We had the good fortune of connecting with Lisa Zeeveld and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lisa, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success has been my commitment creating and achieving goals. Now that may sound simple, but the majority of people (#1) don’t create goals, (#2) don’t work on completing them, and (#3) don’t actually believe that success is part of their future. Lack of intentionality and commitment derails most people into leading a mediocre life. I have been relentless in pursuing my dreams and passions. I’ve used my past adversities and experiences as fuel to propel me. I’m an avid reader and lifelong learner. As someone without the traditional credentials that others have to determine success, I have had to make my way with hard work, humility, and grace. One of my favorite quotes is “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard,” Tim Notke, a high school basketball coach. I think that gives hope! We can all work hard.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am currently the COO and CFO of one of the largest remote staffing organization in the United States. What I am most proud of is that at the beginning of my career no one would have guessed that I would be in that seat today. I grew up in a low income neighborhood of mobile homes. I wasn’t afforded the best education and I don’t have a college degree. I was married at 19 years old. I have spent the last 26 years of my career being self-taught and driven. I show up early, deliver more than what is asked of me and I dress the part. I am committed to the vision of my employer and I am driven to succeed. In my recent TEDx Talk, I recount my experiences and detail how self-efficacy was the key to overcoming the adversities that should have prevented me from becoming anything but great.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta has so much to offer! FRIDAY: Catch an Atlanta Hawks game Grab late night bites and drinks at Park Bar Finish the evening with a ride on SkyView SATURDAY: Eat Brunch at Cafe Intermezzo Visit the High Museum of Art Followed by shopping at Phipp’s Plaza Drinks at F&B Dinner at Little Alley SUNDAY: Head to Piedmont Park Lunch at The Nook If they were in town longer, I’d recommend: -tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium -attending an Atlanta Braves game with pizza from Antico -a day touring the Coca-Cola museum, the Aquarium and Civil Rights Museum with lunch from The Varsity -Visit Ponce City Market and play mini-golf on the rooftop -Visit Avalon and eat at Superica
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I know there have been many people that have been part of my success journey. Most importantly, God. Next would be the love and encouragement from my parents. Lastly, a recruiter (whose name I no longer remember) who looked at my resume more than 26 years ago and told me that I could be more than a cashier at Wal-mart.
Website: www.lisazeeveld.com
Instagram: @LisaZeeveld
Linkedin: @LisaZeeveld
Twitter: @LisaZeeveld
Other: www.belaysolutions.com