In this episode of Taking the Lead, host Christina Brady welcomes Jenny Floros from Advance Forward Consulting. Jenny, a seasoned professional with a career spanning three distinct chapters, shares her insights on leadership, career development, and the nuances of effective management. Starting with her early days in live entertainment ticketing, moving through a transformative period at Groupon, and culminating in her current role leading Advance Forward Consulting, Jenny's journey is a testament to adaptability and growth.
Jenny emphasizes the importance of authentic relationship-building and eliminating negative terminology like 'weakness' from professional vocabularies. Instead, she advocates for focusing on strengths and opportunities for growth. Throughout the discussion, the theme of trust and respect in professional relationships is recurrent. Jenny advises listeners on navigating difficult conversations with superiors and peers, highlighting the value of presenting alternative viewpoints with tact and respect.
The episode also dives into the challenges faced by leaders in various organizational roles, from middle management to C-level executives. Jenny underscores the necessity of a diverse team where each member contributes unique strengths. The conversation culminates with a discussion on the emotional maturity required in leadership, the need for professional respect, and the value of knowing when to assert oneself and when to yield.
This dialogue with Jenny Floros offers valuable insights for professionals at all levels, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership, respect, and the continuous pursuit of personal and professional development.