Ryan Carlson, Chief Deposit Officer –
Tradition Capital Bank
Networking makes the world go around. Experts suggest at least 80% of all jobs are filled through a professional network connection. Working through people you know makes things happen, which is why we’re highlighting those in the background of many successful executives we read about.
If there was an Olympic team for networking, Ryan Carlson would surely be a part of it. With countless relationships built and over two decades of industry experience in banking, Ryan Carlson – Chief Deposit Officer of Tradition Capital Bank – is one of the Twin Cities’ best-known professional networkers. Ryan prioritizes paying it forward and being of service to the people with whom he connects.
If you could try a different job for a day, what would you choose?
If I had the opportunity, I would want to be a cowboy on a cattle ranch in Montana. I grew up with horses and I love the mountains. My first job after graduating college was working on a dude ranch as a wrangler. I enjoyed the experience of caring for the horses and meeting people from around the country and the world.
What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?
Prioritize building a network. Strategically making connections can open doors that you never even realized existed. It allows you to develop relationships early on that will last throughout your career and will pay dividends in the long run.
What is your mantra?
Give more than you get. I’ve always built relationships with 100% intention towards helping that other person. Connecting with people and having a pay-it-forward mentality will always pay off.
How do you get yourself out of a slump?
I take a step back, look at the big picture, and give myself the same pep talk that I would give to my kids. Often my wife will ask me, “How would you speak to our children if they were in a similar situation.” It’s easy to speak negatively about oneself when we lose perspective.
What companies or leaders do you admire?
I admire those who are values-driven who lead with authenticity. The President and CEO of Tradition, Dan Fagan, as well as the founder, Reid Evenson, are big on giving back and serving the community. They function with a purpose that’s greater than just making money, they want to make the world a better place.
What has been the biggest shift you’ve noticed in your industry in the last decade?
The biggest shift that I’ve seen is the increase in pervasiveness of FinTechs in banking. Financial technologies have allowed smaller banks to be significantly more competitive.
Who has been most instrumental in your career?
My dad, He was inspirational in the humblest way, I do my best to replicate his ethics – working hard and helping people, knowing that good things will come of that. He also happened to make an introduction to a financial services contact more than twenty years ago which ultimately led me to a career in banking.
What is your go-to celebration meal, drink or tradition?
My favorite part of any celebration is spending time with my family. We like to celebrate by going out together to enjoy a fun meal.
