Insights from Our CEO Jennifer Brennan’s Talk at DCU

Our CEO, Jennifer Brennan, founder of Thrive Marketing, recently delivered an inspiring talk at Dublin City University (DCU). She shared her entrepreneurial journey, offering valuable insights into managing people, building a business, and the power of networking. Her talk left a lasting impression on the students, encouraging them to take charge of their careers. Here are some of the key takeaways, as captured by final-year business student Connor Eccles.

1. **The Importance of Talent: People Come First**

Jennifer emphasised that talent is the cornerstone of any successful organisation. “People are your number one asset,” she said, highlighting how attitude and emotional intelligence shape the workplace.

 She encouraged future leaders to understand what motivates their teams and to manage with empathy. By fostering strong relationships, leaders can create an environment where talent thrives.

 Key Quote:

“Life is easy; people make it complicated.”

2. **Follow Your Passion: Why Start a Business?**

Jennifer’s entrepreneurial journey offers an important lesson: don’t let others’ opinions hold you back. While it’s often said to “stay and gain experience,” Jennifer urged students to trust their instincts and take bold steps towards their goals.

 Many will offer advice or opinions, but the key is to listen to your gut and believe in your vision. If you’re passionate about something, go for it.

 Key Quote:

“I’m just going to do this, and it’s going to work.”

 3. **Prioritisation and Decision-Making**

Success often depends on knowing what to tackle first. Jennifer shared her approach to prioritising tasks: ask yourself, “What do I need to do now?” versus “What can wait?”

 This focus helps to avoid burnout while ensuring critical goals are met on time. Entrepreneurs must consistently evaluate and adapt their priorities to maintain momentum.

 4. **Scaling and Impact**

As businesses grow, leaders face a crucial decision: “Will I coast along the way I am, or will I grow?” Jennifer challenged students to think about the broader impact they want to have.

 She emphasised the importance of using one’s skills to positively influence others, whether through voluntary efforts or professional contributions. A successful entrepreneur doesn’t just grow their business—they enrich the community around them.

5. **Networking and Mentorship: The Keys to Growth**

Jennifer highlighted the immense value of networking. She encouraged students to set goals for expanding their professional circles and to be open to diverse mentors, even those outside their chosen field.

“In the main, people want to help 90% of the time,” she said, dispelling the fear of reaching out. The right connections can open doors, provide guidance, and inspire new ideas.

 Key Tip:

“Don’t dress for the job you have; dress for the job you want.” This philosophy extends beyond clothing—it’s about presenting yourself with confidence and ambition when meeting potential mentors or collaborators.

6. **Jennifer’s Challenge to Students**

Jennifer’s story with Thrive Marketing is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. She urged students to find what they’re passionate about and pursue it relentlessly. Entrepreneurship is not without its challenges, but the rewards of following your passion outweigh the risks.

 Reflections from Connor Eccles

Conor Eccles, a final-year business student who attended Jennifer’s talk, shared his perspective on her insights:

- Jennifer’s emphasis on understanding people and building strong relationships resonated deeply.

- Her advice to ignore naysayers and trust your gut stood out as a powerful reminder to stay true to oneself.

- The importance of diverse networking and seeking mentors outside your field added a fresh perspective.

You can connect with Conor on LinkedIn [here]

(https://www.linkedin.com/in/connoreccles/) and explore Jennifer Brennan’s related posts [here](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jennifer-brennan-1772254_dcualumni-dcubusiness-futureentrepreneurs-ac...) and [here](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jennifer-brennan-1772254_dcu-ned-business-activity-726030634024844902...).

Final Thoughts

Jennifer Brennan’s journey and insights remind us that entrepreneurship is as much about people as it is about products or services. By focusing on talent, trusting your instincts, and building meaningful connections, anyone can create a thriving business and a fulfilling career. Her talk at DCU left a powerful impression, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs to take charge of their futures.

 Are you ready to take the leap and pursue your passion? Start today by setting clear goals, prioritising your efforts, and connecting with people who can help you along the way.