Read more stories showcasing the unique paths our colleagues have taken to achieve career success.

Are you looking to continue your career journey with a company made ready to support your unique career aspirations?