So there I was, standing at the #SocialforGood Conference podium about to hand out awards to some well-deserving social entrepreneurs like EMBERS Marcia Nozick. But first, I had to get through my keynote without crying. Each time I attempted to start my speech, that feeling of overwhelming emotion would rise up, making it impossible for me to talk without tears.
I looked out into the audience and spotted three people who work at YMC. The words I was trying to speak were written for them.
I get emotional when I talk about YMC. It started almost a decade ago as a way for me to meet other like minded women with kids. As the site grew and evolved into YMC Works, a profitable digital media company, I have managed to surround myself with a team of self-motivated, hardworking, creative people to help me grow the business. But what my unsuspecting staff didn't know was that I had an "evil plan" involving them which was hatched way back in the 80's.
Back in the day when I made a living talking about music and wearing kooky hats, I worked for a major broadcasting company with less than stellar management skills. There was a distinct lack of employee training, I was paid less than the men who did a comparable job, and I was frequently reminded I could be easily replaced. Basically, the implication was I should thank my lucky stars I had this dream job. Well, they were right; I did have a dream job I adored, but their management style made me feel off balance and insecure. I remember experiencing anxiety coming into work as self-doubt crept into my work - not great for someone representing the company on camera on a daily basis.
I remember thinking to myself that if I ever had people working for me I would treat them the exact opposite way I was treated at my job.
Fast forward twenty-odd years and here I am, the CEO of this amazing digital media company, writing cheques to 90 people a month, and now standing in front of a kindred audience of social entrepreneurs.
Conference founder Leigh Mitchell introduced me as someone who practices social good by virtue of empowering moms through YMC. But that's really only half the story - the half that reflects the public face of my business. There's another equally meaningful side to the business of YMC.
Erica with Cass
I stood at the podium describing how I practice #SocialForGood behind the scenes, and how it ties into my evil plan to change your world.
For the past ten years, I've been able to walk the walk and talk the talk because I make it a priority to ensure each person who works with YMC knows how they are appreciated. Unlike my past bosses, I make it a point to tell them, show them, thank them, and let them know they are NOT easily replaceable. No one is. Everyone brings a unique perspective and voice to make a business what it is.
Erica with Andrea, Hailey, Jen, Jen, Evelyn, and Annabel
For me, it's essential that everyone I employ feels valued and heard. The trickle down effect? Hopefully the people I work with feel good about themselves and pass that good vibe onto their friends and family. Six degrees of goodness!
And that's my evil plan - to very subtly change the world, one person at a time, simply by treating them with respect.
Erica and Jeni, Katja, Candace
And there's another evil agenda those of us with businesses can't deny. When your team well, you reap the financial benefits of productivity, creativity, leadership, and passion. I can tell you that the gang at YMC have told me on several occasions they have never worked harder at any job and have never enjoyed what they did more. (THANK YOU AGAIN!) (Ed. note: Every word, all true.) Because of their dedication, the business of YMC continues to flourish. It's really a win/win scenario for everyone involved.
Erica and Sharon
So, what's the point of this post? Not to brag about the awesomeness of the team I have the honour of working with everyday. No; instead it's a rallying cry to other business owners to take a hard look at how you work with those who work with you. If your experience is anything like mine, you will reap the benefits and then some.
Trust me. It's good to be "evil."
(Ed. note: And trust us, Erica; we are all equally as glad to have such an "evil" boss. XO)
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