Kelsey Alders

I attribute my success to character and personal integrity. Character is everything and it's my currency. I show up authentically with self-love and confidence in all my good and bad. Leading with character builds positive working relationships because we work with human beings who want to feel heard and respected. I also never settle for mediocre and always push to take things across the finish line rather than keeping up with the status quo.

The best career advice I've received is to be the first you, not the next somebody else. When you're young you see successful women and want to be like them, but that can lead to comparison. Instead of focusing on the gap, focus on being the best version of yourself. This mindset shift helped me replace perfectionism and comparison with curiosity about what I could be.

Never think that everyone knows more than you, they've just had more time to educate themselves. Don't finish your education at graduation, continue learning by reading essential books, asking all the questions even if they seem basic, and listening to podcasts. Nobody knows everything so start somewhere trying to know as much as you can without overwhelming yourself.

A big challenge early on was feeling like I would never be taken seriously as a young cute girl entering a room. People assumed I couldn't be smart or judged me as mean without speaking to me. I've learned the importance of personal brand, showing up with intention in how I dress and carry myself to feel confident and be taken seriously. On the flip side, maintaining fitness and grooming helps men advance, showing how snap judgments work both ways.

Character and integrity are most important. I never lose sight of my personal integrity and show up authentically confident in my good and bad. I seek people who give honest advice rather than what I want to hear. Bringing people together through dinner parties and making sure no one feels lonely or unseen is fulfilling and gives me purpose.