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In the latest episode of the Trailblazers podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Rebecca Iriarte, a seasoned sales professional with a wealth of experience in both the hospitality and nonprofit sectors. (And a good friend - she was in the Leadership Denver class with Gail in 2017.)
Her journey is about sales and understanding people, embracing challenges, and fostering genuine connections.
Here are three key takeaways from our conversation with Rebecca that we believe can significantly impact teams and leadership.
1. Hospitality is a Lesson in Empathy
Rebecca’s background in the hotel industry taught her more than just how to manage large properties or organize events; it gave her an invaluable perspective on empathy and the importance of every role within a team. She has worked in every department of a large downtown convention hotel, from wet vacuuming rooftops to dicing cases of eggplant in the kitchen. These experiences reinforced the idea that every single department, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in the overall success of an organization.
Leadership Insight: As a leader, it’s essential to appreciate the contributions of every team member, regardless of their position. Understanding the challenges and strengths of each role within your team fosters a culture of respect and empathy. Even if you haven’t walked in their shoes, taking the time to learn and listen can provide you with the perspective needed to lead effectively.
2. Communication and Teamwork: The Backbone of Success
Rebecca emphasized the significance of communication and teamwork throughout her career. Whether it’s managing large-scale events in the hotel industry or fundraising in the nonprofit sector, the principles remain the same: strong communication and teamwork are the foundation of success. And to that, we say - yes, AND! Rebecca shared a memorable piece of advice she received early in her career: When you are in a new role...“Shut up for 30 days.” This advice encouraged her to listen, observe, and understand the dynamics of her team before making any changes. Perhaps a lesson for us all?
Leadership Insight: Effective communication isn’t all about speaking; it’s about listening. Taking the time to truly understand the needs, challenges, and aspirations of your team members builds trust and paves the way for more informed decision-making. Leaders who prioritize listening over speaking are better equipped to make meaningful, positive changes.
3. Self-Care and Fun: Essential Ingredients for Team Morale
Rebecca is known for bringing a sense of fun and energy to her workplaces. She shared a lighthearted story about a “30-second dance button” she kept on her desk, which played 30 seconds of techno music. This little button brought joy and a quick mental break to her and her colleagues, reinforcing the idea that work doesn’t always have to be so serious! Here, here! You know our feelings about #funcomesfirst!
Leadership Insight: Incorporating moments of fun and self-care into the workplace is vital for maintaining team morale and preventing burnout. Simple, playful interactions can help relieve stress and remind everyone that it’s okay to take a breather, even during busy times. As a leader, encouraging these moments can create a more vibrant and connected team.
Rebecca Iriarte’s journey is a testament to the power of transitions, whether it’s moving between industries, roles, or simply shifting perspectives. By embracing empathy, prioritizing communication, and remembering to infuse a bit of fun into our daily routines, we can foster stronger, more resilient teams. Whether you’re in hospitality, sales, or any other field, these lessons are universal—and essential for effective leadership.
Rebecca is currently open to work opportunities! Find her LinkedIn page HERE.
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