Meet Michelle Evans

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michelle Evans. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Michelle, thanks for sitting with us today to chat about topics that are relevant to so many. One of those topics is communication skills, because we live in an age where our ability to communicate effectively can be like a superpower. Can you share how you developed your ability to communicate well?

I think the first clue that communication would become one of my superpowers showed up early — on every report card. “Good student, but talks too much in class.” Looking back, I see that as my natural curiosity at work — a desire to connect, question, and share ideas.

Today, that curiosity is still central to how I communicate — but it’s been refined and sharpened through two decades in marketing and global program leadership, and more recently, through formal coaching training. A few years ago, I earned my Co-Active Coach certification from the Coaches Training Institute (CTI), where I learned how to lead powerful conversations grounded in curiosity, active listening, and presence. That experience deeply influenced my communication style — helping me not only speak more clearly but listen more intentionally.

Throughout my career, I’ve used communication as a tool for alignment — turning abstract strategies into tangible outcomes. Whether I’m presenting a transformation roadmap to a Board of Directors or rolling out a global skilling initiative that saved over 8,000 hours of manual work, I’ve learned to combine clarity with context, and data with story.

And like most skills, communication is one I’ve built through trial and iteration. When something doesn’t land — a pitch that falls flat, or a conversation that creates confusion instead of clarity — I pause and reflect. I often go back to a mentor or coach to break it down: Could I have been more concise? More compelling? More curious?

What I’ve learned is this: Communication isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about knowing which questions to ask, how to adapt your message to the moment, and how to create a space where others feel seen, heard, and energized to act. That’s the skill I’ve honed — and one I continue to practice every day.

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?

Putting People at the Center: Why I’m Focused on Building a More Connected Woodinville

Whether it’s scaling global systems at Microsoft or helping neighbors navigate city policy, my work has always been about connecting the dots — between strategy and execution, people and purpose, data and story.

For the last two decades, I’ve led large-scale marketing and operational initiatives, mostly at Microsoft, where I’ve had the privilege of aligning global teams and systems to achieve measurable impact. From streamlining skilling initiatives to save 8,000+ hours to coaching leaders through business-critical transitions, my goal has always been the same: clarity, alignment, and progress.

That mindset is exactly what I’ve brought to my role on the Woodinville City Council.

When I ran for office, I heard from neighbors who felt like their voices weren’t being heard — who were tired of confusion and misdirection around housing, growth, and city priorities. I ran on a platform of transparency, data-informed decision making, and authentic community engagement.

What I’ve found most energizing in this work is helping people understand the “why” behind the “what.”

We’re at a critical moment in Woodinville: the decisions we make now about housing, economic development, and public infrastructure will shape our community for decades. I believe in thoughtful growth — in planning for the future without losing what makes Woodinville special. That means ensuring our policies support local businesses, protect green spaces, and create housing options for teachers, first responders, seniors, and young families.

What’s next?
I’m focused on expanding how we communicate with and include residents in shaping the future of our city. We’re working to demystify city processes, build tools that offer better access to information, and increase resident participation in local decisions. At the same time, I’m collaborating across regional and state levels to make sure Woodinville’s voice is heard — especially when it comes to housing targets and infrastructure funding.

My brand — whether professionally or as a public servant — is built on transparency, transformation, and trust. I don’t believe in gimmicks or games. I believe in showing up, doing the work, and bringing people along for the journey. Because when we do that, we don’t just solve problems — we build a stronger, more connected community.

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?

Three Things That Made the Biggest Difference — and What I’d Tell Anyone Starting Out

Looking back, the three things that have been most impactful in my journey are:
1) Learning to communicate with clarity and purpose
2) Getting comfortable navigating ambiguity
3) Taking ownership of my growth — even when no one was handing me a roadmap

Early in my career, I assumed good communication was about having the right words. Over time, I learned it’s actually about creating alignment. Whether you’re leading a team, pitching an idea, or giving feedback — your job is to create clarity and forward momentum. And that only comes with practice, feedback, and being willing to get it wrong sometimes. My advice? Seek out mentors or peers who will tell you the truth, not just what sounds nice.

The second is about being at peace with not having all the answers. Some of my most pivotal projects started with very little structure and a lot of uncertainty. I didn’t wait for someone to tell me what to do — I asked questions, looked for patterns, and designed my own path forward. For anyone just starting out, this is a superpower: learn to operate in the grey, and you’ll always be valuable.

Lastly — and this one’s big — take ownership of your own development. I’ve invested in coaches, certifications (like my training with CTI), and stretch projects even when they didn’t come with a title or raise. Don’t wait for permission. Decide where you want to grow, and then build your plan like you would for any project: goals, milestones, and accountability.

There’s no perfect path. But if you focus on clear communication, curiosity in chaos, and being your own best advocate, you’ll be unstoppable.

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?

The Book That’s Stuck with Me

There have been so many books over the years that have shaped how I lead, communicate, and grow — but the one I keep coming back to, and still recommend regularly, is How to Fascinate by Sally Hogshead.

Unlike most personality frameworks that tell you how you see the world, this one flips the script and reveals how the world sees you. That insight alone changed how I approached everything from leading teams to shaping my personal brand.

Through the Fascination Advantage assessment, I discovered my archetype: The Architect — a blend of Prestige and Mystique. That means I’m most effective when I bring structure, clarity, and strategic thinking to the table — but I also tend to lead through listening, observation, and thoughtful contributions rather than being the loudest voice in the room. That was a huge moment of clarity for me. It gave me language for the value I bring, and permission to lead in a way that’s authentic to who I am.

Some of the most valuable lessons from the book?

You don’t have to change who you are — you just have to become more of who you are.

When you communicate using your natural advantage, people are more likely to trust you, remember you, and follow your lead.

Different is better than better. Standing out doesn’t mean being louder — it means leaning into your unique edge.

It’s helped me not only articulate my own value more clearly but coach others to do the same. That kind of self-awareness isn’t just helpful — it’s transformative.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Headshot is Jason Evans from Headshots by JKE (www.headshotsbyjke.com)

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