ELS Spotlight With Sarah Hutzel
Sarah Hutzel is a Commercial Banker 3 for Arvest Bank in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
My job responsibilities include: Manage a commercial lending portfolio, mentor incoming commercial banker trainees, and actively participate in the community through various organizations.
What is the most effective daily habit you possess?
Organization. Every day I make a new list to help prioritize goals and tasks for that day. It helps keep me efficient, responsive, and accountable. There’s a lot of noise throughout the day that can be a distraction but staying organized keeps me focused.
What is the most important leadership lesson that you’ve learned?
Lead by setting an example and placing importance on the whole team. Teamwork is critical in my position because of all the moving parts involved in lending. An efficient and effective team must be coordinated by working together, holding each other accountable and knowing the defined end goal. A great team can be a foundation for long-lasting relationships and fostering a positive environment.
What is the greatest advice you have ever been given?
That personal and professional growth often happen while stepping outside of your comfort zone. It’s easy to stay in familiar territory, but you can learn a lot by accepting new challenges and responsibilities.