Q1: Many people assume being the child of a CEO means a life on “easy mode”. What’s one thing about your journey that would completely shatter that stereotype?
Isabelle: “While many might think growing up as the daughter of a CEO comes with perks, the reality is quite different. My mother, Corinne Klajda, is a self-made success story and her journey was paved with hard work and sacrifices. I’ve seen firsthand the late nights and early mornings, the stress and challenges she faced while building her businesses. One thing that really stands out for me is the value of resilience and determination she instilled in me from a young age. There were no shortcuts; I was expected to work hard, understand the business and contribute meaningfully, just like everyone else in the company. This environment taught me that success isn’t given; it’s earned.”
Q2: You were running around the office in heels before you even knew what deadlines were – do you think that gave you a head start on office politics or just a better shoe collection?
Isabelle: “Definitely a bit of both! Wearing heels was my way of feeling part of the professional world and I thought it went well with seriousness and commitment. It was a symbol, that I was ready to take on challenges, even if I didn’t fully understand what those challenges were at the time. While it may have helped me navigate the office dynamics a little better, it was the experience and the relationships I built that truly shaped my understanding of office politics. Plus, I do have quite the shoe collection now!”
Q3: Do you remember your first ‘business negotiations’ as a child?
Isabelle: “Absolutely! It might sound funny, but I think my first real taste of negotiation came when I was trying to negotiate my pocket money with my Mom. Monika, my guide to office-related complexities, has emboldened me, encouraging to fight for the state of my finances:). I started off with 10 zlotys an hour for my duties, but I was really proud of myself when I successfully negotiated it up to 12! It was a small victory, but it taught me the importance of knowing my worth and advocating for myself, even at a young age. This moment had become a symbolic groundwork for my understanding of value in the business world.”
Q4: They say business is about getting your hands dirty. In your case, that was literal! How did tasks like office tidying and administrative work build your understanding of the company’s culture?
Isabelle: “My experiences with administrative work were eye-opening. I dove into tasks, like data entry, with such enthusiasm, that I found myself outpacing what was available for me to do. I always asked for more, driving team members crazy and making them create an additional TO DO list just for me. The company’s culture was hard work and dedication; everyone was expected to pull their weight. I learned the importance of every role within the company, regardless of how big or small it might seem. It also made me realize that a vibrant workplace stands on collaboration and support, what made it more & more interesting for me to witness it firsthand.”
Q5: Whether the ‘office holiday’ was a conscious encouraging plan of your CEO Mum, or a natural turn of events that you accepted?
Isabelle: “It felt like a bit of both. I genuinely enjoyed being around the office and learning about what my Mom did. It was interesting to see how her work shaped our family’s life and legacy, while making us all a part of an international structure. I think my Mom naturally encouraged me to be involved, but I also embraced it because it connected me to our family history. I realized that my Mom’s achievements were not just hers; they were part of a bigger narrative that included me. It made me proud to be part of something greater than just my individual experience.”