Erin Thomas’ Post

If you want to grow professionally, you should have regular development opportunities to invest in yourself or for your company to invest in you. That means certifications, and conferences, but also leadership development and networking as well. Two of my favorites are recruiting now: - The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership's Political Leadership Program, a 10-month perspective-changing adventure which has given me contacts in nearly every industry all over the Commonwealth, and a sense of how different levels of connection function (local, regional, state, federal) as well as bipartisan relationship-building (it's real!) An incredible network builder with more than 30 years of alumni in Virginia. - SWELL by Rebelle, an in-tune woman-centered support system that is for high achievers who don't want to burn out. It's my invisible cheerleading squad, and recognizes both visionary changes and the need to change structural issues that pile on gendered daily burdens that inhibit career growth. Monthly virtual meetings to keep you tethered, but also some great in person events in Richmond as well. An incredible network builder, for small business owners, consultants, corporate leaders and more.... #leadership #investment #bipartisan #womenlead #virginia #PLP #SWELL Links in comments.

Have you considered the impact of your closest connections on your leadership journey? Early in my career, I overlooked the power of connections. It was only after facing the challenges of leadership in isolation did I recognise, as Jim Rohn famously said, "You are the average of the 5 people you surround yourself with." This insight became a cornerstone in my approach to cultivating executive presence, teaching me the value of surrounding myself with individuals who inspire growth and offer support. Connecting with the right people isn't about transactional relationships; it's about deep engagement and bringing value to each other's lives. As I learned from my mentor Janine Garner, it's about placing yourself in a network that fuels your personal and professional success. Are you cultivating connections that elevate your leadership, or are you too caught up in the day-to-day to nurture your network? What might you be missing out on? Are you ready to transform your leadership journey and surround yourself with inspiring female finance leaders? The CFO Women's Circle is your opportunity to connect, grow, and be part of a community that understands the unique challenges and triumphs of being a female CFO. Let’s cultivate connections that not only enrich our professional lives but also empower us to achieve our fullest potential. Take the first step towards a more connected and impactful leadership role. Contact me to learn more about joining the CFO Women's Circle - https://lnkd.in/eDmEMBkx #isolation #executivepresence #connection #CFOs #executivecoaching #networking #CFOWomensCircle

❗ Unpopular belief incoming❗ When we look at the most successful leaders in their industry they tend to stay... in their industry. And they have built their reputation by 1) Staying with their know-how and 2) reiterating over a long period of time. This doesn't mean you shouldn't or won't reinvent yourself along the way, but you continue to build in your lane instead of bouncing around. What I'm seeing too much, especially with the next generation of workers, is the message that changing left and right is a good thing, when in most cases (unpopular belief again) it may just be undermining their skillset and opportunities. If you're an employee, give yourself time to grow ROOTS. If you're in management or leadership, allow time for employees to grow said ROOTS. No roots, no fruits 🍇 . It's not until we water until we see the fruits of our labor. If you're constantly digging up your seed and moving it, we're never going to get there together. #employeebenefits #benefits #insurancebrokers #leadership

What can we learn from our national intelligence officers for leading across different industries and sectors? Sue Gordon is a history maker and one of the most inspiring, brilliant, and human-centered leaders I have the privilege to know. During her tenure, she led the creation of the In-Q-Tel, the CIA's unprecedented public-private partnership VC firm. When she retired as the Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, she was the highest ranking woman in our US national intelligence. Sue is also a professor with our Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business and a distinguished Duke University alumnus. What makes Sue so compelling include superpowers such as 1. the ability to see around corners and imagine new possible futures, 2. her ability to take the complex and frame it into something we can all understand and take action on, 3. her resilience and optimism, and 4. her depth of care. In this 3 minute video, she unpacks the essence of decision-making and the imperative role of embracing uncertainty in driving progress. She also shares a common leadership trap. As you listen to this, what’s your key takeaway? For more insights on unlocking team superpowers visit the Leadership Playbook: Superpowers newsletter at: https://lnkd.in/dtQe2KAs #leadership #teamwork #inspiration #SuperpowerswithSanyin #collaboration #innovation #WomensHistoryMonth

The Power of Elder Leadership: Guiding the Path to Wisdom at Work Experience, like fine wine, gets better with time. Are we harnessing the full potential of elder leadership in our workplaces? Some perspectives to consider: 👁️🗨️ Vision: Elder leaders bring decades of insights and a broader perspective. Their vision is not just for now, but for the long-term sustainability of the organization. 🤝 Strategy: Wise leaders excel in strategic thinking. They've seen trends come and go, and their ability to navigate complex challenges is unparalleled. 💡 Innovation: Contrary to stereotypes, elder leaders can be innovation catalysts. Their wisdom helps bridge the generation gap and fosters innovation that stands the test of time. 🌍 Collaboration: Elders often excel in collaboration. They understand the value of diverse teams and can mediate conflicts with grace. As Barbara Waxman shares in her book - The Middlescence Manifesto: Igniting the Passion of Midlife - "Ageism devalues one of our most important resources— people with experience, knowledge, vitality and the courage to create change." Let's challenge ageism and unlock the untapped potential of elder leadership! Embrace their wisdom to drive your organisation forward. I'd love to know how you are championing the elder voices in your organisation? #ElderLeadership #WisdomAtWork #SeasonedVoices #AgeIsanAsset #TheWisdomBridgeProject

Great Leaders Make the Difference Great leaders in my opinion are like archeologist. They know exactly where to dig and how to dig in order to unearth undiscovered potential. They believe in investing in their employees for the long-term, even if there is no immediate return. As a past people leader, I have been fortunate to learn from exceptional leaders like Pam Cole who understand that employer-employee relationships are far more transformational, than transactional. Pam understood where the organization was headed and why, and what was needed to help others join her on the journey. Watching us grow and develop, even if we took what we've learned elsewhere, seemed to be the greatest gratification for her. I remember meeting with Pam and advising that we were in jeopardy of losing a multi-million-dollar account. She seemed more focused on the people than the money. That gave my team the drive to not only save the account, but to further develop it. I have learned over the years that there is difference between a boss and being a great leader. That bosses are more focused on their own trajectory and making a name for themselves, than the trajectory of their team. It is a disservice to the employee if all the employees got out of the relationship was a paycheck. Let's all strive to invest in our employees, create a culture of support and growth, and become the great leaders we were meant to be. #leadership #greatleaders

What does it take to become an Executive – to make the move to the team at the top and have an even higher impact? Our High Impact Lab team has been sharing our own perspectives on this, reflecting on the incredible leaders we have seen not only move into these roles but who stand out from so many others. Since then, I came across the article below written by Adam Bryant, author of The Leap to Leader. His list is not much different than ours. His top level actions are to: ·      Be clear about what you stand for ·      Hone your decision-making ·      Set the bar for your team’s performance ·      Master the art of compartmentalization ·      Build self-awareness ·      Craft your personal narrative We would add, to name only a few: ·      Shift from vertical thinking to horizontal thinking ·      Recognize the vital organizational investments and trade off’s ·      Drive innovation and sustainable productivity ·      Expand influence to across the organization and industry ·      Optimize the sustainable output of individuals and teams What would you add? How do leaders become an #executive with impact? Thanks to the HIL team for input and continued work with exceptional executives (including future executives): Sue Matheson, Erin Sills, MA, PCC, Philip Edgell, Erica Groschler, Heather Lehmann, Debra Innes, Alexandra Phizicky, PCC, CEC, Trina Boivin

This is to the seasoned leaders, those adorned with well-earned stripes and years of experience. I see you. I understand the solitude that comes with accomplishment and experience. I know the weight of decisions, the responsibility of guiding many, and the quiet moments when you not only carry the workload but also the emotions, dreams, and aspirations of your entire team. Every evening, you bring home more than just files and tasks. You carry questions about the quality of the decisions you've made. You bear the burden of the important tasks that remain undone while attending to the urgent ones. You bear emotions silently, without a confidant to turn to. And always trying hard to operate in the background, handling immense duties so that your team can shine brightly in recognition. All while being forever nagged by the unfulfilled desire to make a greater impact. We are quick to provide leadership support for budding leaders, technical heads, and emerging talents, but I see a gap for you, stalwarts, the experienced ones. **Let me be clear**: Your steadfast commitment, resilience, and unwavering dedication do not go unnoticed. You are heroes, and while the spotlight might shine brighter on newer programs and emerging leaders, your enduring flame lights the way for countless others. I commend you, I stand ready to support you, and above all, I salute you. #SeniorLeadership #Changemakers #TheChangemaker

Are you an aspiring business leader born before 2001? If that a yes, you'll already have dealt with some challenging questions in your career. Probably managed your way through a few manic panics and overseen situations you look back on with pride? One question leaders always ask me is: Where are all the good people? Can you add some more candidates to the shortlist? ( that's always an interesting one - "shortlist") Therefore, when you slot into your leadership role, you'll be asking a similar question: "Why can't we get the people with the skills we need to grow this business?" And the answer is; because they can't spell HIPPOPOTAMUS It may not give you a promotion, but at least you'll understand the answer. In 10-15 years from now, all todays 5-15 year olds who don't have access to breakfast , lunch and tea will be entering the work place. When they can't spell, add up or develop the concepts to effectively take part in the workforce at least, as a leader, you'll know why. Because they could not spell HIPPOPOTAMUS Our future leaders are being created today for all our futures. It must be worth investing in ALL our futures for the future? Isn't it? #skillspaybills #nymanscareeradvice #freeschoolmeals #childrenswellbeing #future #leadership #investment #magicbreakfast