Building Business Success On A Solid Foundation
a relationship-first approach with Security Financial Bank allows clients to best understand their financial realities and opportunities for growth
Grady Wold, owner of Trend Stone Surfaces, understands the importance of building a business on a solid foundation. When he needed a financial partner to help expand his granite and quartz countertop business, he turned to Security Financial Bank (SFB), where he works with Scott Erickson, Bloomer market president and commercial relationship manager.
“As we looked to grow Trend Stone Surfaces, Scott and the SFB team were knowledgeable and responsive,” Grady said. “It gave us confidence knowing we were working with a local bank that wants to see businesses like ours succeed.”
As Trend Stone Surfaces has grown over the years, Scott and the SFB team have continued to provide the financial guidance and support Grady needs.
“For me, relationship banking is more than saying ‘This is my customer.’ It means truly understanding a customer’s wants, needs, pain points, and aspirations,” Scott said. “It’s all based on trust.”
Scott, who recently celebrated 10 years with SFB, begins by understanding each client’s goals before recommending a financial solution.
“Grady always comes to me with a well-thought-out idea, and he is receptive to feedback,” Scott said. “We can openly explore the options and adjust our approach when needed.”
Trust also means being willing to have difficult conversations. A true banking partnership provides value beyond a single transaction. It offers honest guidance – even when the best advice is to pivot or take a different approach.
“The hard part about any kind of relationship – whether personal or professional – is that sometimes the best answer is no,” Scott said. “It may not be what the client wants to hear, but it demonstrates that we have their best interests in mind.”
That person-to-person connection remains central to relationship banking and is as important as ever as more banking services move online.
Five Questions to Discuss with Your Banker
- What is the story of your business – where has it been, where is it today and where do you want it to go?
- What information, documentation and timelines will the bank require?
- What are the biggest opportunities and obstacles your business may face in the years ahead?
- Who else on the banking team should you get to know?
- What expectations should both sides establish to create a successful long-term partnership?
“At the end of the day, it’s a two-way collaboration. Just as we want to understand our customers, it’s important for them to know who they are working with and feel comfortable turning to us for guidance,” Scott said.
SFB has deep roots in western Wisconsin, serving locally owned businesses, agricultural producers and individuals throughout the region. Since opening in 1934, SFB has grown to more than 140 employees, with offices in Alma Center, Black River Falls, Bloomer, Durand, Eau Claire, Ladysmith and River Falls.
The bank also is building a new corporate office in Eau Claire, scheduled to open in spring 2027.
Whether business owners are launching a new venture, expanding an established company, seeking specialized financial services, or planning for the future, SFB is committed to helping them build a strong financial foundation. Through trusted guidance and personalized support, SFB gives business owners the confidence to make sound decisions today and for years to come.
Scott Erickson can be reached at 715.930.7024 or serickson@sfbank.com. Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender
Security Financial Bank
Address: 4217 Southtowne Dr., Eau Claire
Phone: (715) 833-7685
Website: www.sfbank.com
