Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Candice Simmons. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Candice , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Throughout my journey, I’ve come to deeply appreciate and honor the weight that comes with being the sole representative in a room. Recognizing the delicate balance between risk and reward in embracing our unique voices and perspectives is especially crucial in the early stages of our careers, where the perceived risks can outweigh the potential rewards.
Personally, I’ve evolved to bet on myself, understanding that the true reward lies in speaking up rather than remaining silent. I acknowledge the responsibility placed upon me by those who aren’t present in the room; they depend on me to amplify their voices. My journey towards confidence and effectiveness has been multifaceted.
Above all, my unwavering faith and connection with God remain my cornerstone, providing strength and guidance. Building profound relationships, both personal and professional, is equally vital. Cultivating a network of mentors, sponsors, advocates, and friends ensures a daily reservoir of support that empowers me to show up authentically.
Understanding my core values, purpose, and passions serves as a grounding force, enabling me to consistently align with my beliefs. As I navigate these spaces, I approach them with a mindset of positive intent, speaking from a place of love, while steadfastly holding onto my voice. Embracing creative tension, challenging norms, and fearlessly engaging in difficult conversations are essential facets of my approach.
Crucially, I am resolute in my commitment not to perpetually be the sole representative. My primary goal is to create opportunities for others, ensuring that the spaces I occupy become more inclusive and diverse. This journey is not just about my personal growth but about forging pathways for collective success and empowerment.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am currently immersed in the heartfelt relaunch of my podcast, “Girl Listen with Candice Simmons,” a project that resonates deeply with the multitude of roles I juggle as a woman. Recognizing the daily challenges we face, my personal mission is to inspire women not only to lead better lives but also to leave indelible footprints on the world.
“Girl Listen” is more than just a podcast; it’s a sisterhood platform designed to encourage women to confront the truth, tackle critical questions, and gain insights for moving forward. It’s an intimate encounter with the most important person—YOU! With a commitment to keeping it fresh, honest, and entertaining, “Girl Listen” embodies the essence of a sisterhood that goes beyond the airwaves.
Drawing on my dynamic leadership experience with a distinguished 20-year career in the banking industry, I’ve demonstrated exceptional expertise across various business lines and held leadership roles in Learning and Development, Community Development, and Corporate Social Responsibility. Passionate about social impact and championing racial equity, I’ve made significant contributions in non-profit leadership development, board governance, community development, internal and external DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), and culture engagement. So looking ahead to 2024, I’m excited to announce the launch of my new venture, Lead Well Solutions. As an entrepreneur, I am driven by an unwavering commitment to positive change. Lead Well Solutions is dedicated to empowering leaders to lead effectively and thrive personally and professionally. We believe that holistic leadership is the key to organizational success. Our core mission at Lead Well Solutions is to guide leaders in creating environments of inclusivity, well-being, and innovation. Through tailored strategies and dynamic tools, we aim to shape a future where leadership is synonymous with operational excellence and personal fulfillment. Our vision is to contribute to sustainable progress and foster a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Stay tuned for more exciting updates on this upcoming launch.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
- Embrace Challenges: Embracing discomfort is the key to growth. I’ve learned to get comfortable being uncomfortable, understanding that without challenges, there is no preparation for the next level. It’s crucial to continually challenge oneself to foster personal and professional development.
- Excel in Your Current Role: Flourish where you are planted. Being great at what you do is a stepping stone to success. Seize every moment to learn, seek feedback, expand your network, amplify your impact, and build your brand beyond your role and title. By excelling right where you are, you create a foundation for future growth and advancement.
- Prioritize with Purpose: Achieving balance is an art, and it starts with prioritization. Identify what truly matters to you in both your career and personal life. Knowing what’s important allows you to navigate the demands of both realms effectively. By understanding your priorities, you can create a harmonious blend that aligns with your aspirations.
This three-fold approach, centered on embracing challenges, excelling in your current role, and purposeful prioritization, serves as a blueprint for women leaders aspiring to make meaningful strides in their careers and lives. It’s a call to action to step out of comfort zones, excel in every opportunity, and prioritize with clarity and purpose.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
I recently revisited the timeless wisdom of “Who Moved My Cheese” after a decade, and it served as a powerful reminder that change is the only constant. How we respond to change is pivotal to the success and mission of our brand. Candidly, I’ve embodied each character at different points in my career—sometimes swiftly recognizing change, at other times proactively responding, and occasionally denying and resisting until it was almost too late.
The key takeaway is that change is inevitable, and our ability to adapt is paramount. Rather than resisting, it’s essential to find ways to enjoy the transformative journey. Remaining vigilant and avoiding complacency ensures that we’re always in a position of power to adapt swiftly. The journey is an opportunity for growth—learning to embrace failure, learning fast, and making quick adjustments. It’s a perpetual cycle because the cheese will move again, reminding us not to get too comfortable.
In essence, the dance with change is a continuous evolution. By staying alert, enjoying the journey, and mastering the art of rapid adaptation, we not only navigate change successfully but also thrive in a dynamic environment. This approach empowers women to embrace change as a constant companion on their leadership journey, turning each shift into a stepping stone toward greater success and fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://candicesimmons.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachingbycandice/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candice-simmons-66230074/
- Other: https://candicesimmons.com/podcast
Image Credits
1st photo is credit Orlando Economic Partnership Black Board Leadership Institute. 2nd photo credit is Enterprising Black Orlando
