We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Vince Abramo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Vince below.
Alright, Vince thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you share a story that illustrates an important or relevant lesson you learned in school
I discovered a profound lesson during my time as a project manager. It was a lesson that transcended the boardrooms and echoed through the corridors of personal growth.
Managing a team of 300 people, my professional journey seemed smooth on the surface. We achieved milestones, earned accolades, and maintained a harmonious rapport with clients. However, the true test of leadership unfolded in the uncharted territory of internal communication.
The revelation struck during a 360-degree assessment that exposed the gaps in my communication approach. I did well in client interactions, collaborated seamlessly with the board, and fostered camaraderie with my coworkers. Yet, a significant lapse emerged – a failure to convey the strategy to my fellow directors.
The realization hit hard, sparking a journey of self-discovery and improvement. Determined to bridge this communication divide, I embarked on a transformative path. The Center for Creative Leadership offered insights into effective communication and leadership dynamics.
This revelation propelled me further, leading me to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration with a focus on conflict resolution. Immersed in the intricacies of organizational dynamics, I learned techniques that transcended the confines of conflict, reaching into the realm of harmonious internal communication.
One conversation with a professor echoed in my mind: “That’s my job.” His words ignited a passion within me to share these invaluable lessons. I ventured into the realm of coaching and training, establishing my own business dedicated to effective communication.
Six years have passed since I began my business, and the journey has been one of continuous growth. Each client interaction reinforces the significance of communication skills in the professional landscape. Success, for me, is not just about achieving organizational goals but witnessing the transformative power of effective communication within teams.
Looking back, I see missed opportunities that could have been navigated with improved communication. Yet, these moments serve as catalysts for ongoing improvement. My approach to leadership and communication has evolved, shaped by the understanding that fostering a culture of effective communication is not just a skill; it’s a commitment to growth and success.
I envision a professional landscape where the art of communication and conflict resolution evolves hand in hand with technological advancements. My advice to individuals and organizations is simple: embrace the evolving nature of communication, invest in continuous learning, and cultivate an environment where every voice is not just heard but truly understood.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
bambooshoot Company is a unique and impactful organization that focuses on creating positive and productive work environments through communication, conflict resolution, and brain health learning. The company’s journey into this industry stems from a commitment to fostering healthier workplaces and addressing the challenges that organizations and individuals face in their professional lives.
Products/Services:
Motivational and Informational Speaking: bambooshoot Company offers speaking engagements on key topics such as communication, leadership, and conflict resolution. These sessions are designed to inspire and educate audiences on the importance of effective communication and leadership skills.
Training Programs: The company provides comprehensive training programs spanning four weeks, covering essential aspects of authentic communication, conflict resolution, leadership, and sales. Additionally, there is a specialized six-week training program focused on improving brain health, recognizing the inter-connectedness of mental well-being with overall workplace effectiveness.
Coaching Services: bambooshoot Company offers both individual and group coaching services. These sessions focus on leadership development, communication skills enhancement, and conflict resolution. Moreover, the company provides one-on-one coaching tailored for individuals dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Loss, recognizing the importance of addressing mental health challenges in the workplace.
Key Differentiators:
Inclusive Approach: What sets bambooshoot apart is its commitment to inclusivity. The emphasis on giving everyone a voice within the organization fosters an environment of openness and collaboration. This approach is a departure from traditional top-down communication structures, ensuring that each team member feels valued and heard.
Holistic Training: The integration of brain health training alongside communication and leadership programs demonstrates Bambooshoot’s commitment to a holistic approach to workplace development. Recognizing the connection between well-being and professional success, the company addresses the root causes of challenges faced by individuals and organizations.
Achievements to be Proud of:
Transformational Leadership: The company takes pride in transforming the leadership style of a company owner, showcasing its ability to bring about positive change and the staff feels they are able to share challenges.
Career Advancement: Another notable achievement is the case of a client in the software industry who, through improved communication skills, not only enhanced her professional relationships but also earned a well-deserved promotion.
Cultivating Openness: bambooshoot’s impact is evident in organizations that have embraced a more open and transparent communication style. By encouraging the sharing of challenges and fostering a culture of mutual support, the company has contributed to the creation of healthier workplace dynamics.
In summary, bambooshoot Company stands out as a catalyst for positive change in the workplace, offering a range of services that empower individuals and organizations to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and prioritize brain health. The success stories reflect the tangible impact of bambooshoot’s approach, making it a valuable partner for those seeking transformative solutions in their professional lives.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
In the initial years of owning bambooshoot, the struggle to gain clients was real. Despite putting in my best efforts, the traction just wasn’t there. It was a pivotal moment when I decided to pivot, incorporating consulting for nonprofits into the business. While I found fulfillment in creating processes for organizations, my true passion lay in speaking, training, and coaching.
Realizing this, I took a bold step and sought the expertise of a sales coach. Their guidance was a game-changer, encouraging me to reach out to potential clients every week. This disciplined approach not only expanded my client base but also fueled my confidence in what I had to offer.
But self-discovery didn’t stop there. I came to understand that my own beliefs were holding me back. Recognizing this internal barrier was a turning point. I worked on overcoming those limiting beliefs, paving the way for personal and professional growth.
Fast forward six years, and I find myself at a crossroads again, ready to take another bold step. I’ve decided to increase my prices, a tangible sign of the value bambooshoot brings to the table. The confidence I feel in making this move is a testament to the journey I’ve undertaken, marked by resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
As I look ahead, I’m excited about the prospect of a steady flow of monthly clients. The entrepreneurial path is never easy, but the challenges have only served to strengthen my resolve. With Bambooshoot, I’m not just building a business; I’m crafting a narrative of perseverance and success. Here’s to the next chapter!
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Learning to unlearn certain habits is a significant part of personal and professional growth. Here’s the backstory to the lesson I had to unlearn:
For the longest time, every month without clients induced a sense of panic in me. The fear of financial uncertainty led me to accept any consulting job or coaching client that came my way. In hindsight, this lack of discernment was detrimental. I failed to vet each client properly, and in the process, I found myself spread thin, working on projects that didn’t align with my true passions and goals.
The pressure to network in every organization added another layer of complexity. I believed that casting a wide net was the key to success. Consequently, I committed myself to numerous classes each week in an attempt to fill every training opportunity. The result? A chaotic schedule and a constant feeling of being pulled in multiple directions.
It took a moment of reflection to realize that I couldn’t do everything at once. The turning point was understanding the importance of scrutinizing each decision, especially when it came to taking on clients and engaging in networking activities. I was diluting my focus by trying to be everything to everyone.
The lesson I needed to unlearn was clear: I needed to take the time to understand the “why” behind each decision. Rushing into every opportunity without a strategic approach was hindering my progress. The realization prompted a shift in my mindset. Instead of being reactive, I started staying the course, honing in on my message, and refining my marketing strategy.
Now, I’m more intentional about the projects I take on and the clients I work with. I’ve learned that quality is more important than quantity. By focusing on what truly matters to me and aligning my efforts with my long-term goals, I’ve found a sense of clarity and purpose. The journey from panic-driven decisions to strategic choices has been transformative, and I’m excited about the path ahead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bambooshoot.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bambooshoothi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bambooshoot.co
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnvinceabramo/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/bambooshoothi
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/Wt0Sp3o1AN4
Image Credits
Keith Uehara