Hanna Lee, the COO of CJ Chemicals, LLC, shares her journey of becoming a successful leader within her family’s company. Starting at the age of 22, fresh out of college, she was promoted to a leadership position within a few years. Despite feeling young and insecure at first, she learned that earning her team’s respect and being a leader rather than a boss was the key to success.
Lee’s leadership journey began with a grassroots approach, where she focused on how she would want to be managed. She emphasized collaboration, motivation, and inspiration to help her team perform at their best and enjoy their work. Research shows that happier employees are more productive, which benefits both the individuals and the company’s bottom line.
To be a better leader, Lee offers some tips based on her own experiences. Firstly, she advises not being afraid to hire individuals who are better than you, as their skills can benefit the team and the company as a whole. She also encourages coaching employees instead of critiquing them, understanding their communication styles, and being their advocate when resources are needed.
Additionally, Lee emphasizes the importance of getting hands-on with the work, being approachable to foster open communication, and setting clear expectations for your team. By following these principles, leaders can avoid common pitfalls such as imposter syndrome and focus on growing into their role with authenticity and confidence.
Lee believes that anyone can become a great leader with the right mindset and strategies in place. By focusing on collaboration, empathy, and skill development, individuals can transition from being a boss who merely gives orders to a leader who inspires and empowers their team. Implementing these tips can help individuals improve their leadership skills and create a positive work environment for themselves and their employees.
