Success is dependent upon building a competitive team with complementary skills, dreams, and enthusiasm. A leader’s foremost job is to match the right candidate with the right job, provide all the support possible, then stand back and let them flourish. I am honest with my team every step of the way, and give them the balance of freedom and enough direction to thrive. I follow the lead by-example philosophy. I am always prepared to reinvent myself, as the world around us is continually changing. I know I must stay open to new, fresh ideas in order to continue to grow and excel.

In our day-to-day roles, situations arise where you may feel somewhat overwhelmed with the task at hand. Always remember to gain input from the people who have influence over the success of the task. Listen very intently and be decisive in order to overcome the challenge at hand. One of the most important things to remember is that respect is earned, never given; and respect is earned through listening to others.

Professional success is never achieved alone. One of the most important elements for success that you must continue to develop is your ability to relate to people. Building professional relationships, mentoring others, and maintaining high ethical standards are the cornerstones to any good leader’s success.

Thirty-one years ago, when I was an entry level employee of the United States Postal Service, I would never have dreamt that one day I would be in a position to make a difference in the lives of nearly 93,000 employees who work within my area of responsibility. My personal motto is treat people well and they will always take care of you. Success, though, never comes easy or without sacrifices, whether it is maintaining my home and cross-country relationships in Florida, or working to grow my professional career in Chicago and throughout the Great lakes area.

Remember, it is important to continue to grow as a professional, step outside your comfort zone, strive to be the best, and balance your personal and professional life. Titles are not what define you; what you do with the title defines who you really are. Be the best!