UNIFY Financial Credit Union (UNIFY) created Team Affinity Groups (TAGs) several years ago, encouraging UNIFY team members to connect with their peers through a common interest or purpose. After joining a UNIFY TAG, I was inspired to start my own—the Young Professionals TAG. Our group gives aspiring leaders and credit union professionals a place to connect, develop leadership skills, and receive informal mentorship support. Nearly two years strong and continuing to grow, helping kickstart Young Professionals is one accomplishment I am most proud of in my 16-year credit union career.
At our monthly Young Professionals meetings, UNIFY senior leaders are often invited to share their career stories, give advice, and participate in an engaging Q/A with the group. Group leaders also develop their own content sharing insights on topics such as authenticity, leadership styles/principles, personality types, team development, and practical skill building; open-floor discussions are also encouraged, and many times produce some of the best collaborative ideas. Currently, we are working on a project about the history of Labor Day to enhance awareness and understanding for UNIFY team members about what this important day means.
I am excited and proud about the positive impact of Young Professionals so far. Helping lead this group and possibly others in the future certainly adds fulfillment to my career.
Sarah Thompson, Service Performance Analyst, Unify Credit Union
