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By Julie Morris

In a world that often confuses volume with value, introverts can feel like outsiders to
leadership. But power doesn’t have to shout to be heard. The ability to listen, reflect, and
lead with purpose creates a leadership style that resonates deeply with teams craving
authenticity and direction. When introverts embrace their natural tendencies instead of
fighting them, they unlock a path to leadership that’s both effective and sustainable.

Tapping Into the Strength of Stillness

Your ability to think before speaking isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength waiting to be refined.
Instead of jumping into the chaos of fast-paced decision-making, you can weigh options,
anticipate challenges, and plan more thoroughly than most. This kind of mental
preparation creates a calm center for teams, especially when things go sideways. Where
extroverted leaders might rely on charisma, you lead with clarity and consistency that
builds lasting trust.

The Quiet Power of Active Listening

When you listen with full attention, people feel heard in ways that inspire loyalty and
engagement. You don’t interrupt to speak over others or hijack a conversation for your
own ideas; instead, you build on what others say and make them feel valued. This skill isn’t
passive—it’s a deliberate practice that deepens connections and resolves conflict with
nuance. As a leader, the ability to listen without agenda and communicate clearly gives you
the kind of insight that drives smarter strategies.

Creating a Private Space for Growth

Keeping a private leadership journal gives you a place to reflect, analyze, and track your
own development without outside pressure. Instead of comparing yourself to others, you
get to focus on your own timeline, your personal goals, and the kind of leader you're
becoming. This habit turns abstract ideas into real patterns you can study, improve, and
learn from. Saving your journal entries as PDFs lets you revisit your evolution over time
without fear of losing track—and you can use an online tool to convert your notes into
clean, readable formats; click here to learn more.

Choosing the One-on-One Approach

Big group meetings drain energy and often leave key voices unheard. When you shift to
one-on-one conversations, you give people room to open up, ask real questions, and voice
ideas that might get lost in a louder setting. These smaller, intentional check-ins make your
leadership feel more personal and approachable. For an introvert, this is a perfect way to
build influence without having to dominate a room.

Hiring Self-Starters Who Match Your Tempo

You’re not trying to micromanage. That’s why your team should be filled with people who
take initiative and don’t need constant hand-holding. When you hire proactive workers
who thrive in autonomy, you create a space where leadership is about guidance, not
control. This lets you preserve your energy while empowering others to bring their best
ideas forward.

Pushing Beyond the Edge of Comfort

You don’t need to become someone you’re not, but stepping out of your shell—on your
terms—can open the door to unexpected growth. Leading a workshop, speaking on a panel,
or taking the lead on a project are ways to stretch your comfort zone without abandoning
your values. Every time you challenge yourself to be seen, you build a little more
confidence. These moments compound over time, helping you hold space in places you
once avoided.

Setting the Standard Through Action

Actions speak louder than words. Consistency, integrity, and staying calm in difficult
moments will always matter more than noise. When people watch how you show
up—early, prepared, and composed—they take cues on how to operate under pressure.

Leadership by example works especially well for introverts because it’s rooted in doing, not
talking.

You don’t have to flip a switch and become an extrovert to lead. What you do need is the
courage to lead from who you are—quietly, intentionally, and with the kind of self-
awareness that builds respect over time. People are tired of performative leadership; they
want grounded, real direction. You already have the tools—it’s just a matter of using them
in a way that stays true to you.

Unlock the potential of your organization with expert insights and strategies from
Managing Communications, your go-to resource for effective leadership and
communication solutions.

By Julie Morris

Photo via Pexels

Leadership isn’t just about experience—it’s about learning. The best leaders
aren’t just decision-makers; they’re students of business, psychology, and human
behavior. Whether you’re an aspiring executive or a seasoned professional,
staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous learning. Fortunately, there
are plenty of resources—from books and courses to articles and degree
programs—that can help sharpen your skills. If you’re ready to invest in your
growth, here are some of the best learning opportunities for leaders.

Books That Should Be on Every Leader’s Shelf
The right book can change how you see leadership. It can challenge outdated
ideas, introduce new perspectives, and offer practical strategies for leading
effectively.

● Dare to Lead by Brené Brown explores how vulnerability, empathy, and
courage are essential qualities in strong leaders. It’s a must-read for
anyone looking to build trust and foster collaboration.
● Good to Great by Jim Collins is a business classic that breaks down why
some companies succeed while others stagnate. His “Level 5 Leadership”
concept is essential reading for executives.
● The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz is a brutally honest
look at what it takes to lead a business through uncertainty and tough
decisions.
● The Art of War by Sun Tzu may be centuries old, but its lessons on strategy
and leadership remain relevant for modern executives.

Online Courses to Strengthen Your Leadership Skills
Formal education isn’t the only way to develop leadership skills. The internet is
full of high-quality courses designed to help professionals lead with confidence
and clarity.

● Harvard Business School’s Leadership Principles program is a rigorous
online course that teaches strategic thinking and effective decision-
making.
● Udemy’s Leadership Mastery course is an affordable, self-paced option
that covers everything from emotional intelligence to public speaking.
● Coursera’s Inspiring Leadership Through Emotional Intelligence from Case
Western Reserve University focuses on the human side of leadership,
teaching leaders how to build strong relationships.
● LinkedIn Learning offers a variety of leadership courses, including
Developing Executive Presence and Leading Productive Meetings, all taught
by industry experts.

Going Back to School to Build Your Leadership Skills
Sometimes, a more structured educational path is the best way to refine your
leadership abilities. Business schools and degree programs offer a deeper dive
into leadership theory and practice.

● Earn an online business degree – Did you know you can earn an MBA on
your own time? Take a look at the overview of an online degree in business
that allows professionals to study while continuing their careers.
● Pursue an executive education program – Institutions like MIT, Wharton,
and Stanford offer short-term executive education courses designed for
working professionals.
● Consider a master’s in organizational leadership – For those who want a
leadership-focused degree without the finance-heavy curriculum of an
MBA, an MS in Organizational Leadership can be a great option.
● Take advantage of company-sponsored education programs – Many
companies will cover the cost of leadership courses or degree programs,
so, check if your employer offers tuition assistance.

Must-Read Articles for Leadership Insights
Books and courses are great, but sometimes a well-written article can deliver
quick, actionable insights. The best leadership writing often comes from
business journals, newspapers, and industry experts.

● Harvard Business Review’s “The Best Leaders are Great Teachers” explains
why mentorship is a critical part of leadership and how to develop this skill.
● Adam Grant’s “What Kind of Boss Are You?” in The New York Times breaks
down different leadership styles and their effects on workplace culture.
● Fast Company’s “Why Every CEO Should Think Like a Designer” explores
how creative thinking can make leaders more effective problem solvers.
● The Atlantic’s “The Ethics of Leadership” dives into the moral dilemmas
leaders face and why integrity is non-negotiable.

Podcasts and Other Resources for Continuous Learning
In a fast-paced world, podcasts and other media offer a convenient way to stay
informed and inspired. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or unwinding at
home, these resources can help keep your leadership skills sharp.

● The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish features deep conversations on
leadership, decision-making, and personal growth.
● WorkLife with Adam Grant explores unconventional leadership strategies
and how to create a thriving workplace.
● The Daily Stoic Podcast applies ancient Stoic wisdom to modern leadership
challenges, helping leaders develop resilience and clarity.
● TED Talks on leadership, such as Simon Sinek’s “How Great Leaders Inspire
Action,” provide quick yet powerful lessons on effective leadership.

Great leaders don’t stop learning. They read widely, seek out new challenges, and
embrace opportunities to grow. Leadership isn’t about having all the
answers—it’s about knowing where to find them. So, if you want to lead with
confidence, make learning a lifelong habit.

Get in touch with the team at Managing Communications today and let them assist
you in growing your business or improving everyday strategies.

Image by Freepik

By Julie Morris

The landscape of corporate leadership often conceals the full spectrum of employee capabilities, leaving a wealth of potential untapped. Recognizing and cultivating the latent talents within an organization can yield substantial benefits, energizing the workforce and enhancing productivity. Leaders face the challenge of identifying these underutilized individuals and providing them with the tools to excel. Today, Managing Communications will explore a suite of strategies leaders can employ to transform overlooked employees into outstanding performers.

Cultivating Career Growth

For employees who have more to offer, the lack of growth opportunities can be stifling. Leaders must institute mechanisms that identify individuals ready for advancement and provide them with the roadmap to achieve it. Offering a transparent trajectory for progression ignites ambition and signals that the company invests in its people. Encouraging staff to pursue these opportunities demonstrates a commitment to mutual success.

Encourage and Support Continued Education

Business owners should actively support their employees who wish to further their education, particularly through flexible online programs that allow them to balance work and studies effectively. By encouraging continuous learning, employers foster a more skilled and motivated workforce. With a team member equipped with cybersecurity expertise, for instance, businesses can also better protect sensitive data, mitigate cyber threats, and strengthen their overall security posture, leading to a safer and more resilient organization. If you’re looking for a well-regarded program, this could be the ticket.

Fostering Mentorship Dynamics

A strong mentorship program can serve as an incubator for hidden talent. By pairing less utilized employees with seasoned mentors, leaders can unlock potential and bolster self-assurance. The exchange of knowledge and experience not only empowers mentees but also infuses mentors with a renewed sense of purpose. This symbiotic relationship enriches the entire corporate culture with a spirit of continuous learning.

Design Your Own Digital Training Materials

Creating effective training materials is crucial for teaching employees new skills and ensuring consistent knowledge transfer across an organization. Additionally, saving these training documents as PDFs offers several benefits that enhance this process. PDF files are easily shared and stored, making it simple to distribute knowledge across your team or organization. For further convenience in managing these documents, use this Adobe Acrobat tool to convert, compress, edit, rotate, and reorder PDFs as needed. 

Prioritizing Individual Engagement

Regular one-on-one meetings can be instrumental in pinpointing underused employees. These sessions should aim to understand the employee’s aspirations and align them with the company’s objectives. They allow leaders to recognize untapped skills and foster a tailored approach to employee development. Moreover, these interactions reinforce the value placed on each individual within the company.

Broadening Horizons

Introducing employees to different departments and roles can significantly expand their understanding of the business. This strategy not only diversifies their skill set but also enhances their adaptability and innovation capacity. Employees who grasp the interconnectivity of the business operations often develop into invaluable strategic assets. Leaders should facilitate these cross-functional experiences to foster versatile and well-rounded professionals.

Encouraging Collaborative Efforts

Fostering a workplace environment that promotes peer interaction is pivotal for stimulating innovative solutions and shared knowledge. When employees are encouraged to consult and collaborate, the collective intellect of the group elevates the quality of problem-solving, as diverse perspectives merge to overcome challenges. Such collaborative dynamics not only accelerate the resolution process but also build a strong team ethos that can tackle complex issues more effectively. Ultimately, the synergy achieved through active peer interaction is a formidable force that can drive a company’s success and innovation.

Embracing Transparency and Dialogue

A culture that values open communication and constructive feedback is essential in recognizing underused employees. Leaders should encourage staff to voice their ideas and concerns, providing a platform for recognition and development. Feedback should be a two-way street, with leaders providing clear, actionable insights that help employees improve and excel. Establishing trust through transparency paves the way for more profound employee engagement and discovery of hidden potential.

Identifying and nurturing underused talent within an organization requires a deliberate and multifaceted approach. By implementing strategies that offer growth, mentorship, individual attention, and opportunities for broadened experiences and education, leaders can convert underutilized potential into exceptional performance. This proactive engagement in employee development not only propels individuals to new heights but also brings substantial gains to the organization’s capabilities and culture.

Whether you’re launching a new business or just looking to grow, Managing Communications can help! Call (757) 513-8633.

Our Agenda for the Meeting…

More about our Panelists…

Cindy Rapier, Allfirst Employee Education and Apprenticeship Coordinator / Mid Atlantic Academy of Skilled Trades holds a Bachelor’s in Education and a Master’s in Business from Liberty University. In her role, Cindy oversees strategic initiatives to align and enhance training at Allfirst, ensuring that employees develop the skills and knowledge essential for success on the job site. She also leads efforts to inspire the next generation by raising awareness about career opportunities in the skilled trades, aiming to provide all interested high school students with pathways to learn these valuable skills. With over 20 years of experience in creating educational foundations for high school students, Cindy partners with Allfirst and the Mid Atlantic Academy of Skilled Trades to develop apprenticeship programs and community outreach that promote skilled trades. She will also work to secure funding to open new pathways for students, enhancing their employability and preparing them for a successful transition into the workforce.Read More→

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Author: Julie Morris
juliemorris@juliemorris.org

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, companies are realizing the importance of breaking down silos and promoting cross-functional collaboration. While creating a cohesive team environment is essential, it is equally critical to establish a clear line of communication among various departments. Unfortunately, many organizations find difficulty in executing optimized interdepartmental collaboration. Today, Managing Communications will explore some practical strategies to boost interdepartmental communication and collaboration.

Identify Common Pain Points

The first step toward improving interdepartmental communication and collaboration is to identify the most common pain points that hamper productivity. Some of the most common challenges include lack of transparency, poor communication, unclear expectations, and competing priorities. By identifying these pain points, teams can come up with tailored solutions to overcome them.

Utilize Online Tools to Maximize Efficiency

It’s practically impossible to run a successful business without a streamlined method of document storage. Otherwise, paperwork quickly becomes overwhelming – especially when important files get lost. To avoid this, here’s a solution: Get in the habit of scanning your important files and saving them as PDFs, which facilitates better organization and sharing. You’ll also be able to store your files on your devices with ease, and if necessary, free tools like this can change files back to their original formats in seconds.

Hold Frequent Interdepartmental Gatherings

Regular cross-departmental meetings are essential to foster collaboration and improve communication. Organizing face-to-face meetings (or virtual) enables different departments to understand the current state of projects, share ideas, and brainstorm new opportunities. These meetings also help identify potential roadblocks and conflicts early on, leading to quicker problem resolution and keeping projects on track.

Encourage Openness

Transparency is critical when promoting collaboration across departments. It is vital to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding project goals and objectives. Ensuring transparency means disseminating information that is relevant and useful to specific departments. Managers need to ensure that the information flow is constant, consistent, and timely across all departments.

Open Up the Lines of Communication

Creating open channels of communication allows employees to engage in informal discussions, share ideas, and resolve issues quickly. Open communication channels can be in the form of social media platforms, wikis, and chat rooms. These channels allow employees to converse in real time, enabling them to respond to time-sensitive issues quickly. It’s essential to empower employees to use these channels, ensuring confidential information doesn’t leak out.

Use Collaboration-Enhancing Tools

Tools like Trello and Google Docs can enhance collaboration, making it easier for employees from different departments to work together in real time. Trello allows teams to track progress, assign tasks, and set milestones. On the other hand, Google Docs allows teams to work simultaneously on projects, add comments, and make edits in real time.

Create Clear Guidelines and Expectations

Clear guidelines and expectations ensure that everyone is aware of their role in the department and on the project. By having clear guidelines and expectations, departments can work together without stepping on each other’s toes. Guidelines that are easy to follow and concise enable teams to focus on project goals and objectives while streamlining the collaborative process.

Breaking down interdepartmental silos can be a challenging process, but it is essential for companies that want to stay competitive in today’s business environment. This article has explored a few strategies to help organizations improve communication and collaboration across departments. By holding cross-departmental meetings, digitizing your important documents, and more, companies can improve collaboration, reduce the number of errors, save time, and stay on top of their project timelines.

Ready to elevate your business communications? Visit Managing Communications Consulting today to harness expert strategies that drive success from concept to execution. Don’t miss out—let’s start building those critical relationships and improving your results.

We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the first National Youth Apprenticeship Week than sharing in the Second Southside Hampton Roads Workforce CTE Forum, on May 8, 2024, 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at Centura College, 4455 South Blvd., Suite 200, Virginia Beach. We hope you will join us for an opportunity to network, learn, and partner with others to bring more opportunities for high school students to gain valuable learning experiences in the careers we need them to be prepared to fill. Come spend the morning with our cities’ businesses, workforce development professionals, community colleges/universities, and the region’s high school system’s CTE Specialists.

You must sign up on Eventbrite at and our 100 seats are filling fast!

For more information, contact the Forum Founder and Host, Susan Long-Molnar, at susan@managingcommunications.com. After you register, you may email me which breakout group you would like to attend (send me a 1st choice and 2nd choice):

Job Shadowing ▪ Internships ▪​Externships ▪ Mentorships ▪Cooperative Education

What you need to know…
The Forum is conveniently located off 264 and there is plenty of parking around the Centura College building. We will begin on the second floor at 8:30 so come in for a continental breakfast and networking. The agenda includes a greeting by Mayor Kenny Alexandar, Chancellor of Centura College, updates from…

Dr. Nikki Finley, Secondary Workforce Development Specialist_ Region 2
Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Virginia Department of Education CTE

Christina Brooks, Senior Director, Community Initiatives, Hampton Roads Workforce Development Council.

We look forward to hearing from our Panelists this year!

James L. Templeton, President of Allfirst, LLC has been in the Industrial Contracting field since 1992. He started as a 2nd Class Mechanic who now oversees all Division Managers, Safety Managers, Project Managers, and field employees. James served in the Virginia Army National Guard and was activated for Desert Storm. Through his military and fire department background, James gained experience supporting what he does today. His commitment to safety and quality has resulted in Allfirst winning numerous awards. James community contributions have focused in many cases on our youth including the YMCA Board and Chair, Children Today Leaders Tomorrow, Hero Kids Foundation and ROC Solid Foundation as a current Building Leader.

Christina Perez, Learning & Development Manager at HRSD is responsible for leading HRSD’s employee development and learning programs and facilitating strategic alignment with organizational goals through collaboration and innovation. Christina received her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering from Old Dominion University, her Master of Education in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education from The Pennsylvania State University, and her Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation at New York University. She has worked at HRSD for over 16 years, beginning in the Water Quality Department and transitioning to the training division while also serving as an apprenticeship instructor and a quality facilitator. In her current position, Christina also serves as Chair of the Continuing Education and Development Committee for the Virginia Water Environment Association.

Gene Thompson, Fleet Director of Operations, at Day & Zimmermann, has been working in the fossil and nuclear energy industries since retiring from the Navy in 2001. Gene took his experience and leadership skills into the private sector in management roles of increasing responsibility overseeing field projects at power stations. He currently supports Dominion Energy Southeast nuclear sites. Gene is active with the Virginia Community College System, Virginia Department of Education, and local communities introducing students to nuclear craft careers and developing a Nuclear Worker Training Program to bring persons into the industry. He also serves on D&Z’s DE&I committee.

Kelli Considine is the Education and Talent Development Specialist at the Virginia Spaceport Authority. In her role she provides strategic leadership by articulating the needs of the program and plans to both the workforce and various institutions with which VSA is continuously building partnerships. She helps to establish and maintain clear lines of communication to K-12 schools and universities throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Her responsibilities as a specialist include assisting with the year-round internship program which includes recruiting and hiring interns. She attends multiple education events including career fairs, information sessions at various organizations in efforts to encourage and engage students to pursue a career at VSA and helps facilitate field trips to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS). Kelli has a BS in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Old Dominion University and is currently obtaining a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Regent University. Her goals are to help inspire, educate, and encourage students of all different backgrounds to pursue a career in which they are passionate about.

Rob Huffman, Executive Director, Chick-Fil-A, is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. His commitment to impactful leadership is evident in the development of The Elements Leadership Training Series, a program designed to empower leaders across diverse contexts. He currently serves as the Chief People Officer / Executive Director at Chick-Fil-A in VA Beach, where he is responsible for strategically shaping and executing leadership initiatives. This role allows him to apply his extensive leadership experience to a dynamic and impactful organization. In the realm of strategic development, Rob’s contributions have led to the growth of organizations by over 100%. His implementation of people + profit philosophies and his ability to develop organizational culture underscores his commitment to holistic organizational development. Above all, Rob Huffman’s passion lies in continuous learning, personal development, and the empowerment of individuals on their leadership journey.

Thank you to our Sponsors!

Learn more….

Allfirst, LLC is an industrial general contractor and metal fabricator, as well as provider of HVAC services, located in Suffolk, VA. As an industrial contractor, Allfirst specializes in food & beverage, foundries, industrial manufacturing, oil & gas terminals, paper mills, power generation plants, and steel & pipe fabrication. Specializing in industrial and commercial construction, Allfirst boasts over 50 years of combined experience in the field. With a strong knowledge base and expertise, the company is committed to delivering construction projects safely and cost-effectively, from inception to completion. Their extensive experience likely enables them to tackle a wide range of construction challenges and ensure client satisfaction throughout the entire process.

Author: Julie Morris, juliemorris@juliemorris.org

Achieving long-lasting success in the small business sector requires strategic foresight and adaptability. This exploration focuses on key strategies to solidify the foundation of your small business. From Managing Communications Consulting, these strategies are designed to ensure your business’s prosperity over the long term. They equip you to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the dynamic small business landscape.

Writing a Comprehensive Business Plan

You need to start with a meticulously crafted business plan. This plan should not only delineate your objectives and intended audience but also offer detailed financial projections. Possessing a clear roadmap is instrumental in keeping your business trajectory aligned with your goals. This strategic planning is the bedrock upon which your small business can steadily build its future successes. Some businesses create a plan which focus on the financials but do not include a strategic marketing plan which identifies the specific strategies for how they will develop their revenue.  (please include this link https://managingcommunications.com/strategic-planning/

Increasing Efficiency with Document Management

Consider the benefits of introducing a document management system into your operations. Here’s a solution – converting a PDF to Excel allows for easy manipulation and analysis of tabular data, providing a more versatile and editable format. Such systems streamline your administrative tasks, transforming complex data management into a more efficient and manageable process. Embracing this technology can significantly boost your operational effectiveness, ensuring that your business runs like a well-oiled machine.

Using Insights from In-Depth Market Analysis

Deeply understanding your market is a cornerstone of small business success. This entails a thorough comprehension of customer preferences and a keen awareness of your competitors. Making decisions based on informed insights is a powerful tool in your arsenal, one that can steer your business toward sustainable growth and away from unforeseen pitfalls.

Streamlining with AI Automation Tools

Investing in AI automation tools can revolutionize your workflow. These tools not only expedite processes but also significantly reduce manual labor. The time saved here can be redirected towards strategic thinking and future planning. Automation and AI are not just about keeping pace with technological advancements; they’re about staying ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape. We would love to talk to you about an upcoming webinar for how to use AI effectively in creating posts and articles for your LinkedIn profile and company page.

Crafting Impactful Marketing Tactics

Develop marketing strategies that truly resonate with your target demographic. This involves a balanced mix of online and traditional marketing tactics. By crafting messages that speak directly to your audience’s needs and preferences, you can create a marketing campaign that not only captures attention but also fosters lasting engagement.

Strengthening your Digital Presence

Your business’s success in today’s digital world depends heavily on a strong online presence. Enhance your business profile by optimizing your website, engaging actively on social media, and exploring e-commerce opportunities. A potent digital presence significantly increases your visibility and draws in more customers. These online platforms provide new ways to interact with customers and generate revenue. Such digital engagement is crucial for the growth and expansion of your business.

Prioritizing Customer Satisfaction

Your customers are the lifeblood of your business, so prioritizing their satisfaction is crucial. Offer exceptional service and maintain open communication to keep them content. Happy customers often become brand ambassadors, actively promoting your business. Their loyalty and advocacy contribute significantly to building a strong customer base.

Embracing Innovation

In the ever-changing business world, your agility and adaptability are essential. Stay prepared to pivot with market changes, embrace new trends, and seize emerging opportunities. Your capacity to adapt ensures your business remains relevant and competitive. Navigating the fast-paced market effectively keeps your business ahead of the curve.

By crafting a solid business plan and maintaining operational agility, you ensure your small business thrives long-term. Concentrating on these crucial aspects builds a resilient, dynamic foundation for your venture. This approach not only bolsters your current operations but also sets a clear path for future growth. You’re laying the groundwork for a business that’s equipped to succeed and expand in an ever-changing market.