We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Corri Roberts a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Corri, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Innovation comes in all shapes, sizes and across all industries, so we’d love to hear about something you’ve done that you feel was particularly innovative.
The most innovative project I have ever done was the development of the programming behind the Rudd Scholarship Program. I wanted to create a program that would set our program apart from other scholarship providers. Because of the creative freedom and the financial backing our Founder, Leslie Rudd left the Rudd Foundation, I was able to create a program that was built on relationships and programing to enrich professional and personal development.
Corri, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a creative and resourceful individual with a strong drive to get things done. As a leader, I believe in gently pushing others by demonstrating my unwavering belief in their abilities and potential. I approach my work with my entire heart, striving to connect with others and motivate them towards success. I embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth and recognize when to seek out additional support to achieve our goals. I work hard and love big! My biggest success is the growth I see in the students and staff I work with daily. My work brings me so much joy.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
In fostering a team with high morale and performance, my approach revolves around creating a culture of feedback and empowerment. I firmly believe in providing both positive reinforcement and constructive criticism to guide the team towards excellence. By clearly communicating expectations and granting creative freedom, team members feel a sense of ownership and accomplishment as they work towards achieving goals.
I actively engage with my team members to understand their passions and strengths, allowing them opportunities to lead in areas where they excel. Rather than dictating solutions, I prefer to guide them through questioning and empowering them to generate their ideas and solutions. This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership but also encourages innovation and creativity within the team.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
At the age of 40, I found myself at a crossroads where the demands of my career were conflicting with my desire to be fully present for my growing family, particularly with the arrival of my third child. Recognizing the need to prioritize my family’s well-being, I made the difficult decision to pivot my career path, acknowledging that the demanding hours and commitments were no longer sustainable.
Transitioning from being the primary breadwinner, I embarked on a new journey, opting for a career that offered greater flexibility and balance. Little did I anticipate the profound impact this decision would have on my professional trajectory and personal fulfillment over the subsequent years.
Today, I find myself in the most rewarding phase of my career, one that not only aligns with my family priorities but also provides a substantial livelihood for my loved ones. While the decision to start anew was undoubtedly daunting, it ultimately proved to be the best choice for both me and my family.
I firmly believe that a strong work ethic and unwavering drive are fundamental to achieving one’s career aspirations. Though change can be challenging, maintaining a positive mindset and embracing new opportunities have the potential to yield remarkable outcomes in the long run. My journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace change for the betterment of oneself and those we hold dear.
Contact Info:
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