Leading with Heart: Michelle Pyan of Commercial Investigations On The Power of Authentic Women’s Leadership
An Interview With Pirie Jones Grossman
Straightforward Communication: In my leadership, I believe in straightforward and transparent communication. This creates an environment where my colleagues feel at ease, knowing there are no hidden agendas. I want them to feel safe and free to voice their opinions, agreements, disagreements, and suggestions at any time. I don’t have just one example, but the best way to phrase it is that everyone knows exactly where they stand with me at all times.
In today’s dynamic world, the concept of leadership is continuously evolving. While traditional leadership models have often been male-dominated, there is a growing recognition of the unique strengths and perspectives that women bring to these roles. This series aims to explore how women can become more effective leaders by authentically embracing their femininity and innate strengths, rather than conforming to traditional male leadership styles. In this series, we are talking to successful women leaders, coaches, authors, and experts who can provide insights and personal stories on how embracing their inherent feminine qualities has enhanced their leadership abilities. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Michelle Pyan, Owner of Commercial Investigations LLC.
Michelle Pyan, founder and President of Commercial Investigations LLC, has transformed the background investigations industry with her proactive approach and strategic leadership. Her commitment to excellence has garnered recognition, including the Woman to Watch award in 2009. With a legal background from Winona State University and an MBA from The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Michelle provides clients worldwide with information to make the best hiring decisions. As an industry leader, licensed private investigator, and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines legal expertise with business acumen to drive success for her clients.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about authentic, feminine leadership, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
Thank you so much for having us! It’s a pleasure to share a bit about my journey. Growing up, I had a unique experience playing baseball with boys in high school. Being the very first girl on my boys’ high school team ignited a passion in me for breaking boundaries and challenging stereotypes.
In the early ’90s, becoming a private investigator was not considered a typical career path for women. However, fueled by my love for investigations and a desire to keep playing the game, I pursued it without being deterred by expectations. I didn’t initially think about demographics or gender norms — I simply wanted to follow my passion.
Reflecting on my journey, I realized that my history often weaves in and out of male-dominated situations. It didn’t deter me; in fact, it motivated me to carve my own path. Despite my unconventional career choice, I’ve always maintained my love for makeup and a preference for practicality over dresses, although I don’t shy away from them when the occasion calls.
Starting a business was another dream I had, and it didn’t initially dawn on me that most businesses were started by men. I was interested in the world of private investigation, and someone gave me the opportunity to prove myself. From undercover surveillance to workers’ compensation cases, I immersed myself in every aspect of being a private investigator.
My compliance background led me to work with regulated industries, and I found a niche in investigations. Through the twists and turns of my journey, I’ve embraced the challenges, driven by a commitment to authenticity in my leadership and a passion for breaking through barriers. I’m excited to explore the power of authentic, feminine leadership in our discussion today.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
Absolutely, one of the most impactful moments in my career aligns closely with the core of what we do here. We were investigating on an individual who had applied for a position within an organization that works with children. During the course of our investigation, we uncovered that the person had a prior conviction for selling drugs in a school zone not once, but twice.
While the individual didn’t ultimately secure the position, the essence of our work goes beyond simply limiting people from getting jobs. It’s about ensuring that the right individuals are placed in roles where they can contribute positively, especially when dealing with organizations that involve vulnerable populations, such as children.
This experience reinforced the significance of our work in protecting these vulnerable populations by uncovering crucial information that might otherwise have gone unnoticed. It’s a testament to the importance of thorough investigations in making informed decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of those we aim to serve.
What do you think makes your company stand out? Can you share a story?
What sets our company apart is our unwavering commitment to authentic values that guide every aspect of our operations. From the beginning, we’ve prioritized core values in our hiring process and daily operations. It’s not just a tagline for us; we live and breathe our values, and it’s what truly distinguishes us in the industry.
One story that encapsulates our commitment revolves around our dedication to client satisfaction. We firmly believe that nothing is more important than ensuring our clients receive exactly what they expect every time. To emphasize this, we have a prominent whiteboard at the front of our office displaying the percentage of incoming calls answered on that particular day. It’s a visual representation of our commitment to responsiveness, and we’re proud to maintain a remarkable 95% incoming call pickup rate.
For us, customer service is not just a department; it’s a pillar of everything we do. We walk the talk, and this commitment has not only earned us a solid reputation but has also become a defining factor in the positive experiences our clients have with us. Our unique approach to values-driven operations truly sets us apart and ensures that every interaction with our company is marked by authenticity and dedication.
You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Reflecting on my journey I’d say three-character traits that have truly been instrumental are tenacity, transparency, and compassion.
There’s this saying that success is often one part talent and nine parts perseverance. I live by that. I’ve encountered challenges that required sheer tenacity and grit to overcome. I think the best examples come from tough economic conditions, where decisions need to be made that affect the trajectory of the business.
In my leadership style, I believe in being upfront and transparent. No guessing, no sugarcoating — what you see is what you get. This approach builds trust within the team. I give quarterly “State of the Company” meetings to all employees, so they know the direction we’re heading and our overall company health.
Compassion is at the core of everything I do. Whether it’s our clients, especially in sectors like healthcare and non-profit, or our employees, I see my role as a protector. I genuinely care about their well-being. The instance of the two-time school zone drug seller is more common than you might think. We want to be the ones your organization can rely on.
So, in a nutshell, these character traits have shaped my journey and are central to how I lead. They’ve helped me navigate challenges, build a transparent work culture, and forge meaningful connections with both clients and the fantastic individuals I have the privilege to work with.
Leadership often entails making difficult decisions or hard choices between two apparently good paths. Can you share a story with us about a hard decision or choice you had to make as a leader? I’m curious to understand how these challenges have shaped your leadership.
Navigating through economically challenging times has been a recurring theme throughout our 20-year journey as a business. Each instance has presented tough decisions that required a delicate balance between sustaining the company and ensuring our team’s well-being. Viewing our company as a collective entity, we understand that for CI to survive, we sometimes face difficult choices.
One specific instance that stands out involves the need for layoffs and shared work to weather economic downturns. It’s a stark reality that we’ve had to confront to ensure the longevity of our business. We firmly believe that it does nobody any good if CI doesn’t survive these challenges. Our unique perspective is to look at CI as more than just a business entity — it’s akin to a person with its own set of needs and vulnerabilities.
Our commitment to survival isn’t solely for our benefit but also for our niche clientele that heavily relies on us. Through strategic decision-making, we’ve managed to stave off layoffs in recent history. However, these long past experiences have profoundly shaped our collective view of the whole. It reinforces the importance of staying true to what we offer, understanding the interconnectedness of our team, and making decisions that prioritize the sustainability of CI as a whole. These challenges have undoubtedly shaped our leadership philosophy, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and a deep sense of responsibility to our team and clients.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Can you share a personal experience where embracing your unique leadership style, which might not align with traditional expectations, led to a significant positive impact in your organization or team?
Certainly, one notable instance revolves around fostering collaboration within our organization. I believe that leadership is not about having all the right answers but creating an environment where diverse perspectives contribute to collective success.
My unique style is characterized by collaboration and inclusivity. While I may be opinionated, I am not dictatorial. Instead of relying solely on a top-down approach, I seek input from individuals across the organization. Recognizing that different team members bring valuable experiences and expertise to the table, I strive to create a culture where everyone’s insights are valued.
This collaborative approach led to a significant positive impact. By encouraging open dialogue and soliciting input from all levels, we were able to tap into the wealth of knowledge that exists within our team. This not only enhanced problem-solving but also fostered a sense of ownership and buy-in from everyone in the business.
Our clients enjoy this philosophy too, as we train “Subject Matter Experts,” responsible for separate parts of a background investigation, like an assembly line. When our clients have a question, they’re directed to the person with the most knowledge to help them on their specific matter.
Ultimately, embracing this unique leadership style has created a more dynamic and resilient organization. It’s a testament to the belief that effective leadership is not about having all the answers but leveraging the collective wisdom of the team to drive positive outcomes.
In your journey as a leader, how have you balanced demonstrating resilience, often seen as a masculine trait, with showing vulnerability, which is equally powerful, but typically feminine? Can you give an example where this balance created a meaningful difference?
I believe in the power of both and recognizing when to apply each has made a meaningful difference.
In my role, there are times when decisive, masculine resilience is crucial. Making tough decisions and providing clear direction, even when uncertainties linger, is a responsibility I embrace. For instance, there have been moments where I’ve said, ‘This is what we’re going to do’ — when I might not be completely sure, but acknowledge the need for reassurance and instilling faith in the team.
On the flip side, I also understand the strength that vulnerability brings. During the challenging times of COVID, for instance, I faced the dilemma of not wanting to lay off employees. It required a different approach — a more vulnerable one. I sought ways to keep everyone on board, even if it meant making sacrifices personally to ensure the well-being of the entire team. This vulnerability created a shared sense of purpose and commitment during a difficult period.
Additionally, when aiming to elevate our business to new heights, collaboration becomes paramount. We’ve taken our business background to another level by involving multiple teams and individuals. We hold collaborative meetings where people join to understand the direction of the company from different perspectives. This inclusive approach helps in developing the right products and reports for our clients, enhancing the overall business strategy.
The balance between resilience and vulnerability is dynamic and context-dependent. It’s about knowing when to take charge decisively and when to open up, collaborate, and empathize. This balance has not only shaped my leadership style but has also created a meaningful impact, especially during challenging times and collaborative initiatives.
As a woman in leadership, how have you navigated and challenged gender stereotypes, especially in situations where traditional male-dominated approaches are the norm? What strategies have you employed to remain authentic to your style?
Navigating and challenging gender stereotypes as a woman in leadership has been an integral part of my journey, and I’ve approached it by engraining my authentic style into the fabric of CI. Rather than conforming to traditional male-dominated approaches, I’ve focused on building a unique approach over the span of 20 years.
At CI, we embrace a marketing message that reflects our distinctive style — a ‘cheesy’ uniqueness that aligns with our corporate voice and is directly influenced by my personality. We purposefully stand out by infusing witty messaging into our communications. This authenticity is not just a marketing strategy; it’s a reflection of who we are as a company.
One key aspect of my leadership style revolves around being empathetic. We prioritize a ‘family first’ mentality and genuinely believe that supporting employees in all aspects of their lives translates to better performance on the job. Our approach goes beyond the workplace, extending to personal aspects like attending ball games, supporting further education, or simply making sure employees are taken care of in times of need.
We understand that allowing employees to address personal matters first leads to a more engaged and productive work environment. Whether it’s taking care of family responsibilities or dealing with personal matters, we encourage our team to prioritize what’s important to them. This approach not only benefits our employees’ overall well-being but also enhances their ability to deliver exceptional results for our clients. It’s a philosophy rooted in empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to the holistic well-being of our team members.
How do you utilize emotional intelligence and active listening to create an inclusive environment in your team or organization? Could you share a specific instance where these qualities particularly enhanced team dynamics or performance?”
Emotional intelligence and active listening play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive environment within our team at CI. I am particularly conscientious of both body language and choice of words, recognizing that effective communication extends beyond mere verbal exchange.
In practice, I go beyond hearing the words spoken and actively observe other elements such as tone, word choice, and body language. This depth of listening allows me to understand the underlying emotions and sentiments. By reading people and being attuned to their emotional cues, I can tailor my messages accordingly, ensuring that communication is not only clear but also resonates with the diverse perspectives within the team.
I use these qualities during enhanced team dynamics, and critical discussions. I try to notice subtle cues in the team’s body language, and pause to actively listen and engage in a more open dialogue. This creates a space for team members to express their concerns and suggestions, ultimately leading to a more inclusive decision-making process.
By leveraging emotional intelligence and active listening, we not only foster an environment where team members feel heard and valued but also enhance overall team performance. It’s about creating a culture that recognizes and appreciates the unique contributions of each individual, leading to more informed and collaborative decision-making.
What role has mentorship played in developing your authentic leadership style, and how do you communicate authentically to inspire and empower both your mentors and mentees?
Mentorship has played a significant role in shaping my authentic leadership style. I approach mentorship with an inquisitive mindset, adopting the role of an investigator. I analyze not only what my mentors do but also why they make certain decisions and how it aligns with their values and goals. It’s a continuous process of learning from their experiences while also recognizing that their guidance is tailored to their unique situations.
One valuable lesson from a mentor involved understanding the importance of reflection before sleep. He shared that thinking about key work-related aspects before bedtime led to waking up with fresh ideas and a clear direction for the day. I found this approach intriguing and applied it to my situation, emphasizing the significance of taking time to reflect on crucial aspects before rest.
As a mentor myself, I emphasize the importance of tailoring advice to the mentee’s situation rather than imposing my experiences onto them. It’s about providing guidance that aligns with their unique challenges and goals. Additionally, I participate in two peer groups — the Women’s Presidents group and the Mahoney Performance Institute. These groups serve as both sources of mentorship and platforms for mentoring others. Being part of these peer groups allows for a dynamic exchange of insights and experiences, contributing to a continuous cycle of mentorship and learning.
Ultimately, authentic communication is at the heart of my mentorship approach. Whether as a mentor or mentee, it’s about sharing experiences, insights, and challenges authentically, fostering a supportive environment where both parties can grow and thrive.
Ok super. Here is the main question of our interview. Based on your experience and research, can you please share “5 Ways Leading Authentically As A Woman Will Affect Your Leadership”? If you can, please share a story or an example for each.
1 . Straightforward Communication: In my leadership, I believe in straightforward and transparent communication. This creates an environment where my colleagues feel at ease, knowing there are no hidden agendas. I want them to feel safe and free to voice their opinions, agreements, disagreements, and suggestions at any time. I don’t have just one example, but the best way to phrase it is that everyone knows exactly where they stand with me at all times.
2 . Good Judgement in Collaboration: Authentic leadership, to me, involves exercising good judgment to determine when collaboration would be beneficial. Especially in projects with stakeholders, collaboration becomes a powerful tool. It’s not just about the current project but also about building the next generation of women leaders through mentorship and collaboration. We have a partnership with a healthcare organization that we use to test new products and get ideas from. We like to think the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
3 . Company Personality: I believe in shaping the personality of the company. Adding a touch of wit to our marketing strategies helps in keeping clients engaged and loyal. This unique voice sets us apart and contributes to a brand identity that resonates with both employees and clients. We have a couple “mascots,” but my favorite is our eagle called Guardian. Using Guardian gives us a unique angle to use real-life examples in our marketing that are fun and easy to read.
4 . Educational Approach: I take an educational approach to life, being helpful and empowering others through knowledge. This philosophy extends to my leadership, where the focus is on teaching rather than simply directing. One method we use at Commercial Investigations is requiring employees to use 12 hours of work time throughout the year to focus on passions outside of work. We believe that a more well-rounded person translates to a more well-rounded employee, and our staff appreciates the extra time they get to immerse themselves in another project.
5 . Authenticity in the Workplace: You know, I firmly believe that leadership should be as comfortable as your favorite pair of shoes, or in my case, a “purr-fect” pair of kitten heels. So, to allow my colleagues to show up as their authentic selves, we’ve embraced a relaxed dress code. No one ever told me you can’t strategize in your favorite comfy sneakers or conquer the business world in a pair of heels.
Are there potential pitfalls or challenges associated with being an empathetic leader? How can these be addressed?
Certainly, every form of leadership comes with its pros and cons, and being an empathetic leader is no exception. One potential challenge is the risk of being perceived as too soft or lenient, especially in my field. Some might view empathy as a weakness, and there could be concerns about decision-making being influenced by emotions rather than sound judgment.
To address these challenges, it’s important to strike a balance and find what works comfortably for you. While being empathetic, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of decisiveness. Clearly communicate the rationale behind decisions and demonstrate that empathy is not a sign of weakness but a strength that fosters understanding and collaboration.
Being an empathetic leader creates a more real and approachable image, opening up psychological safety within the organization. However, it’s easy to fall into the trap of imitating leadership styles that may not align with your authentic self. It’s easy to look at what others, especially men in security, have done and try to emulate that, but it’s crucial to stay true to your own style.
Ultimately, the key is to embrace empathy as a strength, recognizing that it contributes to a positive and inclusive work environment. By addressing concerns through clear communication and maintaining authenticity, the potential pitfalls associated with empathetic leadership can be navigated effectively.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
If I could start a movement that would bring the most good to the most people, it would focus on addressing hunger among children. I am extremely passionate about ensuring that no child goes hungry. The movement would involve supporting gardens in schools, providing children with the opportunity to learn how to grow their own food.
By integrating gardening education into school curricula, children would not only gain practical skills like controlling soil in a pot or nurturing a tomato seed but also develop a profound understanding of where their food comes from. This initiative aims to combat hunger at its roots, both literally and figuratively, by empowering children with the knowledge and skills to produce their own sustenance.
The goal would be to make education on food sources an integral part of their learning experience, fostering a connection to the food they consume. In doing so, we can contribute to reducing hunger among American children and promoting a more sustainable and nourished future. By starting at the grassroots level, you create potential to bring positive change to the lives of countless children, addressing not just the immediate need but also building a foundation for lifelong well-being.
How can our readers further follow you online?
LinkedIn is the best place. You can find me @MichellePyan. I just recently started a new LinkedIn Newsletter titled “Insightful Vetting Chronicle’s” where I talk about my past experiences as a PI. I save the crazier stories for my personal newsletter. You can also find Commercial Investigations on LinkedIn and Facebook!
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
About The Interviewer: Pirie is a TedX speaker, author and a Life Empowerment Coach. She is a co-host of Own your Throne podcast, inspiring women in the 2nd chapter of their lives. With over 20 years in front of the camera, Pirie Grossman understands the power of storytelling. After success in commercials and acting. She spent 10 years reporting for E! Entertainment Television, Entertainment Tonight, also hosted ABC’s “Every Woman”. Her work off-camera capitalizes on her strength, producing, bringing people together for unique experiences. She produced a Children’s Day of Compassion during the Dalai Lama’s visit here in 2005. 10,000 children attended, sharing ideas about compassion with His Holiness. From 2006–2009, Pirie Co-chaired the Special Olympics World Winter Games, in Idaho, welcoming 3,000 athletes from over 150 countries. She founded Destiny Productions to create Wellness Festivals and is an Advisory Board member of the Sun Valley Wellness Board.In February 2017, Pirie produced, “Love is Louder”, a Brain Health Summit, bringing in Kevin Hines, noted suicide survivor to Sun Valley who spoke to school kids about suicide. Sun Valley is in the top 5% highest suicide rate per capita in the Northwest, prompting a community initiative with St. Luke’s and other stake holders, to begin healing. She lives in Sun Valley with her two children, serves on the Board of Community School. She has her Master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica and is an Executive Life Empowerment Coach, where she helps people meet their dreams and goals! The difference between a dream and a goal is that a goal is a dream with a date on it!
