On re-reading my previous post regarding the economic briefing with the RBC’s Chief Economist, I realized that it pointed to an important issue for anyone who owns or manages a public relations business – or any small business for that matter. The relationship we have with our bankers.

Talking to other entrepreneurs over the years, the treatment of small businesses by banks has been one of the most frequently raised sore points. Complaints I have heard most often include: “They’re never there when I really need them. But they always want to lend me money when I don’t need it.” “They want so much security that it makes it impossible for me borrow money for growth.” And even “They don’t seem interested in my business.”

Happily for me, I have had a very different experience with my bank. I’ve had an 11 year banking relationship with RBC. Even more remarkable, RBC has assigned the same account manager, Bill Helmer, to my account for that entire time. Over the years, he has been a source of advice and support. Bill has suggested ways that the bank could help me with my growth plans (yes, the money is offered when I don’t “need” it, but isn’t the art of management all about staying out of a situation in which you “need” financing.) And from time to time, he has reined me in, counseling that my ambitions might be ahead of my reach or that I needed to focus on fundamentals in order to have a solid foundation for those plans. He has invited me to events such as the economic briefing and networking events. And he has talked positively about my business to many of his own contacts.

In a very real sense, Bill Helmer has been a valued partner in guiding Thornley Fallis to business success.

I wonder if my experience is common. Or have the entrepreneurs who’ve told me about their unhappiness with their bankers been the norm?

I’d be interested in hearing about the experiences of other entrepreneurs and small business owners. What do you think? Is my experience typical?