Business View Magazine - Dec 2023

residents may not meet the eligibility requirements of larger banks. “I believe we can be more flexible,” Beeley concludes. “We probably bank people in some of these rural communities that I do not believe would meet the eligibility requirements of a large financial institution.” EMBRACING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION The digital landscape has revolutionized the banking industry. GCB has adeptly navigated this transformation, ensuring its customers can access a suite of online options that provide convenience and security. Breeden outlines the bank’s online offerings, “Through our online banking, you can pretty much do anything. You can make payments to your loan, and we have a mobile deposit so you can deposit your checks without ever even coming to the bank.” This digital shift proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic when GCB utilized its online platforms and drive-thru services to continue serving its customers while adhering to safety protocols. “We would meet people in the parking lot if needed,” Breeden adds. In addition to its existing online services, GCB is implementing positive pay, a feature designed to combat check fraud for commercial customers. “They can review each check and ACH that comes through. If it’s fraud or unauthorized, they can mark it for return,” explains Breeden. Beeley highlights other innovative programs GCB offers, including Zelle, a person-to-person payment solution, and digital wallets. “Our debit cards are now supported with Samsung Pay, Google Pay, and Apple Pay,” says Breeden. This recent addition has been well-received by customers, providing them with a convenient and secure payment option that aligns with the modern preference for using debit cards over credit cards. EXPANDING HORIZONS AND NURTURING GROWTH As GCB continues to thrive and evolve, the bank is actively exploring new avenues to extend its reach and enhance its services. Beeley shares exciting developments on the horizon, “By the end of the Georgia Community Bank Employee Apprec 223 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 12 GEORGIA COMMUNI T Y BANK (GCB)