We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sakara Ross. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sakara below.
Hi Sakara, 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?
I’ve come to see being the only one in the room who looks like me as an opportunity rather than a challenge. It piques curiosity among others, sparking interest in the unique perspective and abilities I bring to the table. In such situations, I’ve honed my ability to engage effectively, actively seeking to establish connections and foster relationships. Ensuring that everyone knows my name and background, along with information about my company, helps break the ice and fosters a sense of familiarity. Additionally, I make a point of asking questions, not only to contribute to the conversation but also to gain insights and knowledge from others in the room. Overall, I’ve found that embracing my individuality in these settings has been a catalyst for building rapport and making meaningful connections.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I own and operate a construction company based in Houston, Texas. My company is family owned which makes it extremely special to me. I’m excited and proud to be creating a legacy for generations to come. We’ve been operating in Texas for seven years and we are looking to expand to Atlanta, Georgia in the near future.
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?
Looking back on my journey, I’ve found that belief, strong social skills, and resilience have been the most impactful qualities. Belief in my vision has been crucial as it serves as a sturdy foundation, shielding me from doubts and setbacks. Developing strong social skills has been invaluable, allowing me to build lasting relationships and seize collaborative opportunities. And perhaps most importantly, resilience has been essential. It’s helped me bounce back from setbacks, adapt to challenges, and emerge stronger. For those just starting out, my advice is to cultivate belief in yourself, prioritize building relationships, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Through perseverance and a positive mindset, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the journey ahead.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.snr-construction.com
- Instagram: sakaraross1of1
- Facebook: Sakara Ross
- Linkedin: Sakara Ross
- Twitter: sakaraross1of1
