Robyn Molenaar: Emphasizing improvement and accountability

RM: I started as a receptionist when I was 19 years old. It was my first job in the corporate world, and I was hungry to learn. I moved into funding, left for six months and came back into an AMU position. In 2017, I became an Internal Business Development Manager (BDM). Then in 2019, I moved into my current role as External BDM. 

RM: I tried to absorb as much as I could because I didn’t have a lot of knowledge about mortgages or the corporate world. I was constantly asking to take on additional tasks so I could dig in deeper. When I came back into the AMU role, it was like riding a bike. I felt like I never left. I just picked right back up where I started, and everyone was so welcoming.

RM: At a town hall or sales conference, there was a panel on career growth. People were sharing their trajectories at First National. They talked about how they grew and the support they got along the way. By hearing other people’s experiences, I realized how much opportunity was available to me. 

RM: Every position I’ve held has contributed to the work I do today. In my move from Internal to External BDM, I struggled with imposter syndrome. I had this mental block and narrative that I didn’t belong and wasn’t cut out for the position. I felt embarrassed about it and didn’t want to admit those feelings. Overcoming that hurdle was a big milestone for me. My manager was so supportive and gave me tips without even knowing it. Finding little successes every day gave me confidence that I’m capable and can do a great job. 

RM: I’m a huge advocate for office culture. I’ve gotten involved in team building events including holiday parties and employee appreciation. I have been the face of the social committee in the Calgary office. The culture in the Calgary office is amazing. We all get along really well and socialize outside of work. Ultimately, we are humans first, so it’s important to create and nurture an environment where we help and respect each other and have fun. 

RM: My career path. When I started in reception, I was so young. I remember seeing people in the BDM position and thinking they were so professional, put together and able to wear so many hats. I’m really proud of the work I put in to wear all those hats today. 

RM: Reputation is the theme that comes up for me. There have been so many government and regulatory changes in 10 years. Every time there is a new one, people reach out to us for clarity and understanding. The industry trusts our knowledge and expertise. I’m grateful to be part of such a respected company.

RM: Aiming for better and emphasizing accountability align with my core values. You can’t have one without the other. I’m always thinking about different ways of doing things and growing our careers. It’s important to set goals and hold ourselves accountable to the steps required to achieve those goals. We also have to take accountability for mistakes and things that could have gone better. When you are consistently aiming to be better, it’s inevitable that sometimes things will go wrong. 

RM: I’ve never thought, “Oh, I’m a woman.” First National isn’t built that way. And the industry isn’t built that way either. I am surrounded by strong females and I’m grateful for each and every one. 

RM: I recognize my privilege. I’m grateful for the opportunity to listen, learn and become a better ally. I haven’t had to overcome the same challenges that my colleagues have overcome. I think it’s incredible that we are intentional about celebrating every part of what makes First National what it is.

RM: My personal motto, which was ingrained in me as a small kid, is “no task is outside of your job description.” I show up with that mentality every day. It could be something as small as cleaning out the lunchroom fridge. But it extends to bigger things as well including helping a co-worker, volunteering for a social committee, being on panels and telling your story. All these things, big and small, will make you more well-rounded and help you grow your career. 

RM: When I think about 10 years at First National, it’s been a multi-faceted journey. I’m still growing and I’m excited for what’s to come.