We used to have friendly bank managers once

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By Dwain Duxson.

We used to have friendly bank managers once - Some of you will remember the times when you had a friendly bank manager to call on. Well, they were mostly friendly. And guess what? They actually came out to your Farm and usually requested a drive around. They would also take time for a cuppa and a scone to make sure that they fully understood your business.

Sayings like "Yep, no worries", she'll be right", we can make that work" were all common. You had a friend and ally who was more likely on your side than the banks. You got to know them personally. You might have even liked them. A few still have these types of bank managers, but only a very few.

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Now let's look at today; now you deal with a department, several people who aren't really connected, and how many times have you sent the same information to each of these people? You only ever deal over the phone; a Farm visit is rare. Many would not have a clue what you do, they judge you on what they see in Xero, MYOB or Agrimaster and ask you what you spend on going out for dinner each year.

There is no way you are going to get a decision quickly, and the above-quoted sayings aren't in their vocabulary anymore. The main word they use now is "no". Is this familiar? Can you remember your previous personalised bank manager/s? How's your relationship with your bank? Reply to dwaind@farmtender.com.au

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