by Marianne Biangardi and Jennifer Bardot
When you began your career did you ever imagine you would have a leadership role like you have now? What advice would you give your younger self?
I’ve always been a dreamer. I tend to visualize the future and then work toward that. I could always see myself leading a creative team, but when the opportunity came to also be a mom, I went all in with that, too. I created a play-all-day, work-all-night life that allowed me to lay the foundation for what today is Fierce Creative Agency. It took hard work and sacrifice to make it happen. And I loved every minute of it. Still do.
Admittedly there’s a fearless energy within me that I’ve always leaned on. It’s that intuition that taught me to trust myself. While there have been ideas that have failed along the way, the vision of being a leader in a creative space was always a part of it —even when the space was undefined.
I didn’t, however, imagine that the teammates and client relationships I’ve had over the years would shape so much in how I lead. I continually learn from our clients and one another on how to handle success and set back, steps forward and missteps, stressful conversations and laughing so hard your sides hurt, big wins and taco Tuesdays. I am a better leader because of the people who surround me. They allow me that space to explore, to be transparent and to be authentically me.
To my younger self, I’d advise not to let other people’s perceptions or expectations of your life stifle you. You were born to paint your own canvas. To do things your own way. To laugh and make others laugh. To empower and inspire others with positivity so they can find themselves and their voice through creative exploration. Don’t compromise that. And your fearless energy is a gift. Use it.
Who inspires you and why? What is your most valued attribute in the leaders you respect or mentors you have had?
Women who speak their truth inspire me. Those who stand up for the voiceless, the hopeless, the oppressed. Famously known or not, I am daily reminded of how strong we are by the compassion and empathy I see in the women simply doing life their way and helping others in the process.
I had the privilege of working under female leadership several times in my career and the ones that moved boldly, listened to others, pushed wild ideas and thought-provoking concepts forward were the ones that stood out. They didn’t lead by the rules. They lead with passion for their work and confidence in their teams.
I value empathy most in a leader. Those leaders that invite diversity of thought and are open to differing perspectives knowing it will lead to greater outcomes. We know that when we create collaboratively, it’s just better. I believe in servant leadership. And you can’t have that without empathy.
Have you experienced any hardships and how did you overcome the obstacles. When did you know, the business was going to make it?
When I decided that one of our largest clients at the time was disrespecting and devaluing the work of the team, I cut them from our roster. I knew that losing my teammates from the abuse and mistrust we were experiencing was not worth it.
We dropped them. The money wasn’t worth it. The team deserved better. We trusted that new, healthier partnerships would come our way, and they did. I remember thinking if this were a one of my friends dating someone, I would advise they break up. How could I stand there and take that? I learned so much through that experience about who I was as a leader, where my values remain and that taking care of my team will always be the priority.
What do you attribute your success too? Secret to your success...
In its simplest form, I have always believed in doing good work, for good people. I surround myself with talented individuals, who share the same heart and passion for exceptional work who are better than me in various areas. I focus the majority of my attention on empowering my team to show up with their best every day - whatever that looks like in that moment, to create the career path that’s right for them. My desire is to learn from, and grow with each person on my team. When we do that, our clients reap the benefits. Clients get smarter strategy, better creative, deeper thinking, better results and a more enjoyable working experience. Creating collaboratively and inspiring one another is our secret sauce.
What advice would you give other local women leaders?
Surround yourself with positive energy. Understand your value and worth. You have so much to offer. Stop comparing or worrying you don’t have all the answers. You’re not supposed to know it all. Trust your gut. Build your team. And as we say, “Be you. Be Fierce.” Live unapologetically, authentically you. Someone needs who you are in their life today. Show up for them.
Join the GRIT Community:
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8987243/
Jennifer Bardot (ownyourgrit@gmail.com, or
314-630-1451) is CEO and Founder of G.R.I.T. Community For Women.
Marianne Biangardi (mbiangardi@uhy-us.com or 314-322-4871) is Sr. Associate, Marketing and Business Development, at UHY LLP.