Name: Cheryl Viola

Title: Executive Director & CEO

Organisation: Chamber of Commerce

Cheryl has 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Leading two Chambers of Commerce in different states. Cheryl developed a love for leadership training and helping others recognize and enhance their skills.

Working in nonprofit provided the avenue to give back to communities working with local leaders and business leaders. Cheryl is a life long learner, she earned he Master's degree while working full time and being a single parent to three amazing children. Cheryl continues her pursuit of knowledge and education and is currently working on a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Cheryl's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

The greatest challenge of being a leader is giving time to each person. Employee or volunteer a leader needs to ensure that each individual feels valued and heard.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Becoming a leader was a lifetime process. It started as teenager when I was asked to serve as president for my young women's group at my church. Career wise, I was working for a College, Institue of Technology and as I worked my way up the corporate ladder, I managed three teams of people. Eventually working in nonprofit where I led volunteers, supporting businesses, providing professional development training and community service.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My day starts early in the morning, with some meditation and reading scriptures. Then I spend 90 minutes at the gym. I love the endorphin release of exercise; it clears my mind and often opens the door to creativity and innovation. When I get to the office, I spent the first hour on email and then move on to projects. I have also learned as a leader you need to be protective of personal and family time. Everyone needs to make the time to relax and recharge.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Leaders are found in all levels of the organization. It is not dependent upon title or position. A leader inspires others. They are compassionate and demonstrate empathy. I learned early on that a title or position does not make you a leader. Striving to always become the best version of yourself while inspiring others is what leadership is about.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

As a life long learner I am constantly reading books on leadership and self-improvement. The book that has had a huge impact on me is "Spark How to Lead yourself and others to greater success" by Angie Morgan, Courtney Lynch and Sean Lynch.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Learn to be an active listener. People need to feel valued and heard. Leadership is about listening and then doing. Leadership is a verb, an action word so be sure that you follow through with all commitments and promises, going above and beyond.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

Leaders make mistakes just like anyone else. The difference is that they see failure as an opportunity for growth. As a newly promoted leader a mentor had a one on one with me and with kindness pointed out a leadership weakness of mine. It was difficult to hear criticism.

I had the choice to take offense and do nothing, or to take action, follow council and improve the weakness. I chose to take action and have been able to turn that weakness into a strength. As human's we are very aware of our own struggles and weaknesses. It is not fun for anyone to have another point out our weakness. Leaders will give and receive criticism find ways to grow both as an individual and as a leader.