Carole Smith
She/Her
"Persistence is a form of resistance"
Resilience
I find solace in nature, meditation, and physical activity. These practices, along with my faith, ground me and foster resilience. A quick and effective technique I use to manage stress is 'box breathing.' This simple exercise can be done anywhere, and it helps to calm the mind and body. I encourage my team to experiment with different stress-relief techniques to find what works best for them.
Purpose-Driven
Over the last year, our company has rolled out the Allyship at work training by Lean In. Inspired by the content, I recommended starting a company-wide Allyship ERG. I co-facilitate the monthly meetings, and this group provides a safe space for open dialogue on important topics like gun violence, reproductive rights, mental health, neurodiversity, and intersectionality. By fostering understanding and empathy, we're building a more inclusive workplace culture that benefits our employees, talent, and clients.
Developmental Leadership
I believe in an adaptive leadership approach, tailoring my guidance to the specific needs of each individual. One recent example is encouraging a team member to attend a prestigious industry conference. This experience not only expanded their professional knowledge but also provided valuable mentoring and networking opportunities within our industry. By supporting their growth, we're empowering our team members to reach their full potential, explore their interests, and bring their authentic selves to work.
Intersectionality
The tragic events of 2020 underscored the importance of addressing systemic racism and inequality. As an African-American woman in a leadership position, I felt a responsibility to drive change within our organization. I co-founded our DEI Council, which has successfully launched 10 ERGs and created space for employees to feel seen and heard. The team's work has been recognized nationally by leading organizations such as Newsweek, and paved the way for a more inclusive workplace for our staff, talent, and clients. This experience has deepened my understanding of the complexities of intersectionality and the power of collective action.
Future Facing Legacy
I hope to be remembered as a leader who fostered a culture of empathy, authenticity, and equity. By encouraging open dialogue and supporting diverse perspectives, I aim to inspire others to become champions of inclusivity. I believe that by empowering individuals to reach their full potential, we can create a more just and equitable future for all. I like to think of my legacy as a ripple effect that influences those around me who in turn influence those around them.