Staff stories
Bandana's sheer grit and determination
Senior Loan OfficerBandana's sheer grit and determination
Senior Loan OfficerBefore joining ASA India as Senior Loan Officer, Bandana, from Howrah managed a small business to supplement her husband's income. ASA supported her business through a micro-loan. Unfortunately, two years back, her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumour. They spent a sizable amount on his treatment, yet she never faltered in her instalments. The disease affected the livelihood activity of her husband, and thereby, the financial condition of the family kept deteriorating. The circumstances were grim; Bandana's business was not doing well as an outcome of the pandemic. Looking at the families' economic condition, the Branch Manager of ASA India suggested that Bandana try and take up a job with ASA India since she was adequately qualified. He even offered her an opportunity to take the ongoing recruitment tests and interview for the position of Senior Loan Officer. Accepting the suggestion, she applied for the position, cleared the test/interview at one go, and joined ASA India. Now she is a part of ASA India and is the sole bread-earner for her family. Bandana now goes around meeting other women struggling to do something on their own and explaining how to make their dreams come true and their life better with ASA India's comprehensive support. Bandana explains ASA India's interventions through microfinance, social initiatives, and various other programs, oversees it, and ensures ASA's aid reaches the end-users. When Life throws curveballs, rising above it all and making life a lesson in resilience for others to follow is a true sign of courage and determination. Bandana’s story is an inspiration for all.
Raja's unique career path
Loan officerRaja's unique career path
Loan officerRaja was initially employed at the ASA India Head Office through an outsourced office cleaning service. One day, during a casual conversation, the Managing Director of ASA India, Mr Dasgupta, recognised that Raja was adequately academically qualified and had the true potential for higher positions. Raja submitted his CV, was invited for an interview and cleared all the stages to partake in the Pre-service orientation (‘PSO’) training. “I went for residential PSO training. It was very informative and in-depth: we were told about ASA’s history, the methodology, the financial processes, loan officer’s responsibilities and formal benefits. Additionally, we came to know more about how ASA works in the field: how the staff never pressurise borrowers and that it is very important to speak politely with the borrowers. Upon completion of the theoretical training, I went to the Baduria branch for practical training. The team there was very supportive, and they helped me understand the practices a loan officer needs to follow. After I cleared the final examination, I was selected to become a loan officer. The recruitment process and training has been very helpful for my day-to-day work. From time to time, I am provided with training, and now I am capable of using a tablet and computer for my everyday work. Also, my responsibilities are not limited to loan-related activities; as a loan officer, I participate in CSR activities. I was part of the Deganga health camp organising team, and it was fulfilling to provide this kind of service to the people in need. We work for the betterment of society, and that is very rewarding. I feel proud when the borrowers say how satisfied they are with ASA. What I also appreciate a lot is that we receive our salary on time and have several benefits, such as insurance and gratuity. I love being a loan officer. I wish to be a zonal manager, the highest of all area divisions, someday as I think with experience and support, I will manage higher roles. I plan to continue studying and complete graduation, which will help me fulfil my dream of achieving a better and more responsible position within the organisation. On a personal front, I wish to provide for the promising future of my kid.” A year after his appointment as a loan officer, Raja returned to the Head Office and asked to meet with Mr Dasgupta. According to Mr Dasgupta: “Raja had a positively different personality, beaming with confidence. He is going to grow further and reach greater heights.”