Haley Barnes
Marketing Manager
BankSouth Mortgage, Valdosta, GA
Chair, GBA Marketing Committee
Published Nov. 2, 2023
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: I’ve always loved the financial services industry and how it truly makes a positive impact on those they serve, whether that’s in wealth management, banking, mortgage services, etc. I originally started in wealth management and quickly learned that it wasn’t the best fit for me. I’ve always loved marketing, and that’s what my degree is in. I love that my career in banking marries the two together through being able to help people in the financial services industry-- letting them know how we can help and what we can solve for them. We get to help guide people through some of their biggest milestones—from purchasing a home (to a second home), starting their own business, saving for that big goal, and everything in between.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received in the early/formative years of your career?
A: The most valuable piece of advice I received early in my career was the importance of building and maintaining relationships. A mentor once shared with me the insight that success is frequently not solely about what you know but also about the relationships you cultivate. This guidance inspired me to actively network, collaborate, and create meaningful connections with colleagues and peers within the industry. As a result, these relationships have proven to be invaluable in various aspects of my career, opening doors to opportunities, collaborations, and shared expertise that have enhanced my professional growth and achievements.
Q: Tell us more about one experience you’ve had that exemplifies being a banker or your role at the bank.
A: We get to help drive customers to our loan officers, which in turn allows them to guide a customer through homeownership. Teamwork makes the dream work and it takes every single person to make a loan happen at BankSouth Mortgage. From marketing to sales, to operations, IT, and leadership. Everyone has a part and our marketing team gets to be a part of helping someone accomplish their dream of homeownership.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: My husband and I (and now our 2-year-old toddler) love to travel. Specifically, we love visiting national parks across the nation. We have quite a few “bucket list” locations, but one of our bucket list items is to visit all 50 states. We only have 19 states to go!
Q: First tap/click of the day?
A: Alarm clock. At work, the Morning Brew newsletter in my inbox.
Q: Podcast you love?
A: My recommendation would be based on what you like. Most of the ones I listen to are spiritual based, so I love The Porch Messages, The Daily Grace Co, and The Marriage Adventure Podcasts. For fun, I love one of my favorite blogger's podcasts called “Life with Loverly” and Laura Akin's “Live in Love” podcast.
Q: Book that you love/has made an impact?
A: Book that I love: Anything by Francine Rivers. Book that has made the biggest impact: the Bible
Q: Most used app?
A: Chick fil A (haha…jk). Probably Instagram
Q: TV show or series you love?
A: New Girl is my all-time favorite.