Print Pioneer in a Web World

Few can say they were instrumental in upping their company’s revenue by tenfold in less than five years – Christine Osekoski can.

And her impact as publisher of business media brand Fast Company hasn’t been just monetary. She’s helped turn the once-floundering print publication into a multi-platform  powerhouse that reaches readers when they want, wherever they are.

The daughter of a military man, she’s been described as “relentless” and a “supernova” when it comes to taking brands to the next level. She credits her success to meticulous scheduling, a knack for performing in front of crowds and her Girl Scout past.

PINK: What are your best Life/Work balance tips?
CO:I schedule everything – I have to. I schedule phone conversations with friends, yoga, personal training and every personal appointment. I even schedule in preparation and travel time in between. I’ve gotten better at it because – especially when you like your job – you spend a lot of time working, and it can go overboard.

PINK: What’s your biggest weakness as a leader?
CO:I can be overbearing. I’m an intense person. I had a military dad, so I set a high level of expectations for myself. I have to be careful to not de-motivate my team because of my intensity level.

I literally had to say to them, “Here’s the deal. My schedule is different from yours. I have a boyfriend who travels globally. Some days, I will send you emails at 6:30 in the morning on a Sunday. Don’t answer them. It’s really OK. I don’t expect you to work on a Sunday!”

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By Caroline Cox

“In order to be successful, we need to channel our own strength.”

Christine Osekoski