After 30+ years in the staffing industry, Jennifer Waldrip, VP of Client & Talent Services reflects on 30 lessons she has learned. Each one has a unique story and memory associated with it. From her airport strategy to her approach to leadership, Jennifer’s insights are a great reminder to appreciate the challenges and celebrate the successes along the way.
30 Lessons Learned
- Grit is more important than talent. Grow your grit if you don’t have much – it will take you further than talent alone.
- I don’t believe in luck – the more persistent we are the “luckier” we get.
- First in and last out paid off.
- Million-dollar producers want to practice and be coached.
- If you are humble, vulnerable, and authentic, you don’t have to proclaim it.
- You can make a flight out of JFK, arriving at the airport 9 minutes before takeoff with intense determination, and a lot of prayer.
- It feels good to finish what you started.
- I have a disability.
- It’s ok to work through labor – it’s an incredible distraction!
- Ask for feedback and be willing to take it.
- Being vulnerable deepens your connection with your team.
- Do the right thing always and stand up for what’s right.
- Focus wins.
- Know your why.
- Like John Wooden said, “Success is never final and failure is not fatal.” – I’ve had plenty of both. Both are important for growth.
- Find joy. If you don’t feel it, find it. I promise it’s there.
- Leading with love is most rewarding. Love works.
- When I figured out that I work for my team and not the other way around, leadership developed. Genuinely serving others brings joy.
- You don’t get what you don’t ask for.
- Kaizen is my way of life & gratitude brings happiness throughout the journey.
- Find a way. There is always a way.
- If you’ve never yelled out loud “I love my job!”, you’re missing out. Enthusiasm breeds enthusiasm!
- Never hide behind an email – be willing to have tough conversations live.
- Good habits make life easier – Plan your day and then work your plan.
- It’s ok to not know something, but it’s not ok to not do anything about it.
- Courage will open a whole new world, so do the hard things – they will make you better.
- With change comes opportunity.
- Slow down to go fast.
- Relationships are built on experiences and not all experiences are easy. But they are worth it.
- People need to be heard – actively listen to them. More listening, less directing.
ABOUT OUR VP
As VP of Client and Talent Services, Jennifer champions results and growth by leading the sales and delivery teams. Her leadership style prioritizes hiring, training, and developing talent. As part of the Executive Team, she helps develop, oversee, and execute strategy for key growth initiatives.
Her extensive experience in the staffing business allows her to serve as a liaison between the corporate world and the talent field. Leading multiple markets and lines of business propelled her consulting career, eventually leading her to partner with ProFocus. Before she joined the team as VP, Jennifer worked closely with us in a consulting role with a laser focus on quality. Her passion for helping others succeed makes her a great addition to the culture at ProFocus.
You can find Jennifer with her family when she’s not at the office. Her husband and three children ensure that every day is filled with love and a new adventure. A true Oregonian, Jennifer soaks up any sunshine she can and loves to end her day with a run, walk, or bike ride.
Jennifer and her family are passionate about giving back and serving their communities. She serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Astoria High School Scholarship Inc and also volunteers at her church teaching youth, and leading self-reliance courses.
If you’re interested in learning more about Jennifer or her industry insights connect with her on LinkedIn. She is happy to connect!
Meet the rest of our team here.
