Name: Holly Norton
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/holly-norton-0202
Website: www.strunkgroup.com
Age: When it comes to business, I am all about transparency. When it comes to my personal life, I like to keep people guessing. No way I am disclosing this information voluntarily!
Title: HR Business Consultant
Married/Single: Well, this is a complex question that only gives two options. I have been Single. I have been Married. I am currently not married, and I am in a fulfilling relationship that brings me joy.
Kids: My 15-year-old son is the light of my life.
City you live in: Phoenix
A typical day in my life includes… resilience and patience. I am an HR powerhouse, and I am parenting a teenager. These roles remind me that life is unpredictable. It is important to be flexible and pivot as situations arise. At the end of each day, I know I have done my best to be patient and resilient with the things that come my way.
I was born… in Flint, Michigan. My dad was in the Army, so my brother was born in Germany. My mom was born in British Columbia and is a naturalized citizen. With so much diversity in where my family has traveled and come from, somehow, I was born in Flint. Nothing against the Midwest; I just see myself as someone who would have been born somewhere more exotic.
My favorite thing about Arizona…is the sunsets! Nothing else compares to them.
I’m listening to…the Audiobook Give and Take by Adam Grant.I joined a client’s book club, and I went from reading to listening because our meet-up is rapidly approaching. I want to absorb the information and contribute to the conversation. This book will likely be in my top 10 recommendations for leadership reads.
My family…is everything. Enough said.
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be…my dad. He passed away when I was a child, and I would love the opportunity to have dinner with him as an adult. Gosh…I have so many questions.
One thing I cannot live without…hot sauce, not Tabasco, but good hot sauce with flavor. I love spicy food and am convinced that most foods taste better with a little bit of heat.
When I was younger, I wanted to be…a veterinarian. Then I found out I had to treat all types of animals, not just dogs. Plus, I would need to pass biology. AND take advanced math courses. Thank you…but next!
I’m inspired by…a great comeback story. I have always rooted for the underdog, and there’s nothing more inspiring than someone reinventing themselves or winning when the odds are stacked against them.
The one person who motivates me is…my son. He amazes me daily with his kindness, humor, and confidence. I honestly think to myself, “Where did this kid come from?” He inspires me to show up as the best version of myself. Honestly, that is the only thing in the world I want for him to do in his life.
If I could change anything in the world, it would be…a world free of violence. While achieving a this may seem like a very big undertaking, each person’s efforts, no matter how small, can contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world.
The perfect day would be…going on a hike with my Siberian Husky, Opie, taking a yoga class, going to the spa, and ending the day with a delicious dinner enjoyed with family and friends.
My first job was…as a hostess at a Mexican restaurant when I was 15. My mom took me there for my birthday dinner and asked if they were hiring. They put me on the schedule the very next day. Happy Birthday to me!
My favorite escape…is Cabo, San Lucas. It’s my happy place and is only a two-hour flight from Sky Harbor. I also love weekend get-aways to Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point). I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I love going there. My son and nephews love it, too. We have built many fond memories there.
My life…has a lot of moving parts and is pretty incredible. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I’m currently working on…myself. We are all a work in progress. I believe that the moment we stop striving, we stop growing. I will always seek out opportunities that help me learn, grow, and evolve. It goes back to showing up as the best version of myself.
Always…manners. It is so simple to say please, thank you, and you’re welcome.
Never…take yourself too seriously! The world can be a heavy place sometimes and laughter and humor are so healing for the soul!
Favorite Quote…I always find myself telling my son, team members, family, friends, and my clients, “Everything is Solvable.” These are my words of wisdom when the people I care about are faced with a challenge and need comfort or a gentle reminder to seek a solution. Two years ago, I discovered Marie Forleo. She says (and even titled a book), “Everything is Figureoutable.” Same concept, but her quote is quirkier and more memorable. However, you say it, we each have the power within ourselves to figure out solutions to the challenges life throws our way.
Biggest Dream…to have Justin Timberlake sing to me at a private party in LA…Wait, that already happened! There are different versions of the story depending on who you talk to, but the facts are real. Justin addressed me at a private party. I even have a picture that was featured in People Magazine to prove it. In all seriousness, I haven’t dreamed my biggest dream yet. As I continue to evolve, so do my dreams.
My Pet Peeve(s)…Smoking…it’s just gross! And rude people. I mean, what’s the point?
Bio-on yourself/company: Holly Norton is a pioneer in the HR industry. With more than 20 years of experience and top tier industry certifications, Holly has discovered A Better Way to empower and support leaders and executives. As the leader of the Strunk Insurance Group division of Strunk HR, Holly’s unique approach to HR services guides their clients to build and maintain a five-star work culture where employees feel valued, productivity improves, and profits flourish.
Throughout her HR career, Holly has been sought after for her innovative approach to creating and maintaining a thriving work culture. Holly knows the value of putting people first in the corporate structure. Valued employees collaborate and work toward a common vision on projects, bring their best work and talent to the team, and have higher productivity. Companies that choose to work with Holly see results not only in their bottom line, but in the overall flow and cohesion of team members at all levels.
With a vision far beyond compliance, working with Holly and Strunk HR leads each client to a truly customized approach to HR. From onboarding to compliance to leadership development, Holly’s comprehensive approach saves companies valuable time and money. Her favorite part of her job is coaching clients to help them discover the purpose and power of investing in their greatest asset, their people.
