Look Book

42 www.thejewelrybook.com H o w t o B e a F e m a l e B a d a s s I n s p I r e d s e l l I n g When I started out in the jewelry industry in my 20s, I was precocious. There wasn't much I was afraid to try; you name it, I went after it. I earned a top sales rep award for Artcarved for five con- secutive years, a rookie-of-the-year award, and more. I have lived life to the fullest as a female in the diamond industry for 30-plus years. I've also noticed that as I grow wiser and hone my skills, my self-assuredness is heightening. My energy and confidence let me tackle life's ups and downs head on. Don't get me wrong; it's not that my life is a piece of cake. However, after years of experience in this crazy diamond industry I feel more and more empowered, and that is due to the inspiration and direction I've received from many amazing female leaders around me. These are women who continue to inspire me to step into my power and ambition despite any negative situations that arise. When Jennifer Heebner shared with me that this issue was about women, I immediately thought of the women in our industry who are positive contributors and badasses. There are many with resounding strength and clarity, two important traits to be an influential colleague. These women remind me of how important it is to leave more than you take, to give more than you receive, to be grateful for the oppor- tunity to do that, and to want to help each oth- er succeed. I could list 50-plus female leaders in our industry who have had a positive influence on me, but there's not enough room in the issue! I'll name just a few who inspire me and tell you why. Andrea Hill, owner of Hill Management Group, is an amazing consultant and has confi- dence! The best leaders I know are confident, and her confidence is contagious. I am natu- rally drawn to her, seek her advice, and feel more assurance as a result. Kelly Bargabos is the past COO of Memoire and vice president of finance at Hearts On Fire and is decisive! All leaders must be able to make tough decisions—it goes with the job. Kelly understands that in certain situations, difficult and timely decisions must be made in the best interests of the entire organization. She also knows when not to act unilaterally but instead to foster collaborative decision- making. Janice Mack Talcott is the president and CEO of Janice Mack & Associates and is a leader who plans ahead and is supremely organized. She thinks through multiple scenarios and the possible impacts of decisions while considering viable alternatives, making plans, and strategiz- ing successful outcomes. As for me, I hope to inspire others as so many women in our industry have enlightened me. I try to be someone who communicates clearly, concisely, and often, and by doing so, motivat- ing others to give his or her best all the time. I challenge everyone I coach by setting high but attainable standards and expectations, then giv- ing support, tools, training, and latitude to pur- sue goals and become the best employee he or she can possibly be. Are you prepared to help others and offer them a different perspective? It's challenging, empowering, and life affirming to be an industry badass! Yet more are still needed. What's your plan to become one? Pat Henneberry is an Iowa transplant to Texas whose 30 years in jewelry sales have earned her numerous awards for training and brand building. She has traveled the world as a salesperson, trainer, and founder of The Jewelry Coach, developing some of the most powerful educational materials and tools used today. Reach her at Pat@thejewelrycoach.com. After years of experi- ence in this crazy diamond industry I feel more and more empowered, and that is due to the inspira- tion and direction I've received from many amazing female leaders around me. Pat Henneberry By Pat HenneBerry How to Be a Female Badass Inspire others and channel your inner boss with examples from some of the industry's seasoned female talents

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