Susan Howe
A strategist and operational expert, her leadership brings dynamic teams together for innovative client engagements and workplace initiatives.
Collaboration starts with the fundamental values we live at Weber Shandwick. It means bringing together diverse perspectives and talents to build the best solution for our clients.
Question and Answer
How long have you worked at Weber Shandwick?
I'm coming up on 22 years in July. A lot has changed. But the energy (and my phone number!) remain the same as 1996.
Outside of the office, you're a certified yoga instructor. What has yoga taught you that transfers to the office?
So many things! They say in yoga if you are practicing and your relationships aren't getting better, it's not working. So I try to follow the principles of self study (to learn from successes and mistakes) and self care (to make choices true to yourself.)
In five words or less, how would you describe your Weber Shandwick colleagues.
Curious. Collaborative. Spirited.
Best restaurant/favorite meal in Chicago?
Chilam Balam is my go to. I’m the "mayor" of East Lakeview (my neighborhood) and know the staff and owners well. My husband Willie and I go nearly every week. Amazing small plate Mexican tapas. The menu changes every month.
What's something surprising people might not know about you?
I'm a scuba diver.
You're a big proponent of the "power pose" at work. Explain what that is and what does it accomplish?
Just sit up straight at your desk right now. Stand up and raise your arms overhead. Feel that? I know you do. There is a fascinating Ted Talk about how body posture gives you confidence. So for every big meeting, pitch, gathering I practice victory pose, star pose and my personal favorite, Wonder Woman.
As a diehard Cubs fan, explain the feeling you had when they won the World Series.
Honestly, it was one of the best days of my life. My husband Willie and I have been season ticket holders for years and estimated we've attended 500 games in the Wrigley upper deck. The game itself is a blur. It was unreal. The highs, the lows, the rain delay. And then we won. It was a moment of pure joy.
What's the coolest (or weirdest) place a project has taken you?
Last year I visited the amazing team in Seoul. I was blown away by the work, the energy, the city.
Your title is Chief Collaboration Officer. What are the keys to getting people to bring out the best in each other?
Collaboration starts with the fundamental values we live at Weber Shandwick. A deep respect for each other and a culture of help. But it also means bringing together diverse perspectives and talents to build the best solution for our team and clients.
