Entrepreneur in Action | Alonzo Kelly – Small Biz CEO and Blog Talk Radio Host

Alonzo Kelly is the CEO of the Kelly Leadership Group. We both graduated from the same high school seminary in Northern Wisconsin, but he was a few years behind me. I recently became connected to him through his weekly Blog Talk Radio show, Leadership; The Way I See It. I am continually impressed by Alonzo’s work ethic and total positive regard for others. He lives the values that he shares on his popular radio show and I benefit each Monday by tuning in and often participating in the discussion. Alonzo’s enthusiasm is infectious and his years of experience in finance, non-profit, human resources and healthcare consulting provides a deep well of knowledge that he generously shares. Meet a classmate, friend and future colleague; Alonzo Kelly.

Career influences

My mom, Catherine Kelly. I have an award she received that recognizes her over 30 years of service at a grocery chain in Michigan. She stood on her feet for over 30 years as a cashier to make it possible for me to go to college. She was unwilling to negotiate with the power of education and said that no matter what, you do whatever you have for the attainment of education. It is indeed the only key you’ll need for your future.

The Black Wall Street (Greenwood, Oklahoma). It was the mecca for the entrepreneurial spirit of African Americans in the 1920’s. Though it would be burned down in one of the worst race riots in American History, it taught me that when you build a community of forward thinking leaders, who relied on nothing more than hard work and a commitment to community, you can accomplish anything in spite of the hurdles that get in the way.

Biggest Career Success

Taking everything I had been taught in school and the experiences I had working in various leadership roles, to help a group of homeless men polish their resumes, improve their interviewing skills, and get a job!

Recent Lessons Learned

Book value and market value do not mean the same thing and they do not produce the same desired results. Many businesses focus on accounting profits (book value) and celebrate a small bump in sales. The successful businesses however focus on creating value for their customers and clients. They understand accounting profits will come when you focus on the client first and themselves second. My business has increased 10 fold since I embraced this lesson

Brief Story

Recently I partnered with a client to transition from a task leader to a team leader. The most difficult part of getting a promotion is managing the multiple expectations that come with the new role. With new jobs come new expectations of yourself, your peer group, your previous team, your new team, your organization, and your customers/clients. Intentionally focusing on these expectations accelerates the transition process and ensures success. This is why I love coaching!

What Inspires

Give yourself permission to be AMAZING!
Give yourself permission to be HUMBLE!

About Alonzo

Alonzo Kelly is the President of Kelly Leadership Group, LLC which is a premier provider of executive coaching and leadership development services. His professional background includes a Senior VP role with Wells Fargo Funds Management Group, and other senior leadership roles in Pediatric Healthcare, Long Term Care, and the Nonprofit arena. His credentials include a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and three master’s degrees including Public Administration, Human Resources & Labor Relations, and Business Administration. He is currently completing his PhD in Public Service Leadership. Feel free to make a connection!