Lynn Howe

Q&A

What does a good day at work look like to you?

When we have one of those customer experiences that people reach out to share with me – that really epitomizes what we’re trying to do with the customer experience. Hearing about how someone went out of their way to help. That’s a good day.

What do you like best about the culture at Kennebunk Savings?

How everybody is connected, like a family. Everybody shows how they care about each other in ways both large and small.

Which one of our brand values (Integrity, Empathy, Proactive, Trust) resonates most strongly for you?

They all resonate, but empathy resonates the most. It’s important to remember that there’s a human being on the other side of everything we do, it’s not just a “loan applicant.” It’s a person buying a house, or a car. It’s a person maybe trying to overcome a financial difficulty. When you have empathy, you recognize that the angry customer isn’t angry at you. It has nothing to do with you, but you can help.

What is an important lesson that you have learned in your career?

Pausing is really important. Respond, don’t react. And this is related, but: seek to understand before seeking to be understood.

What living person do you most admire?

Tom Brady, because he knows what needs to be done. He puts in the hard work to get where he needs to be. He rallies his team. And he doesn’t ever give up.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Raising my kids. It has been the best thing I have ever done. It has not been easy, but it’s been wicked fun. And seeing them grow into young adults and pursuing their goals. I couldn’t be prouder of them.

What do you love about your community?

It’s a small community, but full of heart. People care about each other and look out for each other. It’s a wonderful place to raise a family.