We interviewed one of Paycom’s regional sales managers, Lauren, to learn more about her leadership journey.
What made you want to be a leader?
I get so much value and fulfillment from being able to help others. Even before I was a leader, I still led others by example and have lived by the motto to always “act as if” I was already in the role of my leader.
Did you have a mentor?
Yes, my mother. My mom was a very solid leadership figure in my life. She always excelled at everything she did because she worked very hard. She instilled the value of work ethic in me and to always accomplish something every day. Over time you can achieve greatness.
How did she impact your career?
I think your internal drive dictates all of your choices, choices dictate actions and actions dictate results. There is a clear lineage from internal drive, which was instilled in me from a young age by my mother, to results.
What skills do you feel have made you an effective leader?
Empathy and leading people the way they want to be led. Caring about the whole person and their overall life fulfillment.
What made you want to be a leader at Paycom?
The leaders who have come before me. You look up to so many people as you navigate in life, and at a certain point, it is very fulfilling to look back and help others navigate their life to achieve their potential. Someone once told me this quote: “Management is about persuading people to do things they do not want to do, while leadership is about inspiring people to do things they never thought they could.” I love the inspiration piece of leadership.
What’s the hardest part of being a leader?
That from time to time there are people who you lead who do not want to help themselves, and therefore, they don’t reach their full potential.
What’s your favorite part of being a leader?
Seeing that “ah ha” moment in the people you lead when you teach them a subject and they understand and execute on it immediately.
What characteristics do you look for in potential leaders?
Empathy, inspiring, positivity, humility, integrity, the ability to influence others and passion for their craft.
What advice do you have for anyone who is interested in leadership?
Lead by example, act as if you already are a leader, watch your leaders not only for the content they bring but also how they lead, manage, deliver trainings and coach.
