There’s always something out of the ordinary about a leader, something that we want to learn about his or her unique point of view. We’re especially curious about those leaders who have direct input into our own lives. The upcoming Profiles in Leadership will focus on some of the incoming directors on the ILTA Board. We profiled Michele Gossmeyer, the incoming Peer Group Liaison, as our very first leader. Now, we’re profiling Steven Skidmore, who is the current New York Regional Vice President, the incoming Board of Directors Regional Vice President Liaison and the IT Director at Martin Clearwater & Bell LLP. Steven is a thoughtful, goal-driven leader who has brought a lot of value to ILTA through his guidance at national conferences and in the New York region. He will undoubtedly excel as RVP Liaison on the Board as well.
What excites you the most about ILTA ‘09?
“Optimizing value” is what excites me most about this year’s conference. It’s about coming together and learning the technology landscape well enough to recognize where and how to optimize value. Purchasing the technology is the small piece of the puzzle — it’s knowing what to do with the technology that is the big piece — and I know ILTA ‘09 is going to ensure we all walk away with the big piece.
Describe a highlight of one ILTA conference that made you a hero when you got back to your firm.
For me it’s been more about the little take-aways that I leave with at the end of every conference that have enabled my team back at the office to grow. It’s making the connections with the vendors and members that’s worked best for me.
Conference is a whirlwind of activity; can you share your strategy or any tips to making it through and getting the most out of it?
The trick is to plan what you want to accomplish before arriving at conference and trying to stay as close to those objectives as you can, because it’s very easy to get moved off course.
What volunteer roles have you held for ILTA?
I was on the Conference Committee, 2002-04; the Conference Co-chair, 2005-06; and I was the New York Regional Vice President, 2008-09.
What prompted you to get involved as a volunteer leader with ILTA? What led you in the direction of the Board of Directors?
Learning so much from ILTA had prompted me to share and give back skills in the hope others could benefit the same way I continue to do. Being inspired by past and current board members has led me to take my volunteerism to the highest level.
What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership is about wanting to make a difference. It’s about giving and not getting. It’s about inspiring and not controlling others to accomplish objectives and goals.
What makes you a leader?
I’m a leader because I’m a good listener and communicator. I am not afraid of stepping up and making decisions. I try not to lose sight of goals and missions, and I try to act responsibly by setting good examples.
How has ILTA helped you become the leader you are today?
It’s all about the people who make up this great organization that have inspired me to become the leader I am today.
Filed under: 2009 Conference
