Name: Lisa Brooks
Title: Vice President, Operations
Company: Brooks Litho & Digital Group, Inc.
Company URL: www.brookslitho.com
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-brooks-281baa60
Did you choose print or did print choose you?
In a way, it’s a combination of both. I’m a second-generation printer so ink has always been in my blood. However, it took a “take your daughter to work day” with my father as a young teen that solidified that choice and I haven’t looked back. From the days of working in the warehouse to answering phones and filing paperwork, I’ve been involved in print ever since.
How do you establish credibility with customers, colleagues and bosses?
Trust and communication. This isn’t just a professional lesson but a life lesson. Conduct yourself with the utmost integrity and be honest in everything you do. Don’t be afraid to admit if something is outside your expertise but always be willing to put forth the effort to learn something new. After all, that’s also how we will continue to grow!
What advice can you offer regarding negotiating salary raises/addressing fair pay issues?
Having been on both sides of this coin, it’s important to know that your expertise means something and should be highly valued by your employer. Try not to bring emotion into the discussion but rather keep to the facts that support your case. Most of all, always know your worth!
What advice did you receive early in your career that you wished you had followed?
Spend more time working ON the business than you do working IN the business. It becomes increasingly more difficult to focus your attention on growing and improving your business if you’re always involved in the minutia. Often you won’t realize it’s happening and usually, once it has, it takes a lot to dig out and get back on track. Remember that we are in an industry that is constantly evolving with new technology. It’s important that we remain knowledgeable and relevant to offer our clients the best possible experience.
