Amanda Coleman Phelps, CEO of Nelson Coleman Jewelers and Jewelry By Designs
Summary of Amanda Coleman Phelps’ leadership interview
- Leadership Mentor/Role Model: Amanda was inspired by her parents, from whom she eventually bought the company. They taught her to appreciate challenges and how they positively impact personal and professional growth.
- Surprise About Leadership Role: She is surprised by the daily mix of strengths and weaknesses that arise and the need to navigate them while maintaining trust in her team and herself.
- Biggest Leadership Lesson Learned: Leadership is a continuous learning process. She has learned that listening is more important than being right, and effective communication means ensuring others understand rather than just expressing herself.
- Best Leadership Decision: Choosing to work with her parents despite the potential impact on their relationship. She trusted that they would provide an opportunity for her while continuing to care for and support her.
- Worst Business Decision: Not trusting her intuition and instead taking advice that she knew wasn’t right for the company. She also mentioned feeling “held hostage” by team members. However, she tries to turn mistakes into learning opportunities.
- Excitement About the Future of the Company: She is excited about the collaborative journey with her team, watching them grow alongside her as they build the company’s future together.
- Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs don’t have to do everything themselves. Surrounding yourself with the right people who align with your vision is key. She also emphasizes the importance of failure, as it is a natural part of growth. Accepting failure and learning from it creates new opportunities.
