Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Sokolosky.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Valerie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Inarguably, passion is a driver for success, and having a passion for the success of others has been key in the rise of my executive coaching business.
With an early career in broadcasting (since age 16!). I had an insatiable curiosity about people—what brought them success, what were their unique gifts and strengths, what stories fueled their careers? That’s what I loved about interviewing—and I was passionate about uncovering their best!
My curiosity led me to find in people what is called today their “brand.”
My broadcasting and journalism career had halted while my IBM executive husband and I moved around the country with our three children. During those years, I was given the opportunity to open and operate a charm school! What fun to teach others HOW to be their best—by learning how to communicate effectively, how to present a professional image, how to have social graces, and how to exude a leadership presence.
Little did I imagine that experience would give me the expertise to found, grow and sustain Valerie & Company for more than 25 years now!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building a business takes TRUE GRIT! It’s not for the faint of heart. Yet, when someone asked me once, “Valerie – did you ever think you’d fail?” – my comment was an unequivocal NO. It never entered my mind because I knew I was developing something wrapped with my passion.”
My greatest challenge has been and will always be staying ahead of the curve, continually learning more of my craft, exploring a client company and making sure I will deliver above expectations. When a client is successful – I’m successful.
Please tell us about Valerie and Company.
With eight books authored on leadership and presence, our company is known for speaking, training and coaching on all aspects of professional presence and business development.
Our sweet spot is working with companies who seek to develop their talent and grow their business.
The call is often the same. “We need a program on how to show up exuding an executive presence. We want to smooth out some rough edges and be more polished in how we communicate!” Or, “We need our team to function more collaboratively and communicate more openly.” Or, “We need the skills to give more impactful presentations.”
We believe in customizing so that our engagement meets our clients’ outcomes for a program, keynote, or executive coaching engagement. Our Blue-Chip client list is testimony to our results. Whatever the need, our philosophy is to uncover the “little things” that can make a “big” difference. We fill the gap between successful and mediocre—with Presence!
Most recently, I’m grateful and proud to be a FOX NEWS CONTRIBUTOR along with being a guest monthly on The Blaze – with Doc Thompson.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is when you lie down at night knowing in your heart you have done the best you can and been fairly compensated for your expertise. And then as a leader, show your gratitude of accomplishments by giving to others. In other words, stay humble and spend time each day thinking about what you are grateful for rather than what didn’t go your way. It takes a village to grow a business. Villages are made of those people who have and do give you support. Reward them – let them know you appreciate what they do for your business. And finally – have fun. Life is fleeting, memories are remembered.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1412 Main Street, Suite 1110
Dallas, TX 75202 - Website: www.valerieandcompany.com
- Phone: Work: 214-290-0100 Mobile: 214-502-3334
- Email: valerie@valerieandcompany.com
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