Pioneering Beyond the Pandemic: Leadership for Women & Men

On October 21st, the Education Committee welcomed back our members and guests to the chapter’s FIRST in person Education Program since January 2020 at the Crowne Plaza in Princeton, NJ.

President & CEO of New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA), Michele N. Siekerka, Esq. presented: “Pioneering Beyond the Pandemic, Leadership for Women & Men”. Michele spoke to attendees about leadership pre, during and “post” COVID-19, sharing that the way we used to lead and do business has forever changed. Leaders along with everyone else had to guess what?

PIVOT!

Michele talked about the importance of leaders to not only show up, but to also be present for their teams. Connecting with employees is more critical than ever. Learning to lean in and listen to what they are saying and their needs to continue to be productive in their new working environments.

Michele also discussed the importance of remembering your company’s mission and vision and noted if we work toward values the results will come naturally. She challenged us as leaders, to take ownership of mistakes and continue to drive towards the purpose of our organizations.

During COVID did you find something that worked better for your workforce?

Maybe it was flexible working hours, hybrid working options or working fully remote. Michele calls these “COVID Keepers” and encouraged us to continue these practices in our organizations to keep our teams productive and well-balanced.

I left the program feeling proud of the association I work for, and the leadership I had and continue to have as we start to dig out of and enter the “Post” COVID workforce.

The Membership and Education Committees also celebrated two of our members for their many years of membership with the chapter. JoAnn Mitchell celebrated 25 years, and Tristan Nelsen 20 years with MPI. Both JoAnn & Tristan currently serve on the MPI New Jersey Education Committee.

Thank you to our members, guests, and sponsors, Wind Creek Bethlehem, Mohegan Sun Poconos, and the Crowne Plaza Princeton, for being part of this memorable event. It felt GREAT to be back and pioneer beyond the pandemic!