September 2008 Newsletter

Chamber Chatter
Editors: Claudia Machell and G. Steven Bray
 
Calendar
New Dates!
 
9/17 Networking Luncheon
Topic: Beating the Energy Crisis
Where: Balcones Country Club
Time: 11:45 to 1:15
Cost: Members $15
Guests $20
The high cost of energy is affecting everyone's wallets. Chris Lackey is going to present real solutions to lower your fuel bills by conserving electricity, water, and fuel. He'll also show how the rising cost of one affects the costs of the others.
 
10/15 Network Nites
Where: Baby Acapulco (Gateway)
Time: 5:30 to 7:30
Cost: Free munchies
Cash bar


 
Chair's Corner
G. Steven Bray
Chair-Elect
 
We've Changed

First, I want to remind you that we're moving to a one-meeting-a-month format. We will alternate between events. In odd months (like September) we will host our Networking Luncheon at Balcones Country Club.
In even months (like October) we will host Network Nites at Baby Acapulcos.

The primary motivation for this change is to increase networking opportunities. The Board feels that by focusing on one networking meeting each month we can significantly increase turn-out, which increases your chances for business success.

"One Guest a Month" Program
 
One of the primary reasons we condensed our meeting schedule is to improve guest turn-out. To that end, I am adopting the "One Guest a Month" program. Expect a phone call from me before the luncheon. In a very friendly way I will ask you, "Who's your guest?" (I have this visual imagine of the old lady in the Wendy's commercial asking, "Where's the beef?"). Start thinking now. It's just one guest - one person whom you think might like a good meal and friendly company.
Welcome!
Our New Members
Non-profit Members
Williamson County Republican Party
Williamson County Republican Party
Bill Fairbrother
512-863-8481
Bill.Fairbrother@GOPUSA.com
 
 
Member Spotlight
Carol Roberson
  IronStone Bank

How long have you been in business?
I have been in the banking industry for 28 years, since May 1980.

What exactly do you do?
As Financial Services Manager for IronStone Bank, my primary role is to develop relationships with individuals, professionals and business owners so they can achieve their long-term financial goals. Of course, this means providing comprehensive financial products along with the exceptional service they expect and deserve from their bank.

My duties also include helping our associates learn, grow and develop in their roles. At IronStone, we have a great team of bankers. We look forward each day to strengthening existing partnerships and building new ones with our customers. We always want to ensure that our clients are served in a highly professional manner and receive the highest level of service.

How long have you been in Austin? Would you like to share where you lived before?
I previously lived in Atlanta and moved to Austin in June 1997, and love it!

Does your business offer any unique products or services?
IronStone Bank focuses on building longstanding financial relationships with individuals, small to mid-sized businesses, professionals and the medical community. We provide a full array of personal banking services, including checking and deposit accounts, loans, leases and mortgages, in addition to our standout business and commercial loan products.

IronStone has a tremendous reputation as a company that puts its customers first, and we deliver. We have four offices in Austin and 60 branches in 12 states across the country.

Our parent, First Citizens BancShares, is the second largest family controlled financial services company in the nation. As a result, IronStone has the unique ability to take a long-term approach to business. We are recognized for our strength, stability and attention to the needs of our customers.

What do others NOT know about you and/or your business that you would like to share?
Although I have been in banking for 28 years, I have just celebrated five years with Ironstone Bank.  I am a graduate of Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi. I received my bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management.

Have you or your business received any awards or certifications? Any special accomplishments?

I consider developing employees who have moved into management or other higher levels in their careers among my biggest accomplishments.

Do you have a website?
ironstonebank.com

What is your location? How would readers find you?
I am located at the IronStone Bank branch located at 11149 Research Blvd. Ste 150, in Austin. People who are looking for a great bank are welcome to stop by or call me at 512.514.9563 if they have questions about their finances or just want to know about the services we can provide.

If you could give advice to those just starting out in their careers, what would you say?
Learn everything you can about your job and industry. Learn what others do and how they do it. Stay focused on gaining experience as this is the key to success that can move you to the next level in your career.

What is the best advice you've ever received?
I had one of my district managers tell me one day that if I do not dedicate any time and effort into managing your staff through coaching, training and development, then you should not expect any dedication of time or efforts from them.

If you didn't have this job, what would you be doing instead?
I have always wanted to work with underprivileged individuals to help guide, train and develop them, to assist them into the working society.

How can readers contact you?
My phone number is 512-514-9563. My e-mail address is carol.roberson@ironstone.com.

 

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