If you went to college, where did you graduate? In what did you receive your degree?
I went to the University of Arkansas at Monticello. I did not graduate, as I decided to jumpstart my professional career in management. I plan to one day go back and finish out what I started and obtain a degree in Business Administration and focus in Human Resources Management.
How long have you been in banking?
Two years in October of this year.
What is your official job title?
Retail Branch Manager
How/Why did you get into the banking industry?
After dedicating 7 years of my life to Walmartbig-box retail, I yearned to start a new chapter. My adoration for customer service and leading had always been a flame that burned brightly within me. The prospect of connecting with the community was a thrilling aspect that drew me towards banking.
What do people assume about your role that isn’t true?
Bankers only work with money: While a significant aspect of a banking role, we also perform other tasks such as marketing, customer service, risk management, compliance and so much more.
What does Beyond A Banker mean to you?
To “Give a little more than you have to.” It means forming strong, meaningful relationships with our customers and be a well-known part of the community by attending events within the community and supporting these events.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Spending time with my family, especially my nieces and nephews. They all adore their “Uncle Eddie.”
Where might we see you on the weekends?
If I’m not home near family, I am hanging with my best friend, Sarah. Usually “keeping the roads hot” traveling somewhere.
What should your job title be (if it was "hilariously accurate" to what you do every day)?
The Master of Disaster.
What show(s) are you currently binge-watching?
ABC’s Revenge (Old but still just as good) or Naked and Afraid.
When/where are you happiest?
In the car or taking walks alone. I’m able to clear my mind and reflect on all things troubling me in peace.
Where is your favorite (local) place to eat? What is your go-to order?
Breaker. The grilled chicken salads are, as the kids say, “BUSSIN’”.
What motivates you to get out of bed in the morning?
My sense of responsibility to the associates in my branch, my family and my community. Everyday I’m motivated to do my best and make a difference for at least one person.
What special/interesting skill do you have that many might not know about?
I’m a sucker for perfection. I like to keep things organized and in the proper place. I’m very creative and artistic. I’m like HGTV on legs.
What was your first job?
I was a cashier at Walmart.
If you had a reality TV show of your life, what would it be called?
The Many Maneuvers of a Monticello Maverick – Shane “Eddie” Barnett.
What is something you wish you would have known earlier in your career?
The importance of learning from my mistakes. In the beginning of my career, I was my own worst critic and beat myself up constantly for any mistake I found myself making. I learned how to reflect on what went wrong and how to improve the next time. Every mistake made is an opportunity for the future.
