Monica Haslip
Founder and Executive Director
Little Black Pearl
Please describe your role as CEO.
I am the founder and executive director of Little Black Pearl. In my role I believe it’s important to have a clear vision and inspiring leadership. I devote a lot of my time to building internal and external relationships the encourage people to work on behalf of the organization and the community we serve. LBP is a very unique organization that offers a variety artistic and cultural goods and services to Chicago. In my role I am an ambassador, role model and advocate.
What is the mission of your organization?
The mission of Little Black Pearl is to create an avenue for exposure to art and culture while teaching the profitable connection between art, education and business.
How do you approach business challenges?
My approach to business challenges is to address the issue head on. I have found that I am most effective when I approach challenges with thoughtful clarity, recognizing that I have to be open to the idea that the solution might not come easily or quickly. I am the most focused and determined when I am faced with a challenge. I realize that have had some of my greatest successes and rewards when I have remained determined and diligent through the most difficult business challenges.
How do you evaluate talent you are hiring and what are the skills that you are looking for in this marketplace?
Evaluating talent is a very critical component of any successful business. I believe that people should have a clear passion for their area of interest. I look for creative, self-motivated and well-rounded talent. It’s important in my field to attract people who are willing to learn new things and continuously develop skills in an effort to keep the organization relevant and fresh.
What are the top three benefits to being a member of your organization?
The top three benefits of LBP membership include: An authentic relationship with an organization that is committed to empowerment, access to unique events featuring nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, and community service and volunteer opportunities.
How do you utilize technology to give yourself business advantages?
We have a very active website (www.blackpearl.org), utilize social media such as: Facebook, twitter and Instagram to promote events and the organization. We launched a text messaging campaign for our 20th Anniversary Celebration 20/20 (text Pearl to 20222 and make a $10 donation).
What technological advances have you used to communicate with your membership?
Facebook, Twitter, email and Instagram
What are three most important business organizational processes and documents used to become a member?
Membership can be purchased online via LBP’s website www.blackpearl.org or by phone at (773) 285-1211.
What are the two key factors for business success?
The two key factors for business success are developing a diverse portfolio of revenue streams and remaining relevant.
Name your three favorite business books for insight and inspiration.
Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson
Steve Jobs by Walter Issacson
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Ruben
If you were giving a speech about skill sets needed in the future to remain relevant to 500 workers at a retraining seminar, what would the of title of your speech be?
“Art Making Change”
Describe your leadership style.
Visionary and democratic
