INterview with Nikki Christiansen

What does it mean to be a great leader?

A  leader is someone who really develops and has a vision for the group or organization they are working with. That vision should enhance the strength of the group and be compelling enough to inspire people to come on board.

Secondly, they need to motivate and inspire people towards the success of that vision. Be inspiring and motivating in ways that work with that group. 

All of this requires knowing the ins and outs of the people that you’re leading, understanding the organization and the people. That will help the leader to be motivating to that group and be able to achieve the vision. 

Do you feel you're a leader? Why or why not?

I do feel I’m a leader. I think the reason I’m a leader is because I’m a good listener. I have a psychology degree, which taught me to listen and I also worked in a group home with teens for several years. I think those experiences helped me to hone my listening skills and understand that listening is such a huge component of leading the people you’re working with. 

In leading my own business I have confirmed my belief that listening is the key. I’m also proactive in solving issues and looking ahead to future issues. 

Tell a story of a time you took the lead -- what was your motivation?

The story that resonates most with me is last year when I was nominated as VP of our leads group at the Denver Chamber. This year I became President. This is the first time I’ve been in a leadership position such as this and I feel it's a great honor to have this opportunity. 

I had really grown to know the members, made friends, and found this was an opportunity to take my leadership skills to the next level. I take the lead regularly as a business owner, but this opportunity allows me to lead within a large organization and take my leadership skills to the next level. 

I'm so excited to help the group reach the next step in its vision. 

Follow Nikki Christiansen on LinkedIn

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