Side by Side Banking: A More Personal Way to Manage Your Finances

Tired of impersonal banking experiences? Standing in line, shuffling forward, finally reaching the counter only to conduct a quick transaction and then be on your way. It’s efficient, sure, but where’s the connection? Where’s the personalized advice?

At 1st Source Bank, we believe banking should be more than just transactions; it should be a conversation. While all our locations offer tailored guidance to help you achieve your goals, select branches now feature Side by Side Banking.

What’s that, you ask?  It’s a bank building reimagined.  This layout transforms how you interact with our team, creating a warmer, more conversational atmosphere.

What is Side by Side Banking?

Imagine stepping into a bright, welcoming space – a space designed for connection and convenience.  Instead of waiting in line, you can grab a coffee from our complimentary coffee bar.  When you’re ready, we’ll be happy to have a chat.

Instead of a long counter separating you from the teller, you’re invited to engage with them at a private desk. You get to see everything on their computer screen, which often leads to unexpected conversations. You can see your account details, ask questions, and get advice you hadn’t thought to ask for.  For example:

From Coffee to Car Loans

Here’s a story about Alex, a 1st Source client, and Jordan, a banking center employee.

Alex walked into the banking center, exhausted from a long day at work.  But just a few sips of the warm coffee was enough to reset things.

“Hello, Alex!” Jordan called out with a smile. “How are you today?”

“Hey, Jordan! I’m doing well, thanks. Just here to deposit a check,” Alex replied, as they walked over to the computer.  This small, inviting space was designed so the client and their family can chat with a banker, one-on-one.  It had a sleek, modern look with a shared monitor that both the client and teller could see.

As the deposit wrapped up, they took a look at Alex’s account balance together.

“I see you’ve been putting more into your savings account lately,” Jordan said. “That’s great! Are you saving for something special?”

Alex smiled. “Yeah, actually. I’m saving up for a new car. It’ll be a while, but I’m getting there.”

“You know, we have a loan specialist who could help you get preapproved for a car loan. It might be a good idea to see how much you can afford and what the payments will look like.”

Alex looked intrigued. “I hadn’t thought about getting preapproved. It’ll be at least a few months before I have enough saved for the down payment.”

“Getting preapproved now could give you a better idea of your options,” Jordan explained. “Plus, it might help you negotiate a better deal when you’re ready to buy. Would you like me to set up a meeting?”

The Human Touch in a Digital World

As you can see, this conversation never would have happened if Alex had deposited his check digitally or dropped it off at an ATM.  While online banking and cash machines offer convenience, they can’t replicate talking to a person. Sure, you can find financial tips online, but how do you know that you asked the right questions and if the answers even apply to you?

At 1st Source Bank, we believe in the power of human connection. In a world driven by digital transactions, we recognize the irreplaceable value of genuine, face-to-face conversation.  We want to get to know you – your aspirations, your challenges, and your unique financial needs.

Are you buying your first home? Growing your business? Planning for retirement?  The more we get to know you, the better we can help. You don’t have to schedule an appointment to talk with us—just drop by. We make it easy to chat whenever it’s convenient for you, not the other way around.

And creating a warm, welcoming environment in our Side by Side banks is one way we make those convenient drop-in chats even better.

We know that banking can be stressful.  Whether you’re dealing with complex financial decisions or simply managing your day-to-day finances, it’s not your favorite thing to do.  When you walk into our bank we want you to feel valued, respected, and comfortable.

Grab a complimentary cup of coffee and relax for a moment.  Enjoy some small-talk with your neighbors or chat with one of our friendly team members.  We believe in building relationships with our clients, and sometimes those relationships start with conversations that aren’t about finance.  We’re part of your community, and we want you to feel at home in our branches.

Building Relationships, One Cup at a Time

Side by Side banking isn’t just a layout for a building: it’s about building relationships, one cup of coffee and one conversation at a time. It’s about creating a space where you feel comfortable discussing your financial goals and seeking expert advice. It’s about empowering you to take control of your finances, knowing that you have a trusted partner by your side.

We invite you to experience the difference for yourself. Visit one of our Side by Side locations. We’re excited to welcome you and show you how. Come in, relax, and let’s talk about your future.