In various capacities of business, we find opportunities to create, lead, serve, and contribute to a cause greater than ourselves. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints measure professional success in metrics beyond financial achievement or organizational growth. Principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ—including integrity, diligence, humility, hard work, and service—can guide us in conducting business and interacting with colleagues, employees, coworkers, and customers. Careers in business therefore become opportunities to develop character while using divine talents to bless others.
These speakers explore business from a variety of perspectives, giving particular attention to leadership and qualities that contribute to meaningful success. Allison Davis-Blake identifies important principles for building a positive career: empathy, courage, integrity, and drive. Liz Wiseman encourages leaders to recognize their own gaps in understanding and remain open to learning through collaboration. These addresses explore how effective business leadership requires competence and commitment both within and beyond the workplace.
Through these speeches, we are invited to ponder what kind of influence we hope to have in our own careers and life roles. Different eras, experiences, and fields present unique opportunities along with specific challenges. But consistent application of character, leadership, humility, perseverance, and service bring us to positive outcomes and a closer relationship with Christ. Whether you are early in your career or nearing retirement, an intern or a CEO, these addresses provide advice on navigating all stages of professional life. By approaching business as an opportunity to develop our own abilities and serve others, we find greater meaning in the work and can use our professional influence for good.
I think we need to recognize that we tend to do our best work when we are on the outer edges of what we know, when we are doing something hard and new, and when we are growing through challenge.