Secrets for Financial Career Success From Powerful Women in Banking

In the evolving bank world, rising professionals need more than technical expertise to thrive. American Banker reporter Frank Gargano compiled insights from industry leaders to guide next-gen female bankers on the importance of career skills that include emotional intelligence, adaptability, and continuous learning. 

Emotional Intelligence & Relationship-Building: Lessons from Successful Female Bankers 

As Jennifer Piepszak, co-CEO at JPMorgan Chase, explains, emotional intelligence (EQ) is what distinguishes leaders from managers. In today’s banking environment, managing people and fostering client relationships requires more than technical know-how. Piepszak advises professionals to stay curious about their colleagues and clients, emphasizing the power of personal connections to create inclusive, high-performing workplaces. 

Similarly, Tracy Kerrins of Wells Fargo highlights communication skills, underscoring that while technology plays an increasing role in banking, the ability to connect with people remains crucial. She notes that simplifying complex information and personalizing interactions are essential leadership qualities. 

Female Banking Leaders Share Insights on Cultivating Curiosity 

Many banking leaders agree that curiosity is a key trait for success. Holly O’Neill from Bank of America encourages professionals to explore data and technology while maintaining a personal touch. Wendy Stewart, also from Bank of America, emphasizes curiosity, grit, and analytical skills as foundational traits for working with clients and securing new business. 

Stacey Friedman of JPMorgan Chase and Tammy LoCascio of First Horizon both stress the importance of continuous learning. Friedman points out that the rapid evolution of banking requires professionals to stay adaptable. LoCascio advises rising bankers to embrace horizontal growth, encouraging them to learn from new roles across different areas of the business. 

Women in Leadership Perspective: Developing Core Skills and Embracing Technology 

While emotional intelligence and curiosity are critical, technical skills remain indispensable. Leaders such as Gunjan Kedia of U.S. Bancorp advocate for the development of a broad skill set, which includes expertise in areas like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and communication. As Kedia notes, the ability to continuously practice and refine skills enables professionals to seize career opportunities when they arise. 

Jennifer Smith of Zions Bancorporation highlights the increasing necessity of technology fluency, mentioning that it has never been easier to acquire these skills through online training programs. Amy Brady of KeyBank similarly stresses the need for technological adaptability, cautioning that what it takes to succeed today may look entirely different in the future. 

Key Takeaways from Female Bankers: Balancing Customer Focus with Business Acumen

A deep understanding of both customer needs and banking economics is a rare but valuable skill set, according to Beth Johnson of Citizens Bank. She advises that success in banking comes from balancing customer focus with a keen grasp of how banks make money. This dual focus is echoed by Bridgit Chayt of Fifth Third, who emphasizes the need to blend experience with innovation to stay ahead in the competitive landscape of financial services. 

Ultimately, the advice from these leaders is clear: A successful career in banking requires a blend of emotional intelligence, curiosity, adaptability, and continuous learning. By building strong relationships, honing technical skills, and remaining open to new opportunities, rising professionals can navigate the industry’s challenges and thrive in their careers. 

The full article Skills for success from The Most Powerful Women in Banking can be found at the American Banker.