Get to know: Michelle Matus

1. What is your proudest achievement?

1.1. It's not my proudest achievement, but it's something I look back on fondly. I trained for and completed an 70.3 Ironman Triathlon. I loved the experience and what it taught me about showing up, putting in the work, and slogging through when things get tough. It's a lot like life. Not every day is 'race' day with a fun celebration and a medal at the end. Consistency, effort, and attitude help you get through the hard stuff, and if you're lucky, you get to enjoy the rush on race day!

2. Who is your role model?

2.1. I have two — and both happen to have great podcasts that I listen to on a regular basis. They both approach work, life, and self-improvement in a way that is inspiring, thought-provoking, and applicable to my daily life.

2.1.1. **Brené Brown** for her approach to leadership, vulnerability, and empathy. I appreciate that she practices what she preaches and makes space for women to be authentic leaders. She shows that you don't have to change who you are or hide your vulnerability to be a good leader.

2.1.2. **Cal Newport** for his philosophy on work and life. His books on deep work, digital minimalism, and slow productivity are influential in how I try to structure my work and life.

3. Best career advice?

3.1. Show up on time and do what you say you'll do.

3.2. In work, it's important to love what you do — but don't make it your whole world. It's essential to balance your work life and your personal life.

3.3. Try things that scare you. Staying in your comfort zone is the quickest way to stagnating. Always try to challenge yourself and learn something new.

4. Top 3 essential marketing skills?

4.1. **Empathy.** You can't be a good marketer until you can understand someone else's perspective or emotions.

4.2. **Communication skills.** Learn how to communicate effectively. Whether it's in written form or verbally, clear and concise communication is vital to marketing (and leadership!).

4.3. **Problem-solving.** Things don't always go to plan. You need to be flexible, creative, and able to adjust to new realities. If you take a problem-solving and solutions-based approach to your work, you'll be better for it!