Member credits FWI for developing her personally as a leader
Annette Jorden joined Financial Women International in 1996 primarily for the education and networking opportunities. She also wanted to further her career in financial services and looked to FWI to know and understand the industry better.
Her career did advance, but Jorden Fall says she benefited most in her personal development.
“Being actively involved in FWI for 10 years has provided the greatest value to me, personally,” she says. “FWI has enabled me to develop my leadership, organizational and networking skills. I think those who are not involved in the organization are missing out.”
Jorden spent 11 years as a Marketing Consultant for First National Bank in Omaha, Neb., where she worked with various business units to strategically support their marketing needs. During those 11 years, she held eight different roles, one in which she facilitated a referral/revenue generation program for the company.
She recently joined the life insurance company, Woodsmen of the World, to provide training and business development to the reps in the Southeastern region of the United States as part of the advanced marketing team.
“Developing my leadership skills through FWI has increased my confidence and given me self esteem to be pro-active, particularly when this new job opportunity came about. This organization can help develop you.”
Jorden credits FWI’s Paragon Circle Programs for providing the most value toward that end. Each program speaks to a critical skill development that anyone can use, not matter what role they’re in, she says. Beyond that, Jorden says the conferences, dynamic speakers and group programming have provided opportunities to stay abreast of topics and trends in the financial business and network with colleagues across the country.
As the organization seeks to reinvent itself, Jorden is pleased to be serving on an FWI committee for younger members, ages 30 to 45. FWI has traditionally served the 45 to 60 age group well, she says, because that’s the majority age of the members. But, Jorden Fall believes FWI has something specific to offer each age group to help them succeed personally and professionally.
“Quite frankly, because of my marketing role now, I don’t get as much from the industry information, which is more specific to banking. But I’ve stayed involved in the organization and I’m a member because it helps me to develop my leadership skills,” she says. “My advice to younger members would be to definitely get involved, take on leadership roles and responsibilities. Clearly that is when you grow.”