We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dawn Johnson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dawn below.

Dawn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you recount a time when the advice you provided to a client was really spot on? (Please note this response is for education/entertainment purposes only and shouldn’t be construed as advice for the reader)

I remember being asked, “so Dawn, what do you think?”, I paused. It was that moment that every clinician, advisor and consultant waits for. However, it was a moment that could make or break the small business that I formed less than a year prior. If I tell them what I really think, how will they react? The topic of equity and diversity brings all your bias, vulnerability and emotion to the forefront. As I remembered that my firm was a place of authenticity, truth telling and advising, I gave them my answer. They shook their heads, nodded and acknowledged the words that no one else had the courage to say. Later, my primary contact called to thank me. They said, no one had ever spoke like that to us before and it was just what we needed to move forward and pivot. I was asked if I had the capacity to move forward with them, to support, push and advise them. It was at this moment that I said, you will always get the truth from me, however hard it may be to digest, it will always be constructive and actionable. My firm and client interactions are authentic. My clients need actionable advisory services, not something from a template or that has been washed and repeated. They are moving forward in their truth toward their goal.

Dawn, 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 take immense pride in the journey I embarked upon, transitioning from a corporate job that often failed to recognize my true worth to the rewarding path of starting from scratch and building my own brand. When I tell this story, I literally stepped off the train and determined my own path – all in the height of COVID-19. Over the course of my 25+ year career, I cultivated invaluable relationships that have served as the cornerstone of my success. These connections allowed me to mentor and empower young professionals, sharing my knowledge and experiences to guide them on their own journeys. Despite encountering places and individuals who attempted to undermine my value, I persevered and earned the respect and recognition I deserve, both for my work and my rich background and expertise. Today, I stand as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the strength that comes from embracing one’s true worth. As a black woman in consulting, I hope to inspire, support, and show individuals that the dream is achievable. I love that both my clients and work align.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Throughout my career, whether it was during my tenure at the Veterans Administration as a Case Manager, or as a Division Director for the Centers for Medicare Medicaid Services, I have protected my brand (my reputation). I build my relationships on trust. Trust between colleagues, clients, contractors, patients, families, health plans, and referral partners. My firm, DHJ Services, successfully leverages that reputation in the market through a combination of factors that emphasize professionalism, reliability, and customer-centricity. We aim to consistently deliver high-quality services that exceed client expectations, fostering trust and loyalty. Secondly, DHJ Services prioritizes clear and transparent communication with clients, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. Furthermore, we invest in continuous improvement, staying abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to better support and propel our clients. This results in positive word-of-mouth referrals and reviews from satisfied customers as brand advocates. We are committed to ethical business practices, teamwork and team building.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

The most pivotal factor in success has undoubtedly been our unwavering dedication to client satisfaction and its commitment to truth and transparency. Success is developing a trusting relationship and not trying to make the work about the money. DHJ Services consistently goes above and beyond to understand and fulfill the unique needs of its clients, ensuring that each engagement is tailored to deliver value and push the client to think and exist beyond their bias and barriers. This client-centric approach has fostered long-lasting relationships and a strong reputation for reliability, which, in turn, has led to repeat business and referrals. Moreover, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability that allows us to stay ahead in this evolving market.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dhjservices.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnhjohnson/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/dhj-services-llc/

Image Credits
Dawn Johnson