Women in Business: Jaclyn House

Residence: Rogers

Education: University of Arkansas (attended)

Professional background: After more than a decade working in merchandise support in the corporate sector, House pursued a media career. She joined KNWA/KFTA (NBC and Fox affiliates) in 2016 as a digital producer. She later transitioned to an on-air role as a producer and co-host of “Good Day NWA,” the region’s daily lifestyle show. In May this year, House became a morning co-anchor of “KNWA Today.”

What do you think of the opportunities that exist for women in business compared with when you started? I’ve been fortunate in my career that most of the members of my team have been women, so I’ve always known that achieving higher levels of leadership was attainable.  I’ve seen overwhelming support when it comes to women wanting to break barriers.

How should women support other women in their organizations? I appreciate small gestures … asking to meet for coffee or lunch. Checking in with a message asking how things are going. In this age of social media, sharing and engaging on posts are also great ways to show support.

Who was a big mentor to you in the early part of your career? There have been so many mentors in my career. Tasha Tandy, Tene Green, Tavares Jones, Lisa Brence. They have all had a profound impact on my career. I’ve learned several things from each of them, but a consistent message I’ve learned and keep with me is how to show up authentically in everything I do and also the importance of having people support you and give you real feedback needed even if it’s tough to hear. I’ve appreciated that.

What is the best leadership advice you have ever received? Consider what it’s like to be on the other side of you when you’re communicating. My husband said that to me and that resonated with me. When leading a team, I think it’s important to remember to treat everyone has different ways of learning and taking in feedback. If you are intentional on how you communicate it goes a long way.

What are some of the leadership skills that helped you move up in your organization? Building trust and engaging with team members at all levels and across different job functions.

What is something distinctive that people would be surprised to know about you? I watch Christmas movies year-round. They make me happy.

What is the most fulfilling part of your work? There are so many people and organizations that are “boots on the ground” working every day to make an impact in our community, and I consider myself blessed to be able to meet and connect with them to help tell their stories.

What’s the most recent book you’ve read? I jumped on the “ACOTAR” [“A Court of Thorns and Roses”] bandwagon. It was pretty good.

What do you do to relax when not working? I love reading and recently became obsessed with sound bath meditations. I’m a member at Blake St., and now that we’re in summer I will be poolside often.

Why do you think companies would benefit from having more women at the top? Women are able to meet people where they are. I think that’s important as you will work with many people from different backgrounds. Women care about people from the soul level not just from the surface.