Monday Motivation: Joelle Thompson

When working with clients around the world, time zones can sometimes get the best of you! But Joelle Thompson has found the perfect midday work oasis – and it’s only steps away from her office.

Everyone gets a “Case of the Mondays.” What helps you get through your Monday? Is it a quote, or personal or professional goals?

The best way I know to head off a case of the Mondays is to get myself to my 6am daily exercise class. I work out with a tight-knit, eclectic group of people who always make me laugh. So, although it’s tough to get up that early (and ok, sometimes I roll over and go back to sleep), when I do make it, I always walk out feeling amazing and ready to take on the world. It also gives me some human interaction first thing in the morning – which is important for someone like me who works from home and doesn’t have that face-to-face connection at the office.

What is your favorite part of your current position with JMC?

As a consultant for Microsoft, I work on a CPE (Customer & Partner Experience) team within the Services organization, and we focus on improving the customer experience for enterprise Microsoft customers who use consulting services and premier support. My favorite part is advocating on behalf of the customer; thinking about how we should evolve our customer listening channels to get a better handle on customer needs, which in turn would allow us to be more proactive and less reactive on issues that arise. Working toward making that vision a reality is what motivates me.

Do you have a favorite playlist or podcast you listen to at work?

Since I don’t have to worry about disturbing anyone around me, I enjoy cranking up the volume in my home office and tuning into various Amazon Music stations. When I need to concentrate it’s mellow baroque music, and when I feel like rocking out I love a great 90’s alternative mix!

Do you have a daily routine that helps you through your day?

My client is on the east coast and my team is spread from Seattle to Bengaluru to Dubai, so for this gig, I’ve adjusted my workday to start early. The 6am workout kick-starts my day and I’m in the office by 7:30am (easy since my commute is just a few steps!). The timing is nice because I’m finishing my work around the time my two kids get home from school. I also try to take a real break and eat lunch outside on my garden patio, instead of at my desk. I can get away from the PC, enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather, listen to the hummingbirds and feel the breeze on my face. It helps me de-stress and relax.

Any exciting projects you are currently working on?

Earlier this year I was invited to join a new “JMC Social Squad” – which is a group made up of a cross-section of employees who collaborate on social media messaging & campaigns through the company’s online platforms. It gives me a chance to learn new tools, as well as to contribute some strategic concepts and creative content. I also love to get to know other consultants and staffers at JeffreyM, to exchange ideas and tap into our fun community.