My first interview with a customer? With clammy hands.

The first time I set out on an assignment all by myself, I had clammy hands. I had a meeting with a good friend of mine, who is a freelancer in a secondary profession. You want to do everything well, to answer every question satisfactorily. Afterwards, you realise that there is no reason to be afraid. You know that you are getting better every day. And that you can always rely on your colleagues for help.

It feels like home

I have always felt at home in the bank! My mother works for ING since many years so I already had some inside information about working in a bank. After my studies in political science I also studied business economics. I did this to emphasize on the technical aspects of banking, like analyses. Now in my role as a business banker; I have to analyse the specific needs of each and every client and consult him or her with the best advice; while also keeping up to date with all regulations and technical advancements within the industry.

As a business banker for small-scale self-employed entrepreneurs and businesses; I help our clients with advice on all the financial aspects to run their business.

Payment terminals, loans, professional insurance, pensions, and so on. The next step is advising SMEs. However, you can also opt for a role as a loan expert. Or as the manager of a loan team.

How do you build a relationship of trust with a client in a banking world where managing your banking affairs online is becoming more and more matter-of-course?

One learning spurt after another

I am someone who always wants to know everything. To dig deeply in order to understand things. This is quite a challenge in a world like banking, which is continually changing. Technology. Legislation. You are constantly learning more, whether you are a trainee or not. That keeps things interesting.

But you are never thrown to the lions unprepared. You build up your competencies gradually. And Besides this, you can always count on the support of your colleagues.

A relationship of trust

How do you build a relationship of trust with a client in a banking world where managing your banking affairs online is becoming more and more matter-of-course? This is something we are giving a great deal of thought, together with quite a few of our colleagues. With a series of workshops as the first step. This ensures that you are closely involved with the organisation.

Amazed by the people

You are really at the epicentre when it comes to dynamics. On the one hand, you are working at a company that always wants to improve, to whom progress is a priority. On the other hand, this is also what your customers want. And you play a key part in this.

That, in itself, is fantastic. But what really, truly amazed me was the people here. Everyone is different and wants to help you. As a result, you don’t only get to know others; you also learn more about yourself. This is exactly where our strength lies. It gives you an incredible amount of energy.

About Maaike

• Started as Commercial Trainee business banking, more specific as a Business Banker Professional
• Lives in Ninove
• Studied political and social sciences and afterwards business management
• Enjoys doing yoga, reading and loves the sun
• As a vegetarian, she gets excited about fruit and vegetables