“Having a clear vision, communicating in ways that build pride and energy, and helping people see opportunity, think differently and solve problems in new ways.” —Julie Friedly
Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?
Honoring achievement is important because it makes performance and progress visible, reinforces the behaviors we want repeated and strengthens connection across teams, clients and the community, especially when work is complex or change is constant. It also provides a baseline for continued growth and improvement.
For me, highlighting success, and even small wins along the way, can go a long way with team members and those who are looking to grow in their careers. Recognition helps people understand that their contributions matter and gives them examples of what progress can look like.
For the broader business community, it builds a culture of appreciation that helps showcase value, supports collaboration and shows others what is possible for their own individual success.
It also creates better connections and relationships throughout the community as we highlight the great deeds of others, giving people opportunities to learn from one another.
What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?
Change is inevitable, and the best way to address it is to accept it before you no longer have a choice. I have learned that being open to learning from others and knowing that you should always be looking for ways to grow in your profession and business is the only way to continue to achieve success.
In the early part of my career, I learned this the hard way. Not accepting change means it happens without you. Accepting it and learning to use it creatively to benefit you means you are more likely to have a seat at the table, be looked at as an expert in your field and have an important voice for the future, both professionally and personally.
Being willing to adapt creates opportunities to learn. That openness has helped me take on new challenges and better understand how I can contribute as a leader.
What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
I believe highlighting the Importance of education and life skills, including communication, financial management and conflict resolution, is imperative for the younger generations and women in Arizona.
The ability to build relationships, communicate effectively and resolve conflict directly and in person is something I see lacking in my field and others, and highlighting these as important character skills is imperative regardless of what field you are in.
I truly believe that the best way to do this is by providing mentors and coaches for the younger generation, as we can guide them in these areas and demonstrate the importance they bring when it comes to growth and advancement in their own careers.
That kind of guidance can also give young people more confidence as they enter the workforce and face unfamiliar situations. Having someone share real-world experience can help turn those lessons into skills they can carry forward
In Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? Continuing education every year for my insurance licenses
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Communicative
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? AI
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Rapport
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? Educating our youth so they are successful in the future.
About Me
Julie Friedly is a principal and senior vice president at Marsh McLennan Agency Arizona, where she has spent more than 15 years helping businesses navigate complex insurance and risk challenges. She has built one of the firm’s largest business insurance books while advising organizations across healthcare, human services, real estate, technology, manufacturing and other industries. Friedly is also passionate about developing the next generation of professionals through recruiting and mentorship. Outside of work, she has devoted nearly 15 years to nonprofit leadership and volunteer service supporting families, young women, veterans and individuals with disabilities across Greater Phoenix.
