Revisiting Who I Am

Who I am and why I exist? There's no simple answer...and it's always changing...thank goodness

I started element c in 2015, after having been an HR leader in multiple industries for 25 years and having my own career “a-ha”.  I realized that I wanted to make more impact on the lives of leaders (and we’re all leaders!).  And, I wanted to do that with people who desired to make a bigger impact as well.  

Out of that desire came the name of my business–element c.  C in the periodic table represents Carbon, which is the basis of all life.  (“C” is also how you pronounce my last name, Seay). I help people examine the elements of both their professional and personal selves, so that they can live life more fulfilled and with more impact.

Having been in DFW for my entire career since graduating from the University of North Texas and then Southern Methodist University with my MBA, I have been intentional about developing and maintaining a wide network of colleagues.  I’m grateful for every job–both paid and volunteer–that has allowed me to meet interesting, smart people with whom I enjoy staying in touch.

I have my network to thank for the growth of my business over the last eight years.  During that time, I have coached former colleagues, children of former bosses and even some friends and family members.  I’ve provided HR consulting services to neighbors who have their own businesses, people I’ve met through my kids’ schools and even someone I met 25 years ago when we both had a side hustle at what was Valley View Mall in Dallas (some of you will remember).  Turns out that side hustle was not her only gig and she asked me to support her team at a commercial real estate company, which I’ve been doing for the last seven years.  

Yes, I keep up with people…..for a long time!  And, I do it because I enjoy people, their stories and the magic that comes collaborating. I don’t expect any business from the connections I have but if I can serve people in some way, I want to.

My approach is personal, getting to know the needs of the client and proposing a solution that will help them meet those needs.  I don’t offer off the shelf programs meant for any business.  You will know, when I work with you, that I listened and that I genuinely want the same things for you that you want.

I work with individuals to understand their career aspirations and frustrations , create a coaching plan designed to help them meet their goals (and I help them figure out their goals, if they’re not quite sure,if they’re simply stuck but don’t know what they want!).  I also partner with organizations and their leaders to understand their business challenges and how people can be better equipped and supported to meet those challenges.  

I am fortunate to do what I do, and I deeply value anyone who puts their trust in me.  In exchange, I’m committed to understanding their goals and regularly checking in through our engagement to ensure we’re meeting them.  And, if we’re not, we pivot and take a different approach.  

I’m committed to my own growth and development.  Every year, I engage in some kind of training or certification program that helps me become a better coach and leader for my clients.  I also maintain a membership with Dallas HR as well as my Senior Professional in HR certification.  Why?  It’s good for me and it’s good for my clients.