What's the difference between a credit union and a bank?
The Frank Capra film
It’s a Wonderful Life offers a good, if simplified, illustration of the difference between credit unions and other financial institutions. Where the Bailey Building and Loan put community needs ahead of profit, Potter’s bank was out to make a profit regardless of the harm it brought to the community.
Though credit unions are rarely so munificent and bankers rarely so malevolent, the film’s scenario does point to the real community spirit that has always been the most important element of the credit union philosophy. If community spirit appeals to you more than profit does and you’re skilled with finances, a credit union job may be the right choice for you.
Though often run as not-for-profit institutions, credit union careers can also be financially lucrative.
As you think about whether credit union employment is for you, consider some of the basic philosophies of credit unions:
- Membership in a credit union is voluntary and open to all who want the benefits of membership and can accept the responsibilities it carries. No discrimination is tolerated.
- Credit unions are owned by their members and ruled by them, as well, with a one vote per member rule. All members are encouraged to actively participate.
- Member funds make up the capital of the credit union. This allows all members to benefit from the pooled funds.
- Credit unions emphasize education and information for their members, the general public and lawmakers.
- Community spirit fuels credit unions, whose members generally create policies to help people of more modest means in the community, such as through low interest loans and other financial products.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Create a resume specific to credit union jobs
Whether you're applying for an entry level or mid-career position in a credit union, the right resume raises your chances of getting an interview.
I recommend: CareerBank provides financial resume writing services customized to your career advancement plans. For a one-on-one approach, you can work with
Financial Resume Pros, who schedule a lengthy phone interview with you to make sure they have all the information they need.
Browse online credit union job postings
Credit union employment opportunities are on the same sites as jobs for traditional banks. Seeking out financial job boards lets you browse and apply for a large number of credit union jobs in a short time. Look for sites where you can post your resume to make the application process easier.
I recommend: Employment at credit unions can be found through
Bankjobs.com,
eFinancialCareers and
Jobs in the Money. You can narrow your search by keyword to view only credit union jobs. Each job site also allows you to post your resume and maintain other information online.
Work with banking recruiters to locate a credit union job
Recruiters can help you get access to exclusive credit union jobs that aren't advertised, especially if you already have financial or banking experience.
I recommend: Register with
NBFSN, an association of recruiting firms that specialize in the financial sector, to gain access to credit union jobs across the country.
Hoffman Recruiters is a nationwide recruiting firm that specializes in the financial industry.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Visit individual credit union websites and contact local credit unions as you search for credit union employment.
- Getting an entry level credit union job, such as a teller position, can help you get to know the ropes of the credit union and can lead to more lucrative employment.
The official source of Credit Union Jobs is the Credit Union Jobs page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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