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In this week's article:
Meet Dana Marshall of PRO*ACT! Learn about Dana's:
🔥 Insight on the role of an HR Director as a business partner
🙌 Strategy for team motivation and empowerment
📚 Advice on the importance of a continuous learning mindset
First, a few metrics:
Time at PRO*ACT: 8 months
Total management experience: 15 years
Currently managing: 2 employees
Dana's leadership style:
How do you get ready for the day?
My morning routine consists of drinking a full glass of water as soon as I wake up to rehydrate after hours of sleep, then spending a few minutes practicing mindful breathing. This tends to increase my focus, and sets a calm tone for my day. On my commute to the office, I like to listen to a podcast or audio book to wake up my brain!
How do you approach problem-solving?
First, I try to understand the problem that I am facing by asking questions and seeking clarification. Then I collect relevant data and context, which usually involves researching, talking to people involved, and looking at past experiences. Finally, I brainstorm a range of solutions, evaluate the pros and cons of those options, then select the solution that best addresses the problem.
What's an example of a challenge you're facing right now?
One challenge I am facing is learning a new industry. As an experienced HR professional, I have many years of experience and skills in recruiting, employee engagement, benefits, employee relations, etc. But, my role as an HR Director requires that I operate as a business partner to our management team, and that means understanding how the business works. Since Produce is a new industry for me, there is a learning curve. It is exciting to learn something new, and be able to expand my skill set and knowledge in an industry that is key to the Salinas/Monterey Peninsula area.
How do you motivate your team to perform well?
In my opinion, the best way to motivate a team is to set clear expectations, promote open communication amongst the team (including feedback that I might not want to hear!) and reward the team (collectively and individually). Rewards don't always have to be monetary... simply thanking a team member for their contribution can go a long way. I am also a fan of empowering the team to make informed decisions... smart people can generate great ideas, and it also contributes to their professional growth. And, of course, I always support the team in any way possible. Sometimes that means rolling up my sleeves and working on whatever task is needed in the moment (that can be called leading by example)!
Who are your leadership role models?
Right now I am closely following Marcus Buckingham, leadership guru and author of many books, including First, Break All The Rules, and Now, Discover Your Strengths. His principles are interesting to me and a little "out of the box" compared to traditional HR methods and ideas.
What advice would you give someone new to leadership?
Take any opportunity to learn as much as possible. Work with a mentor or a coach, rely on your HR person for help, enroll in as many educational opportunities as possible.
Contact Dana:
Connect with Dana via LinkedIn!
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