Business View Magazine | Volume 8, Issue 8

101 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 8, ISSUE 8 FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK “You definitely still have some people that come in every single day,” Myers explains. “But one thing you learn quickly is that everybody has their own way of managing their money. Some are happy to use the app while others want to come in regularly for updates on their finances.” Ultimately, FM Bank is determined to offer its customers choice. The bank averages between 10 and 14 percent growth year-on-year, without having to build extra branches. For small business customers, the bank sets them up with an internal scanning station so they can deposit checks right from their desks. It’s an approach that has allowed the bank to extend its reach beyond the main office, supporting customers without requiring them to ever walk into the bank in person. However, just because some customers may not need face-to-face support, this doesn’t mean that FM Bank neglects those that do. “One of the main issues our customers have been raising lately is regarding various government support programs,” Myers says. “There are so many different loans, whether they are from the federal government, the SBA, state-level programs, and even some local county grants. It’s our job to ensure our customers are aware of these and get the documentation together that they need. Compared to larger institutions, we offer as much support as our customers need.” “We meet on a regular basis to ensure our staff are up to date with new industry developments,” Morton adds. “We communicate through in- person meetings, informal huddles, and, of course, email. Also, we all sit really near to our main office so that gives us the ability to just talk throughout the day as new developments emerge. We’re a pretty close-knit group both relationally and in proximity.” As part of this tight-knit organization, FM Bank has four offices and is getting ready to open its fifth this fall. The bank is also planning several major upgrades involving its core software, its online banking services, and its debit card program. “We’ve always tried to stay at the forefront of new technologies,” Myers comments. “We want to make sure we’re always offering the best there is for our customers. We’ve also implemented a couple of smaller innovations recently. For example, we now issue our own debit cards right here in the branch. The first day that you open your account, you will walk out with your card. We think these kinds of differentiators are important.” Looking ahead to future developments, FM Bank is a firm believer in pursuing steady, sustainable growth. “We’re currently growing at a strong