business dynamics
Mondale Smith
offers tips on leadership, staying healthy and leveraging technology
recommended reading: Brand Me by Melissa Dawn Johnson Obama: From Promise to Power by David Mendell Take the Risk by Dr. Ben Carson
Every successful organization has to have a goal-oriented team with a unified vision. For American Family Insurance, it is imperative to find individuals that can make sure everyone is operating in perfect synergy and connectivity—and Mondale Smith is one such individual. An attentive listener and focused professional, Smith understands that when everyone is in-sync, the brand can achieve success.
relevance of insurance: “Insurance minimizes the cost of worry.”
five skill sets needed to adapt to change in corporate America: “I am an analogous thinker. One, you have to have keen listening skills. You have to be able to hear what is going on around you. Two, determination. There will be obstacles, [and] there will be setbacks, but you have to be able to move forward. Three, you have to have willingness [and ability] to learn. Four, cockiness. I say that not in a negative way, but you have to have a certain level of confidence to move forward. Five, humility. You have to be humble enough to know when you don’t know something and to let others take the lead.”
leadership philosophy: “I don’t have a monopoly on great ideas. I am able to rely on and see the value of other people. Involve everybody, give people the opportunity to voice their opinions. Capture all of the ideas that are presented and see which ones are the most viable or feasible approach to utilize.”
impact of physical fitness: “Physically, you need to stay in shape. If your body is not in tune and you are ailing physically, your mind won’t be able to process things, think as fast on your feet, [or] have the mental fortitude. A healthy balance– physically and mentally is essential.”
technology and innovation: “Utilizing technology enables me to be in constant communication with my team members in other states. Technology is huge. I have a BlackBerry; it allows me to peruse emails, keeps me current on meetings and can listen to my voice mail. I [also] like the iPod—Apple has done a phenomenal job.”
role model: “I model my career after Jamie Foxx. He is a comedian, actor and singer. You can’t typecast him in a specific career. If I can be proficient in public speaking, help people in safety, [and] can understand insurance, [then] I can move back and forth. Don’t be afraid to take assignments outside of your comfort zone.”
native: Chicago education: Bachelors in Communication – Loyola University Chicago and Bachelors in Spanish – Elmhurst College occupation: farm ranch loss control manager, American Family Insurance job objective: “At the end of the day, my job is to help people sustain their normal operations and not incur losses.”
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