One way we’re celebrating Black History Month is by highlighting members of the Black community and their career stories at Enterprise throughout the month of February. Jodiann took some time to talk with us about what Black History Month means to her and reflect on her experience and career growth at Enterprise.
Jodiann H. began her Enterprise career 16 years ago as a Management Trainee in South Florida. She worked her way up in the company, and with persistence and commitment came a promotion to Area Manager.
Jodiann’s confidence and expanding knowledge led her to make what she names as one of the best decisions of her career: she raised her hand to be considered for an Area Manager position at the Ft. Lauderdale airport operation. That role provided her with a wealth of knowledge, and her drive for further growth led her to a promotion to her current role as the Regional Rental Manager in New York. Today her territory spans across Putnam, Westchester, The Bronx Counties and Southern Connecticut.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is especially meaningful for me this year. It is a dedicated time of reflection on all the accomplishments that the Black community has contributed to society, big and small. It is a celebration of our power and our individual uniqueness.
Is there a Black leader, past or present, who inspires you?
There are many Black leaders who inspire me. Most recently, at the top of my list is Michelle Obama because of her poise and grace. Despite her calm demeanor she has a strong presence and she’s also relatable. She does not lose focus of her mission and, most importantly, who she is – regardless of the negative noise around her.
I’m also a fan of Beyoncé. Apart from loving her music, she has used her skillset and platform to champion for change and equality as she empowers our Black women. Both of these women remind me that, “Yes, I can!”
What keeps you at Enterprise?
When I first started with Enterprise, I was intrigued by the opportunity to create my own path based on my performance. One of our founding values is, “We work hard and reward hard work.” At this stage in my career, I’m still motivated by that.
Additionally, Enterprise gives its employees the necessary tools to develop leadership skills. I’m able to continually develop these skills, which I have found to be particularly advantageous in coaching my team. As a result, I realized that I genuinely enjoy coaching and helping others in their career development. My most cherished moments are celebrating the career and personal milestones of my team members.
What has surprised you most about working at Enterprise?
There is a level playing field for everyone at Enterprise. I recall when Pam Nicholson became the CEO of the company and my first thought was that Pam was not related to the Taylor family. This signified to me that Enterprise will make decisions based on what is best for the company, their employees, and business partners.
This sparked my second thought: “OMG, we have a female CEO! That could be me one day!”
Is there an Enterprise Holdings program that has impacted you, or that you find motivating/encouraging?
There are several. The Diversity Leadership Forum held at the Enterprise Holdings World Headquarters in St. Louis is one such program. It was inspiring to me to see and hear from people who look like me, and it was refreshing to witness each presenter share their career highs and lows. Their stories reiterate that through hard work, consistent performance and resiliency, the dream is possible.
Being able to participate in change and give back to the company through the North American Diversity Team has been another impactful experience for me. I had the honor of being a change agent within the company at a higher level than in my own region. This platform is proof that Enterprise stands by one of its founding values: great things happen when we listen to each other.
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
I have received so many great pieces of advice throughout my career. The two that I live by daily are: focus on the solution and not the challenge, and be excellent at the things that are within my control. As Aristotle said, “we are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, in not an act, but a habit.”
I understand that challenges will always arise; however, what defines me is my response – which needs to be solution-oriented. Most importantly, I must be diligent and excellent in my execution of the steps that will help me overcome challenges.
Have you had/do you currently have a mentor?
Mentorship has played a vital role in my career. I have received so much good advice from my mentors. One of the most unique things about our company is that, because of our promote-from-within culture, we all share similar experiences. My mentors have been able to coach and challenge me based on a common understanding of the business, operations and career paths. I would not be where I am today had it not been for the mentorship of what I call my board of directors.
