Empowering Leaders: Connection and Development – PART ONE

Hi everyone!! We are ending this week with another interview! I interviewed Sheri Treu, who is the Manager of Organizational Development at Menasha Corporation. She has provided me with information regarding how leadership development has impacted her work environment over her career. She has worked for Menasha Corporation for 32 years and helped design a cultural transformation program for one of their subsidiaries, ORBIS. This role tasked her with designing, developing, and implementing a program called LEAF, which I’ll discuss in part two. Let’s get into the interview…

How would you describe your leadership philosophy, and how do you apply it in your work?

Sheri explained that their passion for leadership comes from “listening, discovering and connecting leaders to the right tools for themselves and their teams to change behaviors and build the right habits.” She also mentioned that connection is very important. “When we take the time to learn we need to take the time to connect.” I found this very insightful because it provided me with a deeper understanding of how powerful connections can be if you take the time to make them. Sheri mentioned that she has a learner mindset. She explained this as continuing your education. She reads articles, and books and listens to podcasts to “continue to grow as a leader.” After you take the time to further your education you need to apply what you learned to your team. 

What do you think are the key traits of an effective leader, especially in a corporate environment?

“KEY trait – DO NOT act or try to be the smartest person in the room.” – Sheri

Sheri mentioned that when in a corporate setting you need to communicate and collaborate with others for long-term success. You cannot just talk and give your opinion about a situation without hearing someone else’s. In the corporate world, it is important to look at the long-term success not only the short-term. 

Are there any specific tools or resources you suggest women use to develop their leadership skills and confidence?

Sheir suggested knowing where you need or could improve. It is important to continue to learn and grow your knowledge. She also suggested networking! “Jump into training that is designed with and for women to have a space to connect – but until you know WHAT you need to work on? Don’t just learn to learn — find purpose and value!” – Sheri

Is there a particular book, podcast, or person that you would recommend others to look into?

Sheri told me that she loves to learn more about her work. Her top books are Atomic Habits, Radical Candor, Find Your WHY, and Outward Mindset but she said her list can go on. She also enjoys audio books that widen her understanding of “human behavior and building habits, smart brevity, and the art of small talk.” Sheri also likes podcasts, her top picks are Hidden Brain, TED tx, and Coaching For Leaders. She also mentioned that each time she listens to a podcast episode her books list grows. 

I loved the opportunity to connect with Sheri about her career and her perspectives on topics. I asked her a lot of questions so I decided to split the interview into two posts. Part two comes out next week! 

-Brea