Understanding the Role of Your Commercial Banker

Selecting the best commercial banking partner for your business is an important decision. You want to choose a bank that can help you make the most of growth opportunities and, even more importantly, successfully navigate times when there are economic headwinds. As you review your company’s financial position, there are many ways your banker can help you achieve your goals.

Here are a few questions to ask and consider when thinking about your banking partnership.

• Do you know your debt capacity? Economic slowdowns can push companies into uncomfortable situations or create transformational opportunities. Your banker should be leading these discussions and walking you through your options.
• Do you know who approves your deal? Establishing relationships with executives early on may make future deal changes easier and will enable you to ask questions about how your bank might approach a change in your company’s performance. Your banker should encourage and foster these important relationships.
• Is your banking relationship based on an aggressive pricing, loose credit structure, or a long-term mutual relationship? As your business changes from year to year, so can your banking terms and requirements. Ask your trusted advisors about the reputation of your current or potential bank partner, particularly in times of stress or challenge. Your banking partner should be able to help you prepare for the risks and opportunities associated with most situations so you can make the right decisions at the right times.

Whether you’re considering changing banks or want to prepare for the upcoming year with your current partners, asking these questions will help you elevate the relationship you have with your banker and better understand the role they can – and should – play in your company’s long-term success.