"The Power of Authenticity: My Journey to Success" featuring CHRO, Jeannie Virden.

I am excited to introduce a project close to my heart - the IRON HRO newsletter. As fellow professionals in the field of Human Resources, I believe that our collective insights, stories, and lessons learned have the power to elevate each other's journeys.

My goal is to create a resource that empowers HR professionals by showcasing the real-world experiences of those who have paved the way through a transformative insight, a story of overcoming challenge, or a lesson learned through years of dedicated service.

I am thrilled to introduce Jeannie Virden , Chief Human Resources Officer at Central Health. She graciously imparts a pivotal lesson that has contributed to her success in this inaugural edition of the IRON HRO newsletter.

Amanda: Reflecting on your journey to success, can you pinpoint one key habit that has consistently propelled you forward, and how has it played a pivotal role in shaping your accomplishments?

Jeannie: My path to becoming a Chief Human Resources Officer has been an incredible adventure filled with challenges, growth, and moments of self-discovery. Looking back, I can confidently say that one key habit has consistently propelled my career forward and played a pivotal role in shaping my accomplishments: being true to myself.

In a world where conformity often seems like the easiest route to success, embracing authenticity can sometimes feel like a risky choice. However, my career has taught me that one can lead authentically, even without traditional leadership training or development. It's about knowing who you are, understanding your values, and having the courage to stay true to them. It's about being adaptable and open to change while maintaining a strong sense of self.

As I progressed throughout my career, I was not offered a chance, nor did I see out the opportunity to participate in traditional leadership training or development programs. Instead, I learned how to lead by observing and reflecting on my own experiences and by carefully considering what I liked and didn't like about my leaders along the way. This self-guided approach allowed me to develop a leadership style that was uniquely mine, one rooted in authenticity and a deep commitment to my values.

One of the most significant benefits of authenticity is its power to build strong and lasting relationships. By being open, honest, and genuine in my interactions with others, I fostered connections built on trust and mutual respect. These relationships have been instrumental in my career growth, opening doors and providing invaluable support during challenging times.

My collaboration skills, a cornerstone of effective leadership, has also been greatly enhanced by authenticity. Instead of imposing my ideas or solutions on others, I've learned to ask a simple yet powerful question: "What are you trying to accomplish, and how best can we get there together?" This approach has not only improved team dynamics but has also led to more creative and effective solutions.

Every career faces its share of challenges and setbacks. For me, authenticity has been a guiding light during these difficult moments. It has helped me stay resilient, maintain my composure, and find innovative solutions to complex problems. By being true to myself and fostering an environment of collaboration, I've been able to face adversity with grace and determination.

As I climbed the corporate ladder, I also became a champion for authenticity within my organizations. I firmly believe that fostering a culture where employees can be their authentic selves and collaborate effectively leads to greater creativity, innovation, and employee satisfaction. By championing this cause, I've not only shaped my own success but also contributed to the growth and success of the teams and companies I've been a part of.

In conclusion, the journey to success is a winding road filled with highs and lows. Throughout my career, I've learned that authenticity and collaboration are not just personal choices; they are strategic advantages. Being true to myself and embracing collaboration has not only propelled my career forward but has also shaped the kind of leader I aspire to be—one who values integrity, empathy, and the power of genuine connections.

As we all continue on our own unique paths, I encourage each of you to reflect on your own authenticity and the opportunities for collaboration that surround you. Embrace them, nurture them, and let them guide you towards success in both your professional and personal endeavors.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey with me; without you, I would not be where I am today. ###

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Interested in being featured? If you're passionate about fostering growth within the HR community and helping professionals reach their full potential, I invite you to share your expertise through IRON HRO. Your involvement would not only enrich the lives of those who read the newsletter but also contribute to the collective growth of our industry. Message me to coordinate.