We were lucky to catch up with Jaime Marco recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jaime, so great to have you on the platform and excited to have you share your wisdom with our community today. Communication skills often play a powerful role in our ability to be effective and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your communication skills.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, my fascination with interpersonal communication has been a driving force in shaping my ability to communicate effectively. Stemming from my early intrigue with the nuances of human interaction, my Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication from the University of Central Florida (UCF) provided me with a solid foundation to delve deeper into this field.
From a young age, I found myself captivated by the intricacies of how people speak and listen to one another. This intrinsic interest paved the way for my subsequent endeavors, including various service jobs I undertook since the age of 15. These roles not only exposed me to individuals from diverse backgrounds but also provided invaluable lessons in empathy, active listening, and adaptability. Whether interacting with patrons or collaborating with coworkers, each encounter enriched my understanding of effective communication.
My tenure with Royal Caribbean Cruises further broadened my horizons. As a cruise staff/social host, I had the privilege of engaging with individuals from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds. This immersive experience exposed me to an array of behavioral and communication styles, offering profound insights into the intricacies of human interaction. By navigating interactions with passengers and crew members alike, I honed my ability to communicate across linguistic and cultural barriers, fostering a deeper appreciation for the universal elements of effective communication.
Subsequently, my transition into roles within sales and training provided me with opportunities to refine my communication skills in a professional setting. Pursuing certifications in DISC and coaching programs allowed me to deepen my understanding of interpersonal dynamics and tailor my communication approach to individual preferences and personalities. These experiences not only enhanced my ability to connect with others but also instilled in me a genuine curiosity and empathy for understanding people on a deeper level.
By leveraging my academic background, diverse work experiences, and ongoing professional development, I have cultivated a multifaceted skill set that enables me to navigate the complexities of human interaction with confidence and empathy.
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?
As a seasoned leadership and customer experience coach, with over two decades of experience, my primary focus has been on assisting businesses in their development and growth through team empowerment. I work closely with teams across diverse industries, helping them shift their perspectives and cultivate a cohesive and progressive mindset.
What truly sets my work apart is its transformative power. Witnessing the tangible impact of my efforts reflected in the lives of those I’ve helped is immensely rewarding. I’ve been told that my superpower lies in my unwavering dedication to facilitating growth and development in others. This belief was the driving force behind establishing my business—a commitment to inspiring positive change in the world by empowering individuals to reach their goals.
Currently, I am embarking on two exciting ventures that underscore my commitment to empowerment and connection. Firstly, I am in the process of building a conference specifically tailored for women. This conference aims to bring together women from all walks of life to foster growth, development, shared experiences, and a sense of camaraderie. By creating a platform for women to come together, learn from each other, and support one another, I hope to address the unique challenges women face and empower them to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
Additionally, I am thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of a new podcast. This podcast will showcase the incredible and unique stories of individuals who have overcome challenges, pursued their passions, and made a positive impact on their communities. Through these inspiring narratives, I aim to celebrate resilience, perseverance, and the human spirit while providing listeners with valuable insights and inspiration.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful. First and foremost, advocating for myself has been crucial in navigating my career path. Developing self-awareness and confidence in articulating my strengths, goals, and needs has allowed me to pursue opportunities aligned with my aspirations. Secondly, creating connections with mentors has played a pivotal role in my growth and development. Actively seeking out mentors who offer guidance and support, and approaching them with humility and receptiveness, has provided invaluable insights and opportunities for learning. Embracing the journey’s fluidity is another key lesson I’ve learned. Being open to shifting gears when necessary and embracing uncertainty with resilience and optimism have enabled me to navigate challenges and seize opportunities for growth and exploration.
Alongside these qualities and skills, following one’s passion and heart is essential for success, as it often leads to fulfillment and accomplishment. However, it’s equally important not to take oneself or anything too seriously along the journey. Maintaining a sense of humor and perspective can help navigate the inevitable challenges and setbacks with grace and resilience. Embrace the joy in the process, stay true to your values, and remember to laugh along the way.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One book that has significantly influenced my development is “How Full Is Your Bucket?” by Tom Rath and Donald O. Clifton. This insightful book explores the concept of emotional intelligence and emphasizes the importance of positive interactions in our daily lives. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve gleaned from this book is the idea of being conscious of the emotional “buckets” we fill or empty in ourselves and others with every interaction.
I never go a day without being aware of the buckets I am filling or emptying, thanks to the principles outlined in this book. This awareness helps me stay focused on being curious, not furious, in my interactions with others. It prompts me to look up and truly see people, fostering genuine connections and empathy. Whether I’m engaging with a grocery store attendant, a random stranger, a waiter, or anyone else, I approach each interaction with mindfulness and intentionality, aiming to contribute positively to their emotional well-being.
Moreover, the insights from “How Full Is Your Bucket?” have permeated into my parenting style, guiding me to prioritize positivity and encouragement in my interactions with my family. By consciously filling their buckets with love, affirmation, and support, I aim to nurture their self-esteem and emotional resilience. Overall, this book has been instrumental in shaping my outlook on relationships and communication, reminding me of the profound impact small gestures of kindness and positivity can have on others’ lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.evolvethebusiness.com
- Instagram: @jaimespeaks
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaimeMarcoSpeaks
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimeamarco/
Image Credits
Carissa Warfield, Still Silver Photography
