Small businesses have more banking options than ever. The hard part is knowing which tools will help your unique business, and then finding a real person to explain them clearly. When you call Oak Bank in Fitchburg, someone will actually pick up the phone. You won’t start with a phone menu or be greeted by an AI agent. You’ll start with a real person.
“When we opened Oak Bank in 2000, one feature we implemented was the Director of First Impressions, or DOFI,” says Bob Gorsuch, executive chairman and founder. “It was and still is that person’s first responsibility to be sure guests are welcomed and directed to a person to take care of their needs, whatever is necessary to make the visitor or client totally satisfied.” The idea is simple but rare in today’s banking landscape. Real conversations lead to better service.
Jim McNulty, senior vice president of business banking, says the team uses digital tools every day, yet they know when it is time to pick up the phone or meet in person. “We deal with people’s money, their businesses, their families and their livelihoods. When something is truly important and emotional, a digital conversation just will not do,” he says. “Face to face is absolutely necessary.”
Clients notice. “I absolutely believe in Oak Bank’s motto, ‘You can’t be the best if you’re only the same,’” says Megan Ryan Tucker, founder of Dragonfly Hot Yoga, Barre, and Fitness. Her praise of Linda Zimdars, senior vice president of business banking, is effusive. “Linda and the team are family. During the pandemic, having her there to talk me through the dark days was a lifeline. She also celebrates our wins because she truly cares about me, our staff, our clients and my family.” Another Madison entrepreneur puts it this way: “Linda is a ‘one-woman powerhouse’ when it comes to solving problems and executing strategies to help me build and sustain my company. She is smart, articulate, organized and adds a touch of class to every situation.”
That familiarity can also be the best defense against fraud. Stephanie East, assistant vice president of treasury management, recalls a recent attempt to impersonate a long-time client to initiate a large wire transfer. “There were subtle inconsistencies in tone, timing and instructions,” she says. “Because we have strong, longstanding relationships with our clients and a deep understanding of their normal operations, our team took quick action. We were able to stop the transaction before any funds were lost — safeguarding not just money, but trust.”
Large, online providers are increasing in popularity, but McNulty is candid about the tradeoffs. “Sometimes they have a cost advantage due to their scale, lack of overhead and minimal people,” he says, “justifying something that may not be the lowest price, so you have experienced people to support your business can be a hard choice.” He uses a relatable metaphor to illustrate the difference, “I sometimes compare it to a fast-food restaurant versus sit-down fine dining,” he explains. “There is a draw to providing a service that is fast, cheap and convenient. However, our job as a good community bank is to give all the convenience and be competitive with pricing, but provide all the custom experience and expertise which makes choosing us the right option in the long run.”
Ultimately, Terry Taylor, president and CEO, believes the future of banking belongs to teams that blend modern tools with genuine relationships. “Our digital tools make banking easier and more convenient, but they’ll never replace personal interactions,” he says. “Our true differentiator is our people. Our associates aren’t just banking experts — they’re passionate about helping clients succeed,” he explains. “By blending technology with a team devoted to client success, Oak Bank delivers a banking experience that is both modern and deeply personal — ensuring our clients feel understood, supported and empowered every step of the way.”
If you want a banker who knows your name and your goals, partner with Oak Bank. Call and a person will answer. Stop in and an associate will meet you as you walk through the door. Decisions move faster, risks are caught sooner or avoided altogether, and your next step comes into focus.
Contact Info:
Terry Taylor
President & CEO
608-250-5520
ttaylor@oak.bank
