We were lucky to catch up with Jen Mac recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jen, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear your thoughts about making remote work effective.
I am fortunate to work for a 100% remote company that embraces a flexible work schedule and allows its employees the freedom and trust to work the way that best suits them, on their schedule. For me, this means being able to spend more time with my dog, being able to make my own lunch at a time that works best for my schedule, and having the opportunity to complete a work out or run an errand during the day without worry. I also don’t have to worry that this will switch to be a hybrid model at any moment – we intentionally have no offices.
The benefits to remote work in terms of convenience and flexibility are endless, and I find myself missing an office environment less and less. I make sure to bridge the gap between what some may see as isolating work and the need for human interaction through a mix of virtual video calls and intentional planning of in-person meetups. I also ensure that not every conversation is a meeting – scheduling time to catch up with virtual team members to allow for banter and casual conversation strengthens bonds with my colleagues.
When working remotely, remember to look up and look around. Whether it’s to take a few minutes to step away from the computer to enjoy some fresh air, or to take a moment to quietly reflect and recharge, this new style of work affords us the ability to prove that work life balance is possible and sustainable.
Jen, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My career in marketing and communications was built on the idea that connection is key. With experience spanning multiple industries at places like Meijer, Eddie Bauer, T-Mobile, and now Consiglieri – I’ve got a knack for steering teams toward amazing results.
As part of Consiglieri’s leadership team, my work extends beyond traditional marketing functions. I’m the driving force behind company initiatives, leading internal and external communications and collaborating with creative teams to deliver impactful content for internal and senior client projects. I passionately support our recruiting and talent acquisition process and community outreach efforts, making sure our diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are consistently executed.
No matter what I’m doing, my work is anchored in connection; bringing people together and fostering those important personal and professional relationships is central to everything I do. From navigating different worlds, to leading with empathy, I’m all about creating impactful change inside and outside the marketing industry.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
As the first-generation child of former refugees, my upbringing was steeped in lessons of resilience and tenacity. From my parents, I learned the art of resourcefulness, the importance of unwavering conviction, and the undeniable power of forging genuine connections and embodying a strong work ethic. Despite being commended by educators and employers alike for my drive and accomplishments, an undercurrent of unease and self-doubt persisted.
As a woman of color, I grappled with nagging questions: Would my voice be heard and valued? Could I attain the same heights of success as those with more conventional paths? Yet, upon reflection, I realized that much of this uncertainty stemmed from external pressures beyond my control. True fulfillment, I came to understand, isn’t merely about perpetual striving or accolades—it’s about defining success on my own terms and finding purpose in my endeavors.
I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, acknowledging the significance of my lived experiences and embracing the inherent value of my perspective. I learned to trust my voice, recognizing the power it holds and the unique insight it offers. I began to unapologetically occupy spaces, contributing meaningfully and asserting my worth. Through this transformation, I discovered a newfound confidence in my abilities, opening doors to opportunities I once deemed unattainable.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Leading with empathy isn’t just a leadership style—it’s a fundamental necessity. I prioritize active listening, carving out safe spaces for team members to voice their concerns and navigate personal and professional challenges. This foundation of trust and transparent communication not only promotes exceptional work but also nurtures a healthy team dynamic.
Recognizing the diverse skill sets and personalities within a team allows you to embrace each individual’s aspirations, strengths, and interests. Tailoring tasks and projects to align with their individual talents and passions ensures that motivation and engagement remain consistently high. This customized approach not only empowers team members to recognize their own value but also fosters meaningful connections and mutual support among colleagues.
It’s important to nurture a sense of camaraderie within a team, encouraging collaboration and a shared purpose. In the face of the most challenging moments, I take a human-first approach to navigating the waves alongside my team. I am always evaluating how I can act as a life raft—identifying opportunities to provide additional support, encouragement, and guidance. It’s equally as important to remember to celebrate victories often along the way; recognizing and acknowledging wins, no matter how big or small, reinforces a positive work environment and inspires continued success.
