Q: Tell us about yourself.
I’m a West Fargo transplant and have been loving life in the FMWF for the last two years. I have an amazing husband, Mitch, and three sons: Landan, Cullen, and Nolan (with another baby on the way). I’ve spent most of my career in higher dducation, from residence life to development/ fundraising. In that world, I learned I thrive when I work with people in their personal and professional growth.
I currently serve as a director of programs for the FMWF Chamber of Commerce and love that every day is a little different when I walk into the office. My primary role is developing individuals in the community so they can be the best version of themselves at work and in life.
When I’m not working I am coaching volleyball, spending time with friends and family, drinking coffee, and enjoying life!
Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?
A: Slow Down Already: Taking the time to get it right.
Q: Why are you passionate about this topic?
A: I’m passionate about this topic because I’ve lived it. In this world that is calling us to be faster, better, higher every day, what would it look like to slow down? What will it take for us to realize that speed does not always bring success? Let’s talk about slowing down, taking time on each rung of the ladder of life to truly enjoy the moments and savor the lessons. We will dive into practical ways we can slow down, how a no can lead to the best yes, and some of the lessons I’ve learned through failing at a fast pace, and how the slower life has actually been the biggest catalyst towards my growth.
Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?
A: Learn to be okay when you fail and learn to surround yourself with the people who help you see the opportunity in the failure.
Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?
A: In 2022, my husband encouraged me to take a leap of faith and apply for a job in Fargo at seven months pregnant. I got the job and we took another leap by moving our family for my career. The people I’ve met over the last two years have impacted my career in ways I never imagined.
Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?
A: By taking the time to reflect on the impact I’m having—no matter how big or how small. It helps to have a support system that sees my strength when I don’t. The people who champion me in low points AND in the high points. I never let a day end without taking at least one minute to see the good that happened throughout the day—it gives me that drive to make the next day as good or better than the day before!
Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?
A: The ability to see potential in their employees and push, encourage, and support them to reach that potential.
Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?
A: I get back up, dust myself off, try something new, and keep going. Sometimes that looks graceful and sometimes I cry first but in every situation, I keep going. Recognizing that the setbacks and challenges make us stronger, more resilient individuals makes them worth it.
Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?
A: Put yourself out there to have coffee with someone you look up to who is ahead of your professional journey—it doesn’t matter if they’re the same age as you. Make sure to ask questions, listen to their answers and learn from the lessons they’ve lived. Our best resource is the people around us.
Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
A: This is a work in progress for me but a few things I’ve found successful are taking email notifications off my phone, keeping an organized calendar at work so if I feel stressed about something it’s easy to check, and having things to look forward to in my personal life so I’m not tempted to let work and life bleed together too much.
Q: What are some emerging trends or technologies that excite you the most?
A: I love to see workplaces that support the individual as a person rather than simply as an employee. It’s been so rewarding working for a company that provides us with opportunities to grow personally as they know that will bleed into our potential as professionals. I’m also hoping the four-day work week starts trending!
Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?
A: The best way to grow, I’ve learned, is by paying attention to the people around you. We can learn so much by having a conversation with a co worker or sitting next to someone new at an event. I’m also a junkie for all things personality assessment and structural growth opportunities— so things like DisruptHR, Chamber events, and being actively involved in my church light my fire and I love getting to learn from others!
Q: Can you share an example of a project or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?
A: This past year, I had the honor of seeing the Leadership FMWF program through from selection to graduation and it was so rewarding! In my position, I have the privilege of working with volunteer committee members who model, to me, what it looks like to value our community enough to give of your time and provide growth opportunities for others. Leadership FMWF is a development program through The Chamber that allows participants to grow personally and professionally while diving deeper into what drives our community. It’s such a unique program and I am learning alongside participants!
Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?
A: Trust. It starts with trust—if leaders in the workplace can build trust amongst staff, the opportunities for a great culture are endless.
Setarah Recommends
by John Mark Comer
– Specifically the EnneaSummer 2024 episodes
