David Solomon
President & CEO
Viamedia
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-solomon-a648b116
What are three attributes that got you where you are now?
Transparency: Maintaining clear and open communication channels simplifies processes and cultivates trust. This transparency is the cornerstone of my approach, facilitating efficient decision-making and fostering a culture of honesty. Remember that life is short, so get to the point and be deliberate.
Consistency: A steady, predictable leadership approach has been key in building a resilient team dynamic. This consistency in behavior ensures that my team knows what to expect, instilling a sense of stability and trust within the organization.
Influence: Leading with influence means fostering a collaborative environment where every voice is heard and valued. This approach has not only enriched our strategies but has also empowered my team, driving innovation from within. Good leaders get people to do things, and great leaders get them to do it willingly!
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to enter the market?
Adopt a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation. View each role or task as a unique opportunity to grow, even when faced with challenges. Embrace the unknown, learn from missteps, and never lose sight of the lessons ingrained in every experience. This resilient outlook will not only accelerate your professional growth but also enrich your journey through the market’s ever-evolving landscape. As I mentioned earlier, Life is short, so no matter what situation you are in look for the silver lining and embrace the learning that comes from hardships and difficult situations.
Pre-workday, what is your morning ritual?
Establishing a morning routine has been instrumental in setting a positive tone for the day. Each day, my alarm rings at 4:30 a.m. Within moments, I’m up and moving, making a beeline for my go-to morning pick-me-up: a warm cup of pumpkin spice coffee. I appreciate the tranquility of the early hours, relishing the quiet before the world wakes up—it’s undeniably my favorite part of the day. By 5:30 a.m., I’m breaking a sweat with my workout routine, ensuring my mind and body are alert. At 6:30 a.m., I dive into my inbox and respond to early messages. This regimen sharpens mental clarity and primes the body for the day’s endeavors. By engaging with the day ahead proactively and mindfully, I find myself better equipped to navigate the myriad responsibilities that accompany my role head-on by 7:30 a.m.
What about your job keeps you up at night?
Three main priorities are at the heart of my job: my team, customers, and partners. The aspiration to continually meet and exceed their expectations often keeps me in a state of reflection. While this responsibility is substantial, it fuels my drive to ensure that we consistently advance in a manner that benefits all stakeholders.
In an industry brimming with information, what isn’t talked about enough?
While our industry is increasingly globalized, flooded with international headlines and prominent national advertisers, we sometimes risk sidelining the essence of ‘local.’ The vitality and richness of local news, the heartbeat of our close-knit communities, the resilience of our local merchants, the dedication of community leaders and local politicians, and the authentic touch of local advertising often take a back seat. The nuances, stories, and lessons that emerge from our local communities provide invaluable insights and foster genuine connections. It’s not just about recognizing the role of local; it’s about actively prioritizing and championing it. As the media landscape broadens, elevating and integrating these local narratives is crucial for cultivating a more inclusive and insightful discourse.
