Tracy NeSmith, AAP
Vice President, Treasury Support Officer
Planters First Bank, Hawkinsville, GA
Member, GBA Operations and Technology Committee
Published Jan. 11, 2024
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: In April 1991, I received a call from a friend that worked for Planters First Bank (Planters Bank at that time). He was looking for someone to run proof. I turned in my notice for the job that I had at the time and have never looked back.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received in the early/formative years of your career?
A: Character is everything, not everyone is going to like you, and if you do not believe in yourself, nobody will.
Q: Tell us more about one experience you’ve had that exemplifies being a banker or your role at the bank.
A: There are so many stories that I could share….but every opportunity I have to help a customer manage their business banking which allows them to be more efficient and do all of this securely is a success story for me. I truly love what I do for the bank and our customers.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: Years ago, I would dress up as Goldie the Clown (the bank’s mascot at the time) and go monthly to all the primary schools to read, attend bank functions and parades.
Q: Book that you love/has made an impact?
A: There are two, the classic “How to win friends and influence people” by Dale Carnegie and later in my career the book “Spark” by Angie Morgan, Courtney Lynch and Sean Lynch. The book “Spark” built on what I had learn in the book “How to win friends and influence people” and took it to a whole other level. I recommend both books.
Q: Pet peeve?
A: My pet peeve are pet peeves in general. They come across as being negative instead Positive and I am an optimistic person.
Q: TV show or series you love?
A: “Friday Night Lights,” both the movie and series. I love to watch high school and college football, and these shows helps you to better understand what goes into a football season from different perspectives.