We recently connected with Lemar Ingram and have shared our conversation below.
Lemar, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into it. We’re really interested in hearing about you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant, or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one in the room like me allows me to share a perspective that, more often than not, is uncommon. It’s my responsibility to articulate and clarify the perspective I have shared with others like myself. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the subject matter and clearly articulate my perspective.
Thanks, so before we move on, could you share more about yourself?
Professionally, I am a sales director at a major cruise line. While my key responsibility is outbound sales, I am most excited by how I accomplish my goals. I develop and coach both sales leaders and agents, Enabling them to achieve their personal/ professional goals. My book, The G-Code, is a manual aimed at highlighting the similarities between hip-hop culture and corporate America. By outlining the lessons the art form has taught us, I’m able to unlock experiences and lessons that enhance performance and professional growth.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
As a hip-hop fan, the desire to be an MC allowed me to craft a unique communication style. I was able to contextualize concepts and connect data patterns quickly because of my love for freestyling. I developed a nonlinear approach to problem-solving because I approached it with the same philosophy as a musical composition. Let it flow, circle back and punctuate key points, and bring it all together for a masterful final product. Lean into what makes you unique. Rely on your communication and presentation skills.
To close, let’s chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you.
My parents afforded me the luxury of exploration. I was not bound by a timeline to achieve particular goals or accomplishments. This freedom allowed me to explore the arts, particularly the written word and music. It helped me to identify my passion and hone what I was good at.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gcbtb.com
- Instagram: the_G_code_btb
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/lemaringram
