Making decisions is a core responsibility for leaders. Good decisions start with good information. And good information requires good data.
Today’s guest, Sarah Abel, is the Chief Operating Officer for TR Data Strategy, which helps bring growth and measured value to clients ranging in size from startups to the nation’s largest retailers.
On this episode of The Clarity Advisors Show, Sarah and host Ken Trupke discuss how data – combined with insights and execution – can transform all aspects of an organization.
Timestamps
(00:58): TR Data Strategy’s typical clients
(03:11): Collecting and presenting data to entrepreneurs
(04:47): The value of cold calls and surveys
(06:11): Gathering and synthesizing data
(08:24): Different types of roles on TR Data Strategy’s team
(10:09): Using Artificial Intelligence
(12:13): Sarah’s marketing background
(16:42): The makeup of TR Data Strategy’s team
(17:22): Lessons learned in the transition from individual contributor to leadership role
(21:50): How teams have changed in recent years
(24:11): Recommended listening and reading
(25:50): Connecting with Sarah
Episode Quotes
“What we really love to do is solve problems and we love to do that with a data lens.”
“We can never get to the table soon enough, especially when it comes to an entrepreneur with an idea.”
“Ten years ago, the way that we would present data information was drastically different than what folks are looking for today. We want more visualization; we want more immediate action steps.”
“You want someone double checking that work and making sure anything that’s related to AI still has that human element.”
“This probably isn’t a popular opinion, but I believe on an organizational chart, the chief marketing officer should be above the CEO because marketing truly feeds into everything.”
“I think the most important part of a leadership role is that you help shape people’s lives in ways that are far beyond the nine to five.”
“Generational dynamics is something I study because I’m so fascinated by what a group’s formative years can do to help them approach life.”
“This newest generation really wants to be a part of something that matters, and they’re willing to sacrifice – in ways that I haven’t seen before – money or opportunity to be a part of something they really care about.”
Recommended Listening and Reading
- The Answers are in the Room podcast with Barbara Rapaport
- Traction by Gino Wickman
Connect with Sarah Abel
