This week's eChoice BDM is based in Melbourne but covers the three states of Vic/SA/Tas.
eChoice BDM Melinda Batt has been in the industry 24 years, after she completed a Bachelor of Education and lived and travelled overseas. Her first job in the industry was as a personal banker. "I loved the job so much and had such an amazing ride since - so never left the industry!!"
BDM in the spotlight asks a different BDM the same seven questions – giving you a weekly insight into the lives of some of the top BDM’s in the country.
How often do you see brokers in a week?
Typically I’m on the road visiting brokers, funders and other business partners four days a week; while dedicating one full day to the office and admin requirements.
What do brokers want most from you?
They want support to ensure they can operate their businesses seamlessly on a day-to-day level. Because eChoice is continually developing market-leading business tools and infrastructure to support their broker network, my role is more about providing that personal layer of support.
Brokers want their calls and requests addressed promptly with the least amount of drama. It’s not rocket science, this (like most if not all) is a business built on relationships and I treat my brokers in a high grade manner. So when I do respond, it’s critical I have the knowledge, experience and assertiveness to make a concise call in the best interest of the involved parties. There’s a borrower at the end of each transaction and it’s essential to respect this human side of the equation.
What is your favourite part of the job?
Being part of an organisation that keeps evolving and working with great people. There are so many amazing inspiring brokers and other business partners in our industry and no two days are the same. I’m not sure what I’m going to get from one day to the next and that’s very cool!
What distinguishes the best brokers you deal with?
It’s a combination of their people/relationship skills; ability to embrace change, adapt to all situations and remain calm; time-management; ability to be organized, as well as self-discipline and motivation.
The most successful genuinely want to serve and help others
Describe your ideal weekend:
Sleep in with my partner, then a run to the beach (Brighton/Hampton) with my dog, followed by 20 mins meditation. Home for a green smoothie, then a day in nature with kids, partner, swimming in our pool, playing cricket/tennis, reading, gardening, followed by an evening BBQ with close friends & family.
What’s the strangest lending scenario you’ve encountered:
Not so much strange, but reaffirming the impact one broker can have on someone’s life.
A couple were desperate to have a child after many unsuccessful years. Their only option was IVF, however they weren't in a position to afford it due to racking up 100K in credit card debt. Over time, we were able to consolidate their debt, reduce their outgoings, enable them to save and subsequently afford IVF. The magical result being a baby!
How do you like your steak done?
Medium, but I’m much more of a seafood kind of girl.
Every Wednesday we’ll feature a different BDM from across Australia. If you’d like to be included, please email the editor.
Related articles:
BDM in the spotlight: Adrian Lee
BDM in the spotlight: Janita De Paoli
BDM in the spotlight: Vanessa Hyde
BDM in the spotlight asks a different BDM the same seven questions – giving you a weekly insight into the lives of some of the top BDM’s in the country.
How often do you see brokers in a week?
Typically I’m on the road visiting brokers, funders and other business partners four days a week; while dedicating one full day to the office and admin requirements.
What do brokers want most from you?
They want support to ensure they can operate their businesses seamlessly on a day-to-day level. Because eChoice is continually developing market-leading business tools and infrastructure to support their broker network, my role is more about providing that personal layer of support.
Brokers want their calls and requests addressed promptly with the least amount of drama. It’s not rocket science, this (like most if not all) is a business built on relationships and I treat my brokers in a high grade manner. So when I do respond, it’s critical I have the knowledge, experience and assertiveness to make a concise call in the best interest of the involved parties. There’s a borrower at the end of each transaction and it’s essential to respect this human side of the equation.
What is your favourite part of the job?
Being part of an organisation that keeps evolving and working with great people. There are so many amazing inspiring brokers and other business partners in our industry and no two days are the same. I’m not sure what I’m going to get from one day to the next and that’s very cool!
What distinguishes the best brokers you deal with?
It’s a combination of their people/relationship skills; ability to embrace change, adapt to all situations and remain calm; time-management; ability to be organized, as well as self-discipline and motivation.
The most successful genuinely want to serve and help others
Describe your ideal weekend:
Sleep in with my partner, then a run to the beach (Brighton/Hampton) with my dog, followed by 20 mins meditation. Home for a green smoothie, then a day in nature with kids, partner, swimming in our pool, playing cricket/tennis, reading, gardening, followed by an evening BBQ with close friends & family.
What’s the strangest lending scenario you’ve encountered:
Not so much strange, but reaffirming the impact one broker can have on someone’s life.
A couple were desperate to have a child after many unsuccessful years. Their only option was IVF, however they weren't in a position to afford it due to racking up 100K in credit card debt. Over time, we were able to consolidate their debt, reduce their outgoings, enable them to save and subsequently afford IVF. The magical result being a baby!
How do you like your steak done?
Medium, but I’m much more of a seafood kind of girl.
Every Wednesday we’ll feature a different BDM from across Australia. If you’d like to be included, please email the editor.
Related articles:
BDM in the spotlight: Adrian Lee
BDM in the spotlight: Janita De Paoli
BDM in the spotlight: Vanessa Hyde
