Your skills can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

A friend of mine, who worked for Citizens, suggested I look into joining the company as a manager. Because I have a fashion degree and a background in hospitality and retail, I didn’t think I’d be a fit for Citizens. But I met with the Branch Manager anyway, and it was during that interaction I learned my skills in sales, colleague engagement and multi-generational training were highly transferable. That moment highlighted for me how valuable skill sets are, and how being open-minded can allow you to apply relevant skills to any opportunity. 

Stay committed to curiosity & change your plans as needed.

It was when I moved from Banker to Retail Operations Advisor that I knew I wanted to make a change. I realized this during my time as a Green Ambassador during the HSBC conversion. I missed working collaboratively with other teams and being part of a colleague’s success story, creating those moments that matter.

I discussed my desire to shift roles with my manager, and together we came up with a game plan. We settled on exploring what it would take for me to become a training facilitator. I started applying for facilitator roles and even got a few interviews. Although I didn’t get the position, I gained a mentor who saw my passion, potential, and areas of opportunity. This mentor challenged me to take additional courses to build my skills and introduced me to other facilitators.

I did job shadowing with these facilitators and even conducted a training for new-to-bank Business Relationship Managers about the different retail products offered. After a few months of mentorship and exploring various roles in learning and development, I realized that being a facilitator wasn't what I wanted. I needed to be out in the branches and wanted to make a difference in the lives of our colleagues as well as the customers who trust us.

My mentor continued to support me as I reflected on my true interests and how I could make an impact. Then, the role of Retail Operations Advisor (ROA) became available. I spoke to the current ROA and discovered that this was where I belonged. I applied and have found the role incredibly fulfilling for the past 2.5 years.

I love working with colleagues. Being adaptable allows us to understand how everyone contributes to the big picture.

Every day I learn something new about myself, Citizens, and the roles we all play in making everything work. It's amazing how much talent and knowledge our colleagues have to share. I am very much looking forward to learning from others so I can shape my own path towards whatever the future holds. We are not defined by one thing and can shift and grow as our interests change. Our leaders want the best for us and challenge us! When it comes to learning, I prefer learning through experiences. On-the-job training is my favorite, as you get to make guided mistakes and learn how to correct them. Guided learnings also help because I can ask questions as they arise, allowing for more in-depth conversations on topics of interest. I can't identify a time when I had a stronger emphasis on learning. I have an explorer's mind and often dive into rabbit holes to learn something new. I can't see a Broadway show and leave without asking myself ‘How did they pull off that effect?’ and then research how it was done. Learning new things makes me feel alive. It keeps life interesting. If I knew everything, why even bother trying?

If you ever question your choices or suitability for a role, you're likely pushing yourself toward growth. Trust yourself, embrace mistakes as they lead to development, and don't hesitate to ask for help.

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?