With an exceptional speaker rating of 4.87 out of 5, Jill Christensen has become one of the most sought-after voices in employee engagement worldwide. A best-selling author and global keynote speaker, she has been recognized among the Top 200 Global Thought Leaders to Watch and Top 101 Global Influencers in Employee Engagement. Over the past seven years, she has empowered more than 500,000 professionals across 40 U.S. states and 10 countries with her proven framework for re-engaging employees.
Her book If Not You, Who? How to Crack the Code of Employee Disengagement is an international bestseller, and her weekly blog has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Corporate Blogs, alongside industry leaders like Apple and Microsoft. Known for her passion, insight, and energy, Jill consistently earns glowing feedback from audiences: “Brilliant,” “The Best Speaker I’ve Ever Heard,” and “Simply Outstanding” are just a few of the accolades she receives.
CEO Affairs Interview with Jill Christensen
Q: Who are you, inside and outside of work?
I’m consistent in all areas of my life—what you see is what you get. I’m driven, passionate, energetic, and grounded in strong personal values. Personality assessments have shown me to be the same person both professionally and personally, which is rare. I don’t switch personas based on the environment—I bring my authentic self to every situation.
Q: Can you share your background before launching your own company?
I grew up moving every few years, as my father worked for IBM. That early exposure to change shaped my adaptability. After college, I set my sights on corporate America, working in the telecommunications industry for 22 years. I climbed the ranks to lead global internal communications before deciding it was time for a different path.
Q: How did your company come into being?
While working in large corporations, I quickly realized that culture was often overlooked during job selection. Many companies offered great benefits, but also had dysfunction that impacted daily life. I knew I couldn’t stay disengaged and unfulfilled, so in 2009, I launched my own company focused on helping organizations build cultures that inspire and retain employees.
Q: What do you believe has contributed most to your success?
My values have been my compass: hard work, integrity, direct communication, and follow-through. I don’t look for external validation—I know what I bring to the table. My focus on execution, honesty, and staying true to myself has been key to achieving my goals.
Q: What services does your company provide, and what sets you apart?
I author books, deliver keynote speeches, and consult with organizations globally on employee engagement. What sets me apart is my commitment to truth and action. I don’t just educate audiences—I inspire them to make changes that create measurable impact. My goal is for attendees to leave with clarity, energy, and a plan to improve their workplace.
Q: What principles do you believe are essential for building company culture?
Culture starts at the top. Leaders must model the values they want employees to embody. Managers, too, play a pivotal role—they set the tone for behavior, communication, and expectations. The best cultures are built by listening to employees’ needs and delivering on them consistently.
Q: How important is innovation to success?
Innovation is essential. Companies that fail to adapt will inevitably fall behind. Introducing new ideas and approaches keeps organizations competitive, relevant, and capable of meeting future challenges head-on.
Q: Do you think organizations rely more on individuals or team processes?
Too many organizations rely on high performers to carry the load, which creates risk. The most effective companies focus on strong team processes, ensuring accountability is shared across the organization. Long-term success is built on collaboration, not individual heroics.
Q: What are your responsibilities as Founder and CEO, and what brings you joy in your daily work?
Most of my time is spent on lead generation—securing keynote opportunities at conferences around the world. The highlight of my day is simple: enjoying a great meal. I’m a foodie at heart, and I find joy in experiencing different cuisines.
Q: What advice would you give to first-time leaders?
Invest in leadership training. Many managers lack the skills needed to inspire and engage employees, which contributes to low global engagement rates. Treat your team with respect, show genuine care, and create an environment where they feel valued. People will give their all for leaders who make them feel supported and appreciated.
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