What to look for in a bank relationship part 1: Choosing a Bank

Some of the most important elements in choosing a bank include institution stability, business services, and available guidance. Here’s a rundown of each of these factors and how each can affect the future of your business. Careful consideration before you choose a bank can save a lot of time and effort down the road.

Stability
First, of course, is choosing a bank that has stability. You want a bank with a reputation of keeping your money safe. There is a lot of volatility in the banking industry now, so research any prospective banking partner, and only keep your money with an FDIC insured institution.

Business Services
A bank is a great place to store funds and get loans, but it can also become an ally, which makes doing business easier for your company. Look for business services that will make your life easier. Banks can help with things like recovering bad checks, getting workers compensation insurance, and providing a line of business credit, so keep an eye out for these options.

Available Guidance
Bank representatives do not have to only fill the roll of banker. They can suggest options you may not have considered and help you achieve business goals. Look for someone who really gets what the business is about and is willing to research and proactively put forward alternative financial strategies.

Looking for a bank with the lowest fees may work in the short term, but if you have to spend more time trying to get in touch with the bank, setting up direct deposits, and solving finance issues on your own, it could actually be more in the long term. You’re better off considering other factors to make the right choice for your business.