CHAMPION OF SUCCESS

With 25 years of experience in hospitality, destination marketing, and consumer brands, NANCY O’BRIEN-WIDELKA is an award-winning sales strategist and entrepreneur. As the Vice President of Business Development for Gemini Builds It!, the Chicago native leverages that hospitality sales expertise in collaboration with Gemini’s custom design and creative services to bring clients’ brands to life through innovative décor. O’Brien-Widelka also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of The Magnetic Truth, a personal performance advisory dedicated to coaching clients to successfully navigate corporate and social landscapes.

What does the idea of power mean to you? Power is the ability to shape perceptions through influence and persuade others to willingly adopt values, beliefs, and behaviors. I believe everyone possesses power and it is incumbent upon each of us to utilize our power and connections for the betterment of others.

How should women support other women? By fostering an environment of trust and empathy and creating safe spaces for women to openly share their experiences, challenges, and achievements without fear of judgment. Celebrating and acknowledging each other’s successes, both big and small, is paramount to our journeys.

What are you most proud of doing? My professional career and personal affiliations have allowed me to meet, and work alongside, amazing men and women who have influenced and mentored me. I am proud to stand on the shoulders of those who have blazed the trail before me, having learned from their experience and wisdom, allowing me to build meaningful client relationships.

What is the most important characteristic of an effective leader? Emotional intelligence is key to being an effective leader. It encompasses the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Leaders who possess this characteristic are adept at navigating complex interpersonal dynamics, building strong rapport, communicating effectively, and making empathetic and well-informed decisions.

For more information, visit geminibuildsit.com or themagnetictruth.com.