Name: James LaJoie

Title: Chief Operating Officer

Organisation: PSP Compass Solutions

Hey, I'm James Lajoie, and I've been navigating the twists and turns of the marketing world for over 15 years. From logistics to supply chain, and riding the digital marketing wave, it's safe to say, I'm always up for a challenge and I've got the experience to back it up. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at PSP Compass Solutions, I'm the guy behind the scenes making things happen. From managing budgets to upholding quality standards, I've got it covered. But it's not just about numbers; it's about crafting tailored marketing strategies that pack a punch and drive businesses forward.

Beyond the boardroom, I've stirred up some excitement as a bartender, mixing up unforgettable experiences as a fun Hobby. In my previous roles, I've been in the driver's seat for business development and customer success and operations management. Marketing is my passion, and I'm here to share insights and stories that make it all come to life.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

Well, being a leader has its share of challenges, but I've found managing people to be a bit like herding cats - each one has their unique quirks and personalities! It's a fascinating puzzle, though. You need to figure out what motivates each team member and how to get everyone rowing in the same direction.

It's a bit like conducting an orchestra where everyone's playing a different instrument, but you want to create a harmonious symphony. And then there's the big-picture thinking. It's like shifting gears from driving a scooter to piloting a spaceship. You have to zoom out from the day-to-day tasks and think about how every decision ripples through the entire organization. It's not just about what's good for your department; it's about what's best for the company's grand mission.

To tackle these challenges, I've been on a continuous learning journey, kind of like being a student of the 'Human Psyche and Galaxy-Sized Strategies.' I've picked up some Jedi mind tricks along the way, like active listening and empathy, and I've made sure to keep my leadership lightsaber sharp. It's an adventure, and I'm enjoying every twist and turn!

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

Well, my journey into leadership had a real turning point during my tenure at FedEx. That's where I met some incredible mentors who recognized the spark in me and really ignited my passion for exploring my strengths.

With their guidance and encouragement, I truly exploded into exploring what I was good at. I embraced the complexities of logistics, dove deep into the intricacies of supply chain, and discovered my knack for digital marketing. It was like unwrapping a series of presents, each one revealing a new skill or talent.

And of course, my ever-present ambition played a role too. I couldn't resist the allure of setting ambitious goals and reaching for the stars. But it was the mentors at FedEx who fueled that ambition, showing me the way and helping me channel it into leadership.

So, my journey has been a bit like a FedEx package it started one way, but thanks to these incredible mentors, it ended up at a destination I couldn't have imagined. It's been a wild ride, and I'm loving every moment of it!

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

Ah, the daily dance of productivity, James-style! It all begins with my cherished morning ritual - breakfast and a cup of coffee. You could say I have a passionate affair with my coffee; it's the trusty sidekick that fuels my day.

After savoring those early bites, I dive headfirst into a whirlwind of industry news and podcasts. It's like my morning espresso for the brain I need to know what's shaking in the world before I dive into the day's adventures. By mid-morning, it's 'go time.' Meetings, meetings, and more meetings. I like to keep the important conversations right in the heart of the day when everyone's engaged and caffeinated. We brainstorm, strategize, and get down to business.

But here's the twist by the afternoon, I'm itching for a different kind of 'exercise.' Off to the bike trail or the gym, I go! It's my secret weapon to keep those creative juices flowing and ensure I don't turn into a coffee-fueled office chair. As the workday winds down, I wrap up any loose ends, ensuring I don't leave any mysteries for tomorrow. Then, it's time to relax, whether it's sharing dinner with friends or simply enjoying some 'me-time' at home.

So, that's the James Lajoie workday productive, powered by coffee, and seasoned with a dash of adventure. After all, life's too short for boring routines

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

One of the most recent leadership insights that has struck me profoundly is the significance of truly understanding individuals. It's not merely about grasping their job roles; it's about gaining a deep understanding of their unique attributes, interests, and ambitions.

I've relearned the fact that when you invest the time and effort to comprehend a person's distinct strengths, motivations, and aspirations, you can better guide and support them. It's akin to having a tailored roadmap to unlocking their potential. By customizing your leadership approach to align with each individual's characteristics, you can help them excel in their roles and contribute optimally to the team.

This principle transcends the workplace, extending to client interactions as well. To provide exceptional service and achieve outstanding results, it's crucial to immerse yourself in understanding the client's requirements, their product or service, and their target audience. Building a deep rapport, fostering trust, and aligning your strategies with their objectives are all integral components.

In essence, the recent leadership lesson that has resonated with me underscores the importance of a people-centered approach. Whether applied within the team or in client relations, the act of genuinely comprehending individuals is the key to fostering exceptional experiences and achieving remarkable outcomes.

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?

One book that has left a profound mark on my leadership journey is 'Relentless' by Tim Grover. This book isn't just about leadership; it's about cultivating an unyielding mindset and drive for excellence.

The story of how 'Relentless' impacted my leadership is like a transformational journey. Grover, who worked closely with legendary athletes like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, delves deep into the psychology of high achievers. He categorizes individuals into three distinct groups: Coolers, Closers, and Cleaners.

As I read through the pages, I realized that to become a truly effective leader, I needed to embrace the Cleaner mentality. Cleaners are the individuals who relentlessly pursue their goals, maintain a fierce work ethic, and refuse to settle for mediocrity. They possess an unwavering commitment to excellence.

This book served as a wake-up call, prompting me to examine my leadership style and my personal drive. It made me question whether I was truly pushing myself to the limits, both professionally and personally. It challenged me to adopt a Cleaner mindset in every aspect of my life, not just in my leadership role.

The impact of 'Relentless' wasn't just about leadership strategies; it was about fostering an unrelenting dedication to excellence in all that I do. It's a book that continues to inspire me to push boundaries, raise the bar, and lead with an unwavering commitment to achieving greatness.

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

If I could offer just one piece of advice to a young leader, it would be this: Learn patience, and then learn some more patience. Patience is like the secret sauce that flavors your journey as a leader. It's not always easy, especially when you're brimming with ambition and eager to see immediate results. But here's the thing, patience isn't about waiting idly; it's about understanding that great things take time.

So, stay ambitious never lose that fire within you. But also, have grace for the times you stumble and fall. It's a part of the journey. Embrace those moments as valuable learning experiences because they'll shape you into a resilient and compassionate leader. You see, once you've learned how to be patient and kind to yourself, you'll be better equipped to extend that same grace to others.

And here's a little bonus advice: Don't be afraid to be alone with an idea you want to try. Some of the greatest innovations and breakthroughs come from daring to venture into uncharted territory. So, don't hesitate to explore your ideas, even if they seem unconventional. As a leader, you have the power to pave new paths and inspire others to follow.

In a nutshell, my advice to young leaders is to cultivate patience, nurture your ambition, practice self-grace, and fearlessly pursue your ideas. It's a recipe for becoming a remarkable leader who not only achieves great things but also empowers others to do the same

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

One meaningful story that comes to mind from my time as a leader isn't just about professional growth; it's about how the lessons I've learned as a leader have had a profound impact on my personal life, relationships, and overall happiness.

You see, leadership isn't confined to boardrooms or office settings; it transcends into our everyday lives. The skill of effective communication, for instance, isn't solely about guiding a team; it's about building stronger connections with people we care about. Learning to listen actively, understand others' perspectives, and communicate with empathy has not only improved my leadership abilities but also deepened my personal relationships.

Moreover, the concept of 'leading with intention' has been transformative. In leadership, setting clear goals, making strategic decisions, and staying focused on the bigger picture are essential. I realized that the same principles can be applied to personal life. By setting intentional goals, making deliberate choices, and staying focused on my values, I've been able to navigate life's challenges more effectively.

In fact, this intentional approach spilled into my friendships, making them richer and more fulfilling. I started surrounding myself with people who shared similar values and aspirations, leading to more meaningful connections. My personal journey as a leader has taught me that success isn't just about achieving professional milestones; it's about living with intention, nurturing relationships, and finding happiness in the journey itself.

So, the story I cherish most isn't just about leadership at work; it's about how the principles I've learned have helped me solve problems, enrich relationships, and lead a more intentional, happier life