Hamilton: When I began my career at CU1 as a part-time teller, I didn’t know the difference between a bank and a credit union – I just wanted to work at a financial institution. But as I grew in my role, I was drawn to the fact that credit unions treat you as one of their own and are an inclusive environment for both members and team members. Community matters at a credit union, and that is why I have stayed in the industry for 25 years, even when recruited by banks – credit unions make a real difference in people’s lives, and I wanted to be a part of that.
 
CU Times: What unique skills, experience and attributes do you bring to your role?

Hamilton: My ability to establish relationships with anyone has served me well throughout my career, and it will help Credit Union 1 connect even more impactfully with the communities we serve. I adapt to any environment and communicate effectively with people from all walks of life.

CU Times: Which person (or people) do you credit the most for helping and supporting you along your career journey?

Hamilton: My family has played a big part in pushing me and encouraging me to succeed. I also had a mentor earlier in my career at the executive level who made it clear that he saw my potential and pushed me to go even further than I thought was possible. That stuck with me.
 
CU Times: What are some of the biggest differences between working in your current executive level role and your previous, non-executive roles?

Hamilton: Right now, I am not managing as many people. In previous roles, I was an ear for a lot of people – the good, bad and ugly – and right now, I am not talking to as many people within the credit union on the day to day.

But that experience of understanding different personalities and learning different ways to communicate has helped me prepare for this role. It is so important to always know your audience and be able to speak to individuals of any background so that you can really build that connection.

CU Times: What’s a challenge you faced when you first joined your executive team, and how did you overcome it?

Hamilton: The biggest challenge I faced was knowing my voice. I was being timid, because I didn’t want to step on toes. But then it finally clicked that I wasn’t put into a leadership role to follow, I was put into a role to have my voice heard and shape the way forward. It is an honor and privilege to lead people.
 
CU Times: How would you describe your current leadership style?

Hamilton: I am a leader who gives people what they need, not necessarily what they want. Sometimes what they need is a reality check, sometimes it's a hug and sometimes it's something totally not work related. I like to give people what they need so that they can grow. The ultimate joy is developing people and seeing them succeed.
 
CU Times: What are some lessons you've learned over your career concerning how to communicate well with others? And, do you approach communication differently depending on the generation of the recipient (boomer, Gen X, millennial and Gen Z)? 

Hamilton: The main thing I learned about communicating with others is that sometimes they may not need you to respond, they may just need you to listen. When we are planning our next response, we aren’t listening. I’ve learned to be more patient with my input to give myself time to fully understand the true root of what people are asking. And that applies for communicating with any generation.

CU Times: What are some ways in which you achieve work/life balance, set boundaries and/or avoid burnout at work?

Hamilton: One of the things I’ve done recently, and it has worked wonders, is dedicate time for self-care – a massage, a facial or catching a movie by myself. The clarity I receive during this time, these a-ha moments during downtime, help me relieve stress and be more productive.

CU Times: What’s next for you on your executive career journey? Do you have any specific career goals you’re working toward?

Hamilton: I hope to continue to be an influence on our credit union’s current leaders and future leaders – an example of where you can go if you apply yourself. That’s my main thing – as long as I continue to do that, I will continue to be successful in my eyes.
 
CU Times: What big-picture impact do you hope to make within your credit union, as well as for your members and community? 

Hamilton: In my career, I have always wanted to be a positive role model. When I was growing up, people did not always take the time to work with the youth in my community and show us there was a different way of life. That is why I take the time to speak to young men at local community centers to share my story and hopefully inspire them to want to do better. To find those opportunities to give back and to help others live a better life is such a rewarding feeling.
 
CU Times: What career advice would you give your younger self?

Hamilton: Your career is not linear. There will be ups and downs but never give up. You are who you think you are: Great.

Would you or someone you know like to share your journey to credit union leadership? Please reach out to Natasha Chilingerian at [email protected]. To qualify, the individual must be a part of a credit union's leadership team or C-suite, and have a compelling story to share about their rise to their current leadership role.