Success Story

Program Banks on Job Success For Its Graduates

Winner of a 2003 Families Count Family Strengthening Award, Sponsored by Goodwill Industries International and the Annie E. Casey Foundation

According to the U.S. Business Reporter, employment in the banking industry is expected to increase 10 percent by 2005. On the surface, this seems like great news for someone out of work. Yet, entry into the industry can be daunting for those with little to no job experience or education.

Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota (St. Paul), in partnership with Twin Cities area banks, has devised a comprehensive four-week training program that prepares individuals, especially single mothers leaving welfare, for entry-level banking jobs. Its success hinges on blending three types of supports: “technical” financial skills training, “soft” skills training (basics such as office etiquette, conflict management and dressing for success) and post-graduation support.

The primary goal of the Bank Skills Training Program is for participants to reach job stability and income levels that will ensure they are better off financially than they were when receiving public assistance. In the end, individuals are prepared for jobs that have the potential for good wages, benefits and opportunities for advancement.

The classroom curriculum for the program was designed in partnership with TCF Bank and reflects the qualifications graduates need to obtain entry-level employment at partnering financial institutions. A business advisory council was formed with other industry partners to provide ongoing input to adjust and improve the program and curriculum. As stakeholders, business partners are then eager to hire Goodwill graduates.

First, the program focuses significant time on hands-on learning exercises, as research shows that adults learn best when training emulates the work environment. Second, the success stories and first-hand experiences of past participants are used to motivate and inspire current program participants. In addition, the program also features speakers from banking institutions who provide insight into topics that impact the future success of the graduates. Finally, job placement help, job coaching, retention efforts and a “Lunch and Learn” series keep graduates on track by providing them with a forum to teach and reinforce basic skills, exchange information with other graduates, and develop peer support networks.  

Source: Working! Summer 2003