Reflecting on The Road to Female Executive Success: Insights from The Larry H. Miller Company's Executive Women's Panel
Last week, I had the distinct honor of moderating a conversation with three of Larry H. Miller Company's most accomplished female executives - Courtney Palmer (CFO, Destination Homes), Sarah Starkey (Chief Legal Officer), and Michelle Smith (President, Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment). The panel, organized by the South Valley Chamber, provided attendees with some hard earned wisdom and vital lessons on the road to becoming an accomplished executive.
1. Embracing Diverse Leadership Styles
The panel vividly highlighted that great leadership transcends a one-size-fits-all approach. Courtney, Sarah, and Michelle, each with their unique experiences, perspectives, and leadership styles, exemplified that there's no single mold for "good leadership." This diversity is the cornerstone of robust teams - it's about complementing and challenging each other, rather than seeking uniformity.
2. The Courage to Step Outside Comfort Zones
A recurring theme was the importance of embracing challenges. Whether it was shifting industries or relocating states, these women have shown that growth often lies in discomfort. Their stories were powerful testaments to the value of betting on oneself and stepping beyond familiar territories.
3. Prioritizing for a Fulfilling Life
Understanding and setting clear priorities is crucial for balancing career and personal aspirations. The analogy of the crystal ball and the rubber ball was particularly striking - focusing on what's critical ('crystal balls') while allowing flexibility with less crucial aspects ('rubber balls'). This perspective is vital for maintaining focus without losing balance.
4. The Power of Mentorship and Advocacy
Finally, the panel shed light on the importance of mentorship and advocacy in one's career. The way these women have supported each other and built networks of male and female mentors and sponsors is inspiring. It underscores the need to both seek guidance and provide it, fostering a culture of mutual growth and support.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the South Valley Chamber for the invitation to moderate this panel and to Courtney, Sarah, and Michelle for their candidness and invaluable insights. Their wisdom and experiences are a wonderful guide for aspiring leaders and a reminder of the diverse forms that effective leadership can take.
#LeadershipDiversity #ExecutiveWisdom #SouthValleyChamber #EmpoweringLeadership
