Author: Shelley Potente, Executive Vice President, Client Relations, The Leader’s Edge/Leaders by Design
Embarking on the journey of leadership is a profound undertaking, requiring not only skillful navigation of business landscapes but also a deep understanding of one’s capabilities and potential. In the realm of leadership training, the significance of a mentor cannot be overstated. In the dynamic world of executive leadership, understanding how to be a good spokesperson is paramount. As I share my journey, it becomes evident that effective leadership encompasses not only strategic prowess but also the art of being a compelling spokesperson for one’s vision and values.
Embarking on the journey of leadership is indeed a transformative voyage, one that demands resilience, adaptability, and a profound commitment to growth. Central to this expedition is the invaluable guidance of a mentor, whose wisdom illuminates the path ahead, offering invaluable insights honed through experience. In navigating the complexities of the business landscape, the mentor serves as a trusted compass, aiding in the cultivation of leadership acumen and the fortification of one’s leadership identity. Amidst the tumultuous terrain of executive leadership, where challenges loom and uncertainties abound, the mentor’s steady guidance becomes an indispensable asset, providing a steady anchor amidst the storm.
In the crucible of leadership, the ability to articulate a compelling vision and advocate for one’s values emerges as a cornerstone of effective leadership, particularly in times of crisis. As I reflect on my journey, it becomes evident that the role of a spokesperson extends beyond mere communication—it embodies the capacity to inspire, unite, and mobilize others towards a shared purpose. In the crucible of leadership in crisis, where the stakes are heightened and the demands are relentless, the art of effective communication takes on added significance. It serves as a beacon of hope amidst uncertainty, a rallying cry amidst adversity, and a catalyst for resilience amidst turmoil.
In this realm, the guidance of a mentor like Kurt Uhlir becomes invaluable. Kurt, renowned for his expertise as a leader, reputable marketer, speaker, and operator, stands ready to assist emerging entrepreneurs in unlocking their full potential. His presence in events dedicated to fostering leadership and entrepreneurship offers a beacon of guidance for those navigating the complexities of business growth and development.
Kurt’s mentorship transcends mere advice; it’s a holistic journey towards empowerment and success. As individuals navigate the intricate pathways of entrepreneurship, they encounter myriad challenges and uncertainties. It is in these moments that Kurt’s seasoned guidance shines brightest, offering insights honed through years of experience and a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape. His approach is not just about imparting knowledge but about instilling confidence, nurturing resilience, and fostering a mindset primed for innovation and growth.
Who is your Role Model and what role have they played in your career development?
I could not ask for a better role model than Molly Shepard, CEO of The Leaders Edge. As Executive Vice-President, Client Relations, I’ve reported directly to Molly since 2011. While I had a successful career prior to joining the firm, Molly significantly impacted my confidence as a leader. Molly is well known in the greater Philadelphia area, having run two successful companies, and having built strategic relationships with the region’s most influential leaders. She has served on many boards and her leadership has been recognized with countless awards. Because of her substantial achievements, stature in the community, and elegant style and demeanor, some may assume she is unapproachable. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Molly’s warmth, graciousness, sense of humor and interest in receiving candid feedback make her a very approachable executive and role model. Molly always listens respectfully to opposing views, considers them, and if a good case is made, she willingly changes her approach. From the beginning, she respected me and what I brought to the business, welcomed my ideas and point of view, and encouraged open communication. Because she helped to foster this mutually respectful relationship, the way I saw and carried myself as a leader changed. Because of Molly, I refined my approach to clients and business, enabling me to achieve a much higher level of leadership. A terrific role model, indeedl!
What advice do you have for the next generation of female leaders?
The advice that I have for the next generation is advice I’ve always shared. Three behaviors that I consider to be significant are: Show-Up, Speak-Up, and Follow-Up. These behaviors, employed consistently, are critical to career advancement, and will set you apart. Show-Up – Many accept invitations to attend a conference, a network meeting or to join a committee. It can be easy to decide to skip them, to just not show up. Those who show up will continue to learn and make new connections. They’ve taken the first step – they’ve shown up. Speak-Up – Too often leaders have expressed to me that people (more often, women, unfortunately,) do not speak up in meetings. Whether on the introverted side or not feeling confident enough to offer a point of view, you will find that if you do speak up, you will not only stand out, but realize it wasn’t as daunting as you initially thought. You are “at the table” for a reason – speak up! The third principle is one that particularly concerns me when it is not done – Follow-Up – How often does someone say they’ll give you a call and you don’t hear from them? How often do you send someone a podcast or article discussed, or make a valuable introduction, yet you rarely hear from them with even a simple acknowledgement or thank you? When I don’t receive any follow up, it makes a statement about that person’s professionalism and diminishes my level of respect for them. Show-Up, Speak-Up, and don’t forget to Follow-Up – It will set you apart as a consummate professional.
Have you ever felt Imposter Syndrome and if so, how did you navigate your way through it?
Several years ago, my colleagues and I were all talking about the most listened to/watched TED Talk by Amy Cuddy. Dr. Cuddy is a Harvard Business Professor and Social Psychologist. The TED Talk is about the impact of our body language upon ourselves. She became known for her research on the Power Pose (our body poses can increase our feelings of confidence.) I’d integrated her research into presentations and workshops I conducted and was delighted that she was going to be a Keynote in the city, talking about her new book on Presence. Our CEO Molly Shepard had been invited to be a panelist following Dr. Cuddy’s presentation. The night prior to the event Molly called me because she was too ill to participate and asked me to take her place. I immediately experienced Imposter Syndrome! “How can I follow Amy Cuddy, and what would I have to say?” However, I decided to say yes, quickly read her book and was a panelist the next day. When a recruiter on the panel said that an interviewee’s body language while on a phone interview didn’t make a difference, I respectfully disagreed with him. (Your body language can make a positive difference, even if you are not seen by the interviewer.) Following the event, a couple of professionals came up to me to thank me for making that point. I realized that one can experience Imposter Syndrome, yet by accepting what appears to be daunting, you can prove that you are NOT an imposter.
What advice do you have for women looking to break into a new industry mid-career?
I successfully broke into a new industry mid-career and have been able to thrive in an environment where my values, strengths and skills have been appreciated and utilized. After starting out in mental health, as a Psychotherapist and with a Master’s in Psychology I had “fallen” into the electronics industry in a sales role (most are surprised to hear this.) After many years in that space, despite using my natural skills to build successful relationships and build business, I’d realized I had no passion for what I was selling, the information I was learning, nor for the connections I’d made. I knew I had to make a change. I completed the exercises in What Color is Your Parachute and had countless informational interviews. Active strategic networking is critical to making an educated change once you have candidly assessed your strengths and values. This led me to discover the Outplacement industry where my counseling background combined with my experience in the corporate environment positioned me perfectly for a new career in that field. I joined a professional organization where I was surrounded by professionals in the business and developed a tight “pitch.” I landed a terrific role with a global firm where I could “do good” (helping many outplaced professionals,) while also “doing well” (financially) in a business development role. With this career, which fit me perfectly, I got involved in professional organizations, held board roles and made countless friends. Moving into Leadership Development, where I am now, was a natural and perfect step. It is absolutely possible to make a mid-career industry change.
What’s One Item You Can’t Live Without?
One item that I cannot live without fits well into the miscellaneous/fun category particularly because I look pretty amusing when wearing it. I can’t live without my snorkel mask! I love to swim laps as often as I can as swimming is the closest thing to meditation for me. When I swim with a snorkel mask, head down the entire time, I’m fully immersed in the water, focused on the exercise, and stretching, delight in the reflections of sunlight on the bottom of the pool, and let my thoughts take me wherever they might go. So, my snorkel mask is one thing I can’t live without.