Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, episode 17, 'Be Genuine & Bring Your "A" Game' with Michele Siekerka.
Michele Siekerka is the President and CEO of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association. I have had the honor of working with and for Michele, and now serve as a consultant and lead for the NJBIA's Not-for-Profit Council.
The NJBIA is the largest employer association in the U.S. and represents over 1 million employees. Members range from entrepreneurs, Main Street businesses, to organizations with over 2,000 employees. Over the last 110 years, the organization has always been about providing support to businesses across all 21 counties in NJ.
At the heart of the organization is the amazing advocacy arm. Organizations of all sizes have the opportunity to tap in and share their voice. Members receive a multitude of cost saving benefits that include health benefit options for any size business, 401k plans, virtual HR support, short-term disability insurance, office supplies, UPS savings, and more.
Michele shares information about three distinct councils that provide ongoing connection for members: Women Business Leaders, Not-for-Profit, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
These councils meet monthly via a virtual platform for now.
The NJBIA prides itself on being able to bring leaders to the table from across the state. They share their expertise, business challenges, and help to together build upon ideas and solutions.
Michele was asked the question of why should small to mid-size businesses consider adding the NJBIA as a line item in their budget during this difficult time? There were many reasons, but the simple answer, "you can't go it alone."
One of Michele's proudest moments during the height of the pandemic was when the NJBIA gave a voice to some businesses that were left out of some of the guidelines that were shared from the state level. Hear the incredible advocacy efforts that Michele and the advocacy team put together for this distinctive group.
Some wonderful advice that Michele shares, "be genuine and always, always, always bring your A game." She also shares the importance of exuding from your heart why something is so important to you, as it becomes infectious as well as contagious. There is a great story in here about being nice. Listen in!
Here is something that many leaders can adopt that Michele shares which is "empower everyone to be a decision maker from their chair in the organization". Think about the meaning of that and how you can truly get the best out of your employees when they feel like you are standing with and behind them.
In regards to work/life balance, Michele feels that there is no specific magic bullet of how to make it happen. It truly is a commitment that only we can make to ourselves.
Take a listen to Michele's answer to the question, if I knew then what I know now?
There are a lot of nuggets shared after this question was answered. You don't want to miss the ending.
Next week join us for the Inspire Series! Two episodes launch in one week. On Monday, April 19, Scott Chesney is my guest. Scott is a the 'Commander in Change' and serves as a Life Coach and speaker. Then, on Wednesday, April 21, Scott is my guest co-host and together we interview, Michael Reuter. Michael formerly served as the Director of the Gerald P. Buccino ’63 Center for Leadership Development for Seton Hall University, and is a Leadership Coach and mentor.
Please also view this episode on the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel.
Have a fabulous week!