Paige Gebhardt Cognetti
Scranton mayor
Tell us about your first job?
When I was 16, I got a job as a bank teller at U.S. Bank in my hometown of Beaverton, Oregon. I worked there in high school and during college summers. It was a great deal of responsibility for a 16-year-old. I handled a large amount of cash and at the end of each day, I had to make sure my drawer balanced to the penny — just like the city’s budget every year.
I learned how a local economy works. I became familiar with local businesses, workers and residents, and gained valuable insights into community needs and concerns, which help inform my positions and approaches to this day.
Working as a bank teller provided me with a valuable foundation for my current line of work. I used customer service and communication skills and had to have great attention to detail, while also gathering insight into community needs and financial trends, and remaining vigilant in a highly regulated environment. Dealing with customer issues and processing transactions required quick thinking and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for navigating the complexities of running a city.
Working in a bank also provided firsthand experience with financial concepts, which has been incredibly useful for understanding complex economic policies and advocating for sound financial decisions. Working in a financial institution also required a strong commitment to ethical behavior, which formed my continued commitment to a high level of integrity and public trust.
I’ll never forget that job — or the people who gave me that opportunity — and how they helped me get to where I am today.
What advice can you give to anyone entering the workforce?
I would recommend considering your first job solely for the experience. Your first job may not be your dream job, but it’s an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and build your skills.
For those interested in a career in finance or banking, for example, working as a bank teller can be a great way build a foundation for future roles. Developing crucial skills like customer service, communication and attention to detail are great foundations for any career.
What should a job seeker look for in a potential employer?
When evaluating a potential employer, I would recommend that job seekers should consider factors like organizational stability, growth opportunities, work-life balance and compensation, along with the company’s culture and values to ensure it’s a good fit. A good fit will lead to greater job satisfaction and growth opportunities.
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