Want to Reach Peak Performance in your Career? Be Adaptable.

By Laurie Gethin, Director, Education, Food Marketing Institute

I’ve been at FMI for more than two decades – I’ve had several different supervisors, been led by three CEOs and seen four U.S. presidents come and go. I’ve witnessed in our industry states of inflation, deflation, anticipation, consternation, celebration, preservation, reflection, inspiration, perspiration, evolution and even revolution.

Yes, it’s been a wild ride, but through it all, I’ve adapted and made the most of my career and built countless friendships along the way. The best news is that I’m still learning and making memorable connections, while striving to create value through my work on events and education for our members. I come to work each day passionate about the industry and excited to work on resources that will ultimately make our members more successful in their jobs.

As a leader and as a manager, I would note that the feedback I’ve been given has helped me grow and accelerate into new areas of opportunity throughout my 20-plus-year career at this organization.  

I’ve learned to be a thoughtful listener, but I’m certainly not shy to ask a question or share my constructive thoughts and opinions with executive leadership. My best piece of advice for future leaders in our industry would be to bring passion and a thirst for learning to whatever job you’re in.  And don’t be afraid to take on something new – it can lead to opportunities you haven’t even thought of yet.

Here’s a testimonial from my boss, Leslie Sarasin, commenting on the best piece of advice that she’s received and how it helped her achieve her professional goals. Watch it here.