jpg logo cropped

Kathryn Janicek

Why Social Media is Essential for Companies in Today’s Digital Age

by

Social Media is Your Company’s First Impression

Before a meeting, an interview, or even a casual introduction, people research leaders and businesses online. After we teach leaders how to use social media, like Linkedin, better – they see a big difference in attracting top talent and sales.

Future employees, current and future customers, and investors check LinkedIn, Instagram, and other platforms to get a sense of who you are. They’ll see how you feel about certain issues, where you went to college, and whether you play a sport — all before shaking your hand.

Gone are the days of a strict “work-only” persona. Consumers and professionals want to do business with people, not faceless corporations. Your social media presence should reflect the humans behind the brand. When people can see your values, interests, and company culture, they’re more likely to trust and engage with you.

How Social Media Builds Connection and Trust

Think about the last time you considered working with a company or buying a product. Chances are, you checked their website and social media. What you found either reinforced your trust—or sent you looking elsewhere.

Social media provides an opportunity to show authenticity. It allows potential employees, partners, and customers to see beyond your services and into the culture of your company.

Let’s say someone looks up your company and finds that employees share their volunteer work, passion for sports, or community involvement. That small connection might be the deciding factor in why they choose to apply, invest, or partner with you.

Why Social Media Matters Beyond Hiring

Many companies treat social media as a hiring tool—and while it certainly plays a role in recruitment, its impact goes far beyond job searches.

A strong social media presence helps:

  • Attract customers: People want to buy from brands they trust. Showing the faces behind your company creates relatability and credibility.
  • Retain employees: When employees feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed.
  • Showcase company culture: Whether you’re sharing a team outing, an employee spotlight, or a behind-the-scenes look at your business, social media highlights what it’s like to be part of your company.

Key Strategies for an Effective Company Social Media Presence

1. Encourage Employee Participation

Your employees are your greatest brand ambassadors. Encourage them to share professional achievements, company milestones, and industry insights. This not only boosts authenticity but also expands your brand’s reach through their networks. Pro Tip: Create a simple social media guideline that empowers employees to post while maintaining brand consistency.

2. Showcase Your Values and Community Involvement

People connect with brands that stand for something. Whether it’s corporate social responsibility, sustainability efforts, or diversity initiatives,  highlight how your company makes an impact beyond the bottom line.

3. Balance Professional and Personal Content

Social media shouldn’t feel robotic. While it’s important to share industry insights and company updates, don’t forget to humanize your brand. Employee stories, team traditions, and even lighthearted office moments help create a well-rounded online presence.

Common Mistakes Companies Make on Social Media

Mistake 1: Only Posting Job Listings

While job openings are important, they shouldn’t dominate your feed.

Instead, share:

  • Success stories: Client wins, team achievements
  • Company culture highlights: Employee spotlights, workplace events
  • Industry insights: Expert opinions, trends

Mistake 2: Ignoring Engagement

Social media is a two-way street. If customers, potential employees, or partners engage with your content, respond! A lack of interaction can make your company appear unapproachable or uninterested.

Mistake 3: Keeping Social Media Separate from Company Goals

Your social media presence should align with your company’s mission and vision. If leadership and employees don’t see its value, the content will feel disconnected and uninspired.

Social Media is a Business Essential

Social media is no longer optional—it’s a must-have for business growth. Companies that use it strategically attract top talent, build trust with customers, and stand out from the competition. 

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in training leaders to accelerate growth, command attention, and drive innovation through impactful communication. If you’re ready to refine your presence, project confidence, and take control of your message, reach out today to learn how we can help.

Every Conversation is a Pitch: How to Sell Yourself with Confidence and Authority

by

The Power of Selling Yourself

You may not think it is – but every time you show up, you’re selling yourself. 

You’re selling your brand, your company, and what you bring to the world.

This is not scary. It’s not smarmy. It’s just the facts.

It’s your chance to build a relationship and showcase your unique value. Whether you’re pitching your services, presenting a bold idea, or leading a team, your public speaking and communication skills define who you are to audiences. Confident leaders aren’t just born—they’re made through intentional practice, honing their speaking skills, and showing up with clarity and confidence.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in executive presence coaching for Fortune 500 executives, subject matter experts, and high-performing sales teams. Our focus is on sharpening communication skills to ensure every conversation elevates your credibility, influence, and magnetism. 

What Are You Really Selling?

Your expertise, leadership, and ability to drive action start with how you present yourself. If your audience isn’t clear on what you do and why it matters, it’s time to refine your message.

Here’s where most people go wrong:

  • Using vague language that dilutes their expertise.
  • Hesitation making others question their confidence.
  • Body language and vocal tone sending mixed signals.

Clarity and conviction set leaders apart. If you aren’t clear on what you bring to the table, no one else will be either.

How to Communicate Confidence in Every Interaction

The key to effective communication isn’t just what you say—it’s how you say it. Here’s how to refine your message and make sure your presence reinforces your expertise.

1. Eliminate Uncertainty from Your Language

Phrases like “I think,” “I just,” or “Hopefully” weaken your message. 

Here are more words and phrases that are seen as weak. You’ll want to start working on eliminating these now:

  • “I think…”
  • “I might be able to…”
  • “This may work for you…”
  • “I believe…”
  • “I’m not sure”
  • “I’ll try”
  • “You know”
  • “Hopefully”
  • “I’m sorry to bother you”
  • “Kind of”
  • “I can’t.”
  • “So”
  • “Just”
  • “Sorry”
  • “Actually”
  • “Um”
  • “Maybe”

Speak with certainty: 

  • “I know” 
  • “We will” 
  • “This is the impact.” 

The words you choose shape how people perceive your authority

2. Make Your Value Clear

If someone asked what you do, would they immediately understand your value? Avoid jargon and focus on the outcome. 

Instead of listing tasks, highlight results:

  • Instead of: “I manage marketing campaigns.”
  • Say: “I help companies increase revenue by creating strategies that convert leads into customers.”

3. Stop One-Downing Yourself

There’s also language that makes you sound like you think less of yourself than your audience, client, or team. This gives off a lack of self-confidence. If you don’t sound confident, people won’t be confident in your or your product/service. Here are a few examples of phrases people commonly use that “one-down” themselves:

“I’d be honored to help you…”

“I’m honored to be here speaking with you all…”

“I’d be honored to show you our options…”

4. Align Your Body Language with Your Message

Your posture, eye contact, and gestures should reinforce confidence. Fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, or speaking too quickly can send mixed messages. Stand tall, make deliberate movements, and control your pace.

5. Own Your Expertise

Leaders don’t wait for permission to establish credibility. If you’re an expert, speak like one. Present your knowledge with confidence, and don’t downplay your experience.

6. Practice Until It Feels Natural

Every great communicator refines their delivery. Sharpening your communication skills takes intentional effort, whether through media training, leadership coaching, or practice in real conversations.

Why Selling Yourself is Leadership in Action

Confident communication isn’t just about words—it’s about presence, clarity, and influence. Mastering self-talk may feel awkward at first, but it’s a skill-building powerhouse. It’s one of the first steps to becoming a magnetic leader who inspires action and drives impactful results.

You’re already selling yourself in every conversation. The question is—are you doing it effectively? If you’re ready to refine your message, communicate with confidence, and eliminate doubt from your delivery, we can help.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in leadership training that transforms communication skills. Let’s work together to make sure every conversation positions you as a confident, compelling leader.

Why Every Leader Needs Meditation

by

Unlocking the Superpower of Intuition and Presence Through Mindfulness

Leadership demands swift decisions, dynamic strategies, and meaningful relationships. While meditation might not seem like an obvious tool for success, it’s one of the most transformative practices a leader can adopt. Beyond inner peace, meditation cultivates intuition, enhances presence, and fosters impactful, self-aware leadership.

Imagine if you could:

✨ Heighten your awareness of what’s happening around you
✨ Tap into your intuition for better decision-making
✨ Draw people toward you effortlessly
✨ Align your words with your body language
✨ Boost your success

Wouldn’t you do it? Of course, you would!

This exact topic came up in a recent conversation I had with our leadership mindset coach, Ruthie Landis. Ruthie wears many hats: body-centered psychotherapist, executive coach, Enneagram teacher, author, and more. Together, we explored how meditation can unlock leadership superpowers in a 10-minute video. Trust me, her practical tips are worth your time. Watch it below and take the first step toward transforming your leadership.

How meditation can make you a better leader

Meditation Helps You Hone Your Intuition as a Leader

Great leaders often attribute their success to an uncanny ability to make the right call, even when data is incomplete, or the stakes are high. This “gut feeling” or intuition isn’t magic—it’s the result of a mind that has learned to tune out noise and focus on what matters. Meditation helps you hone that inner compass.

When your mind is free from constant chatter, you’re better equipped to recognize patterns, anticipate challenges, and trust your instincts. Meditation sharpens intuition, allowing leaders to:

  • Make confident decisions: By reducing overthinking, meditation lets you access your inner wisdom.
  • Stay adaptable: Intuition fosters the ability to pivot strategies when needed without second-guessing every move.
  • Build trust: A leader who exudes calm and clarity inspires confidence in their team.

Enhancing Presence for Deeper Connections

In leadership, presence is more than being physically in the room; it’s about being fully engaged and attuned to others. A leader’s presence sets the tone for their team—it can inspire, motivate, and create a sense of safety and collaboration.

Meditation trains the mind to focus on the present moment, making it easier to:

  • Listen actively: Teams thrive when leaders truly hear their concerns and ideas.
  • Communicate authentically: Presence allows for honest, empathetic, and effective communication.
  • Foster stronger relationships: By being fully present, leaders build trust and loyalty within their teams and networks.

The Science Behind Meditation’s Benefits for Executives

Research backs the transformative effects of meditation on the brain and body. Regular meditation:

How to Get Started: Simple Meditation Practices

You don’t need to spend hours in the lotus position to see results. Meditation can fit into even the busiest leader’s schedule. Here are a few easy ways to begin:

  1. Pause and breathe: Take three deep breaths before a meeting or task.
  2. Five minutes a day: Start small—sit quietly and focus on your breath.
  3. Set an intention: Decide how you want to show up and let that guide your day.
  4. Be present in waiting moments: Use everyday pauses to center yourself.

Unlock Your Leadership Potential

I’m committing to at least three minutes of meditation daily in 2025. Maybe it’ll grow to 20 minutes—who knows? Meditation is a simple step toward unlocking leadership potential.

Ready to join me? Watch our video with Ruthie Landis where we discuss the power of meditation for leaders. Together, let’s make 2025 the year we embrace intuition, presence, and power.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in helping leaders like you achieve peak performance. From tailored coaching to actionable strategies, we’re here to support your journey. Ready to take the next step? Let’s turn your leadership vision into reality.

Reflecting on a Year of Transformation and Growth in Public Speaking and Leadership Communication

by

Reflecting on a Year of Transformation and Growth in Public Speaking and Leadership Communication

As 2024 is over, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the incredible milestones our clients and our team achieved. From preparing leaders for impactful sales meetings, keynotes, and TEDx talks to conquering fears of public speaking and media training – the journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Let’s celebrate the highlights that made this year unforgettable—and set your stage for even greater success in 2025.

Empowering a TEDx Talk That Moved Audiences

One of the standout moments of the year was working with Abbie Clary on her TEDx Talk. The healthcare changes she wants to see – combined with her storytelling and extensive experience in healthcare design – makes this TEDx Talk a must watch. Through our public speaking training, she gained more confidence and tools to connect authentically with her audience.

Here’s what Abbie had to say:

"Working with Kathryn Janicek was an incredible experience. Her guidance not only helped me feel confident and comfortable on stage but also allowed me to deliver one of the most personal and meaningful talks of my career. Sharing my father’s story and advocating for empathy and humanity in healthcare design was deeply emotional, and Kathryn gave me the tools to connect authentically with my audience. I’m so grateful for her expertise in helping me bring such an important message to life."
Abigail Clary
Global Director of Health at CannonDesign

Helping professionals like Abby bring their stories to life is at the heart of what we do. Public speaking training is about amplifying your voice and making an impact.

From Media Spotlight to Leadership Confidence

Dr. Lynn O’Connor made headlines in February when she appeared on Good Morning America, where she shared her historic role as the NYPD’s first Black female police surgeon. Media training for professionals like Dr. O’Connor ensures they can confidently share their expertise and message on high-profile platforms.

dr lynn o'connor on good morning america

We also worked with Dr. Dalal Alhajji, who faced her fear of public speaking head-on. With our guidance, she delivered a major presentation at the country’s largest dental school, passed her surgical exam, and began her surgical internship.

Dr. Alhajji shared how the Janicek Performance Group leadership communication training impacted her career:

"I’ve gained confidence, become more involved in the dental community, and found new opportunities to share my story. I never thought this level of growth was possible."
Dr. Dalal Alhajji
Dr. Dalal Alhajji
Janicek Performance Group Client

Stories like these underscore the power of professional development training to transform not just careers but also personal confidence.

Highlighting Corporate Leadership Workshops

In 2024, we hosted several three-day “Communicating with Impact” leadership workshops for corporations, delivering actionable insights to executives seeking to strengthen their public speaking and presentation skills. Here’s what the participants had to say:

janicek performance group reviews

Workshops like these are designed to help executives and teams build leadership presence and communicate effectively in high-stakes environments. This hands-on, experiential approach sets our corporate communication training apart.

Tools That Build Confidence On Camera

We received glowing feedback about our resources, like the “Seven Biggest Mistakes Executives Make On Camera” guide. One executive shared her experience:

“The tips on clothing colors, lighting, and minimizing filler words were incredibly helpful. Your resources gave me the confidence I needed for my first podcast appearance.”

Whether it’s media training for professionals or equipping executives for public-facing opportunities, our tools are designed to make every interaction impactful.

Growing Our Team and Expanding Services

We’re excited to share that Janicek Performance Group has expanded! With new coaches, we’re even better equipped to deliver high-quality public speaking training, executive mindset training, leadership communication workshops, sales performance coaching, and executive presentation coaching. Our team’s growth reflects our commitment to helping professionals at every stage of their journey.

Meet our team >

Janicek Performance Group team

Looking Ahead to 2025

I’m filled with gratitude for the leaders and companies we’ve worked with in 2024. 2024 was a year of transformation for our clients. If you want to overcome public speaking fear, prepare for a TEDx talk, improve your sales team’s performance, or elevate your leadership presence, 2025 is your year. Let’s make it happen together.

Thank you for trusting us to be a part of your journey. Here’s to amplifying your voice and achieving new heights in the year ahead!

How Focusing on Your Health and Wellness Makes You a Better Leader

by

How focusing on health and wellness can make you a better leader

When we think of success, we often picture hard work, long hours, and a relentless drive to accomplish more. For many, that image includes putting their health, relationships, and personal well-being on the back burner. But here’s the truth: Success isn’t about how much you can grind—it’s about how well you can sustain your performance over time.

This came up during a recent executive coaching session. I was working with a leader who was putting in 70-hour weeks. He was visibly hunched over with back pain, and when I asked about his goals, he mentioned building a strong team and achieving success. But his body language told a different story—one of exhaustion, discomfort, and stress.

I told him what I’m going to tell you now: Success isn’t sustainable if your body and mind are running on empty.

The Link Between Physical Health and Mental Clarity

Your body and mind are deeply connected. Chronic pain, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and unrelenting stress can cloud your thinking, drain your energy, and diminish your effectiveness as a leader. When you’re in physical discomfort, your brain diverts energy to managing that pain, leaving less bandwidth for critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making.

On the flip side, when you prioritize your health, you’re sharper, more focused, and better equipped to handle the challenges of leadership. A healthy body supports a resilient mind, and resilience is the cornerstone of long-term success. Strong leaders know that taking care of their bodies is not an indulgence—it’s a leadership necessity.

Why Overworking Is a Recipe for Burnout

Society glorifies the hustle, but let’s be honest: Overworking isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a fast track to burnout. Working 70, 80, or even more hours a week might give you a short-term boost in productivity, but the long-term consequences can be devastating:

  • Health issues like chronic pain, high blood pressure, and fatigue.
  • Decreased productivity due to lack of focus and poor decision-making.
  • Strained relationships as personal connections take a backseat.
  • Loss of creativity because your mind is too overloaded to think outside the box.

Success isn’t about how many hours you work; it’s about the quality of those hours. When you’re well-rested, healthy, and present, you accomplish more in less time and with greater impact.

Strong Leaders Practice Self-Care and Focus on Their Health & Wellness to  Sharpen Their Leadership

If you’re ready to break free from the cycle of overworking and start thriving, here are actionable steps to take to make you a more focused leader:

1. Move Every Day.

You don’t need to spend hours in the gym, but regular movement is non-negotiable. Take a 20-minute walk, try yoga, or do some basic stretching. Even 10 minutes of light exercise can boost your mood and energy.

2. See the Doctor.

Many men avoid regular checkups, but catching potential health issues early can save you time, money, and pain down the line. Schedule your annual physical, and don’t ignore nagging aches or pains.

3. Fuel Your Body.

Food is fuel. Eating balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can give you the energy you need to lead effectively. Avoid the temptation of quick fixes like fast food and energy drinks—they’ll only slow you down in the long run.

4. Set Boundaries.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of being available 24/7, but setting clear work boundaries is essential. Decide when your workday ends, and stick to it. Use that extra time to recharge and connect with loved ones.

5. Sleep well, lead better..

Sleep is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night, and give yourself permission to take breaks during the day. Rest allows your mind and body to recover, so you can perform at your best.

6. FIND YOUR FRIENDS.

When was the last time you connected with your old friends? We are a culture of loneliness, and it’s killing us. Spending time with family and friends isn’t just good for your relationships—it’s good for YOU. 

7. Delegate and Empower Your Team.

Leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself—it’s about building a team you trust to share the load. By delegating responsibilities, you free up time to focus on strategy, vision, and your own well-being.

When you’re at your best, you’re unstoppable

Men often feel pressure to provide, to succeed, and to shoulder the weight of responsibility. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s smart. It’s what allows you to show up fully for your work, your family, and your own goals.

You have permission to feel good, to take time for yourself, and to prioritize your health. Because when you’re at your best, you’re unstoppable.

At Janicek Performance Group, we help leaders like you develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to thrive in high-pressure environments. Whether you’re working on public speaking, media training, or executive leadership, we’ll guide you to align your personal well-being with your professional goals. Ready to start your journey? Let’s connect.

The Best Times to Email Journalists with Your Story

by

What does it take to land your story in the news? A compelling pitch, certainly. But there’s one detail people often overlook: timing.

Recently, during a media training session with a client, they asked me a simple question:

“Is now a good time to email a journalist?”

 

It was a Friday afternoon, and I immediately said:

“Absolutely not!”

Timing is everything when it comes to pitching journalists. Reporters, TV producers, assignment editors, newspaper editors, anchors and all journalists receive hundreds of pitches a week – if not a day.

If your email arrives at the wrong moment, even the best story idea might get buried in a crowded inbox. But when you hit their inbox at the right time? That’s when the magic happens.

The Secret to Perfect Pitch Timing

Journalists’ days are structured around meetings that dictate what stories they’ll cover and how their resources will be allocated. By understanding their schedule, you can strategically time your email to grab their attention RIGHT BEFORE they walk into their planning meeting. I’ve run these meetings for years – and I know this kind of timing works.

Here are the two golden windows for emailing journalists:

  1. Before the Morning Meeting
     Newsrooms typically hold their first editorial meeting at 9:00 AM, where reporters discuss pitches and plan the day’s coverage. To get your story on their radar, email them between 7 AM and 8:30 AM. This timing ensures your pitch is fresh and top of mind when decisions are being made. Think of it as your chance to plant a seed in the perfect soil.
  2. Before the Afternoon Meeting
     Newsrooms regroup in the early afternoon to plan for the afternoon/evening shift and finalize coverage for the day. That meeting starts usually around 1:00 or 1:30 PM. Sending your email between 11:30 and 12:30 PM gives it a prime spot in their inbox just as they plan their afternoon assignments.

When to Avoid Sending Your Pitch

If you’ve ever sent a pitch on a Friday afternoon and wondered why you didn’t hear back, here’s the likely reason: it got lost.

The best public relations people know that if there’s bad news at your company – release it Friday afternoon. It won’t get as much attention as it would on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday afternoon. I’ve done this while consulting companies. It works. 

By Monday morning, your email is buried under hundreds of weekend messages. Unless your story is breaking news, avoid pitching on Fridays or Saturdays. If it’s urgent, skip email altogether and opt for a text or a direct message on social media instead.

Why Timing Matters More Than You Think

This dynamic isn’t just about logistics—it’s about respect and strategy. 

When you email journalists during their busiest or least productive times, your pitch feels like noise. But when you align with their natural workflow, your message stands out.

Think of it this way: the right pitch at the wrong time is a missed opportunity.

So, ask yourself:

  • Are you timing your emails to align with journalists’ decision-making windows?
  • Are you avoiding the email black hole of Friday afternoons and weekends?
  • Are you targeting the email black hole of Friday afternoon because you’re trying to BURY a bad news story?

By respecting their schedule, you increase the likelihood that your pitch will not only be read but also acted upon.

How to Land Your Story

Pitching journalists isn’t just about crafting the perfect email—it’s about strategy, timing, and understanding their world. When you combine those elements, your chances of getting coverage skyrocket.

At Janicek Performance Group, we bring you the insider secrets and tips I’ve gained from 25 years in TV to help you communicate with impact and position your brand for maximum visibility in the media. Whether it’s preparing your team for media interviews, keynotes, panels, board meetings, or other high-stakes moments, we equip you with the tools and strategies to shine. We’re the community YOU need to achieve your next big goals with confidence and clarity.

The Secret to Getting Your Story in the Media: A Strategy That Works

by

In today’s fast-paced world, media exposure can be a game-changer for your brand. A single interview or media placement can thrust your company into the spotlight, driving significant results.

One business owner we trained before his national TV news interview, saw his product sell out in Target right after the interview!

So, how can you ensure your story catches the attention of journalists?

With so many pitches flooding their inboxes daily, journalists can easily overlook a story that doesn’t stand out. To break through the noise, our strategic approach is essential.

Getting your organization’s story in the news can do more than turn heads—it can transform your business. 

But here’s the catch: landing a media placement isn’t about luck. It’s about strategy.

If you’ve struggled to get journalists to pick up your story—whether on Giving Tuesday or any other day—let’s explore how to fix that.

  1. Don’t Spray and Pray
    Many people make the mistake of blasting their pitch to every journalist they can find, hoping something sticks. Here’s the truth: journalists receive hundreds of pitches weekly. If your pitch isn’t tailored or relevant, it will get lost in the noise.
  2. Treat Journalists Like Humans
    Journalists aren’t robots—they have likes, dislikes, and areas of expertise. Sending a pitch about your organic baby onesies to someone who doesn’t know what a “onesie” is will fall flat.

Instead, think about what makes your story a perfect fit for a particular journalist. For instance, I used to work with Ginger Zee, who’s passionate about climate change and sustainability. If your story is about revolutionizing recycling or finding reused holiday gifts, she’d likely want to hear it.

  1. Do Your Research
    Social media is your friend when it comes to understanding what a journalist cares about. Does their Instagram feed feature rescue pets? They might be interested in your “Why not give bunnies as Easter gifts” campaign. Are they obsessed with skincare? That reporter’s going to love your January story about the latest injectables and micro-needling – that’s your IN.

Why This Strategy Works

When you take the time to target your outreach, you’re showing journalists that you understand their interests and their audience. This not only increases your chances of getting a placement but also helps you build lasting relationships with the media.

So next time you’re preparing a pitch—whether it’s for Giving Tuesday or your next big launch—remember to be intentional. The right approach can change everything.

👋 Janicek Performance Group empowers leaders from the world’s most influential organizations, enhancing their power, presence, magnetism, and confidence. Our clients include corporations like AbbVie, UPS, McDonald’s, and Hard Rock International. We’ve partnered with institutions such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, The New York Blood Centers, and The American Dental Association.

Our communications training and coaching create more awareness, conversions and sales, investor interest and conversations, and ultimately more impact and better outcomes.

Schedule a 1:1 with us to learn more.

The Simple Trick To Achieving Your Goals

by

What does it take to hit your biggest goals? Hard work and focus, sure. But there’s one factor we often overlook: the people we surround ourselves with.

I was in St. Croix recently to cheer on my husband during his open water swim race. It turned out to be an eye-opening reminder of a life lesson we all know but sometimes forget: the people you surround yourself with will profoundly impact your success.

If you’ve ever been in a room full of go-getters—whether it’s at a conference, a team meeting, or even a fitness class—you’ve felt it. The energy shifts. 

You push yourself harder. You accomplish things you didn’t think you could.

It’s no coincidence.

The Inspiration of Others

Ted did an amazing job in the race, taking third place in his male age group—something I couldn’t be prouder of him for! 

As I stood by watching the event – and really all weekend in the resort with the racers – I couldn’t help but notice something. Around me were men and women in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s swimming incredible distances—one, two-point-five, and even five miles. It was clear they weren’t just competing—they were growing. 

They leaned on each other, trained together, and found inspiration in each other’s journeys. The camaraderie, the shared focus, and the encouragement were palpable.

This wasn’t about swimming alone. It was about community.

What stood out wasn’t just their physical strength but the way they showed up for each other. They surrounded themselves with others who shared their goals and pushed each other to perform at their best.

Watching Ted and the other athletes reminded me of a simple truth: success isn’t a solo journey. Whether you’re diving into a swim race or leading a big project, your community matters.

This got me thinking: how can we bring that same energy into our professional lives?

How Community Shapes Success

This dynamic got me thinking about how much faster we achieve our own goals when we intentionally surround ourselves with people who inspire us. Whether it’s in fitness, career, or personal growth, the people in your life play a critical role in shaping your mindset, energy, and success.

Here’s why this works:

  1. Shared Focus: When you’re around others who are working toward the same goal, it’s easier to stay committed. It’s hard to skip a run or a project deadline when everyone around you is making progress.
  2. Built-In Accountability: The right people won’t let you quit when the going gets tough. They’ll remind you of your “why” and help you overcome obstacles.
  3. Inspiration Through Action: Seeing others succeed—especially those who’ve faced similar struggles—makes your goals feel achievable. If they can do it, why not you?
  4. Opportunities to Learn: When surrounded by successful people, you absorb their strategies, mindset, and secrets for success. It’s like shortcutting your journey.

If you’re serious about hitting your personal, professional, or physical goals, it’s time to take a good look at your circle. 

Are the people around you encouraging you to grow? 

Are they pushing you to aim higher? 

Or are they holding you back, even unintentionally?

Make the conscious choice to surround yourself with those who inspire you, challenge you, and walk alongside you on your journey. These are the people who will help you achieve your goals faster and with more joy.

Here’s how you can create an environment that helps you succeed:

  1. Find your community—Connect with people who’ve achieved what you’re working toward or who are striving for the same goals. Their journey can inspire your own.
  2. Learn from the best—Mentors, colleagues, or coaches can help you skip common mistakes and fast-track your success.
  3. Elevate your habits—Match the discipline and mindset of those you admire. Surround yourself with people who remind you of what’s possible.

Your environment shapes your success. We’re all capable of incredible things—especially when we surround ourselves with the right people. The question is: who’s in your corner?

Next time you plan a trip, a project, a company launch, or even a casual coffee date, consider this: who you bring along could make all the difference in your success.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in building high-performing leaders. From commanding a room in a media interview to growing as a leader, we give you the tools and strategies to rise to the next level. Join us—and see how far you can go with the right people by your side.

Managing Media Interview Requests & Building Journalist Relationships

by

Imagine this: it’s Election Day, and news outlets are racing to cover the unfolding stories. Or maybe it’s a day when your industry is in the spotlight, and journalists are reaching out to connect with experts like you. Suddenly, there’s an email in your inbox—a request for an interview. But there’s a problem: your schedule is packed. Do you decline, or is there a way to keep the opportunity on the table?

When journalists seek out experts, it’s a prime moment for you and your organization to gain visibility and share insights. This is free PR—essentially free advertising for your expertise and your organization’s mission. But to seize this opportunity, you need to approach scheduling conflicts strategically.

Step 1: Don’t Ignore the Request

When you receive an interview request at a busy time, it might be tempting to delay your response or even ignore the message entirely. However, not replying is one of the fastest ways to miss out on current and future opportunities. Instead, acknowledge the request, even if you’re uncertain you can make the suggested time.

Step 2: Respond with Gratitude and Flexibility

If you truly can’t make the scheduled time, show your appreciation for the opportunity and express interest in accommodating the interview. Here’s an example of how to respond:

“Thank you so much for reaching out! I’d love to contribute, but I have a prior commitment at that time. I’m available [suggest alternate dates/times]. I hope one of these options works; if not, I’m happy to explore other ways I can be of assistance.”

This approach shows respect for the journalist’s timeline and signals that you’re eager to collaborate despite scheduling conflicts. Offering alternate times and expressing interest in future opportunities strengthens your rapport with the journalist.

Step 3: Be Prepared with a Backup Expert or Resource

If rescheduling isn’t an option, consider offering another credible source within your organization. Journalists appreciate when you suggest another qualified individual who can add value to their story.

“Unfortunately, I’m unavailable at that time, but I’d like to connect you with [name and title of colleague], who has similar insights on this topic.”

This provides the journalist with an alternative and showcases your commitment to contributing to the story.

Step 4: Keep Your Communication Timely and Clear

Respond to the journalist’s initial email as quickly as possible. Your prompt response indicates professionalism and reliability, essential qualities for being considered in future stories. 

Step 5: Continue Building Relationships for Future Opportunities

Even if you can’t make the interview, showing responsiveness and a willingness to help in some capacity goes a long way. Building relationships with journalists can lead to more media opportunities and help position you as a trusted resource in your field.

Don’t Let Scheduling Conflicts Hold You Back

Media interviews provide free, impactful exposure, helping you build credibility and visibility for your organization. By handling scheduling conflicts with professionalism and offering alternate solutions, you not only increase the likelihood of media coverage today but also position yourself as a reliable expert that journalists want to turn to in the future.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in preparing executives for media interviews, equipping you with the tools to make the most of every opportunity—even during busy times. Don’t miss out on building valuable connections and showcasing your expertise—start today by being prepared for the next request that comes your way!

Follow our founder on Instagram