Some takeaways from the Mainebiz CEO Forum in Bangor
Photo / Alexis Wells
Deb Neuman, president and CEO of the Bangor Regional Chamber of Commerce, left, was joined at the Mainebiz Bangor breakfast forum by Lon Cardon, Julie Dawson Williams, Sam Hight, Joe Kellner, Heather Paquette and Jose Saavedra.
Six Maine business and nonprofit leaders at a Mainebiz forum on Wednesday shared lessons they've learned in their professional lives — from tips on communication and attitude to avoiding saying no.
The event featured a panel discussion on "60 ideas in 60 minutes," moderated by Deb Neuman, president and CEO of the Bangor Regional Chamber of Commerce.
In her introductory remarks, Neuman said she guaranteed that attendees would have fun and learn a lot.
This year's group represented various industries — family-owned businesses, health care, real estate, nonprofits and aviation. The panelists each shared 10 ideas on how to succeed in business and life.
Around 140 people attended the morning event, which took place at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bangor. Here are some highlights from the conversation.
'Know your weaknesses and lean into them'
Sam Hight, the president and dealer principal at Skowhegan-based Hight Family Dealerships, advised leaders not to ask someone to do something you wouldn't do yourself.
"I will go out there and clean a car if I have to," said Hight.
Hight also said that his attitude and how he is feeling will set the tone for his staff for the day. He says to be mindful and be the best version of yourself daily, but also give yourself some slack.
When asked about the future and passing the torch, Hight said that he wants to create a community and a business that makes his daughter want to stay and pursue the business. He said that while he is not pressuring her — she's only 6 years old — he wants her to have options.
Hight is actively involved in the Skowhegan community, where he is from. He was also named to the 2023 Mainebiz 40 Under 40.
'Attitude matters'
"Attitude has a lot of influence in the office," said Julie Dawson Williams, CEO and broker-owner of Bangor-based Dawson Inc.
Dawson Williams also said that you can have a range of feelings, but also need to be able to move on.
"How we approach our feelings is really important and how we respond to challenges is really important," said Dawson Williams.
'Spend time with people that challenge you'
Surround yourself with important people, said Joe Kellner, CEO of LifeFlight of Maine and a 2023 Mainebiz 40 Under 40. He says that he surrounds himself around people who are smarter than him. Doing so can be uncomfortable, but the growth potential is enormous.
Kellner also said that leaders should avoid saying no.
"Try to find solutions to the challenges your staff members face daily," said Kellner. "If you can't find a solution, don't say, 'Well, we can't fix that. Say we can't do this, but we can do that instead."
'Be brave'
Lon Cardon, president and CEO of the Bar Harbor-based Jackson Laboratory, said charge ahead.
"Be brave and don't be afraid. You should take risks because it allows you to grow and push yourself out of your comfort zone," he said.
He urged leaders to "build on your strengths." He suggested hiring people "who complement your weaknesses."
'Kindness'
"Treat everyone with kindness. Always choose kindness when working with someone or another company, and treat everyone kindly no matter their role," said Heather Paquette, the president of Auburn-based Good Shepherd Food Bank.
Paquette also urged patience. "When something isn't going right, take a break and figure out why," she said.
She says she is always planning for what will happen next. The food bank is delivering over 40 million meals, and food insecurity is rising. She said the organization is working on scenario planning and having a plan for the unexpected.
'Connect the dots'
"It's the little things that help you connect and help people to see the bigger picture," said Jose Saavedra, director of the Bangor International Airport.
Saavedra, in his 10 tips, urged leaders to "empower your staff, give them the tools and resources they need to succeed."
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