The past 12 years at the Hartford Business Journal have been the most rewarding of my entire career. As I reflect on the time, a kaleidoscope of memories come swirling back: the opening of the Connecticut Convention Center; the breathtaking evolution of communication patterns from fax to dial up to high-speed internet and smartphones; the rise in the number of women in executive positions in our marketplace; the success of our UConn Huskies; having the governor at HBJ events; accepting editorial awards at our national conference; the redesign of the newspaper and the website, and so much more.
I have learned so much and been touched by our community. My time at HBJ has taught me:
The benefit of a deadline driven business: At HBJ there is no choice — the paper and now the daily emails have to get out. The community is waiting. The discipline of that weekly, now daily deadline creates a healthy urgency, a need for process to get work done and boldness to trust the team to make the right decision.
To be inspired by others: Each day we talk to business owners who lead and manage businesses large and small. The nimbleness, courage, and creativity of this business community are inspiring.
To step back and look at business from 30,000 feet: Joe Zwiebel, HBJ’s founder, has taught me the importance of stepping back and looking at the big picture before, during, and after making key decisions.
The importance of innovation: I’ve been blessed to be part of the HBJ team — a team that thrives on innovation, always wants to try something new to make products better, and is never content or rests on their laurels.
The value of one person plus one person equals four or five or six: I’ve been amazed by our business community and how people (in the economic downturn of 2008 especially) come together to help each other in collaborative ways. HBJ is often the convener of these partnerships, showing people new ways to work together each day as we deliver news and information.
The numbers are important, but it’s all about the people: This is another lesson from Joe Zwiebel. Early in my career here I focused on the numbers and the products. Early on and again and again, Joe has taught me to put the people first — our team, our readers, our clients.
I’m looking forward to my continued connection with HBJ as I lead the launch of the new Executive Advisory Board. This is just another way that HBJ will bring the community together to impact the growth of communication and collaboration in our region.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have taught me and for all each of you do each day to make our business community stronger and better. See you out and about!Â
Gail Lebert spent 12 years at HBJ, including seven years as publisher. Her last day as publisher was Aug. 29.