This is the final installment in our fourth interview with Imann Fletcher, an Intel Analyst who is based in the Washington D.C. area. In this final segment, Imann and I discuss his burgeoning company and creating the workplace culture you want to see. Please remember: this interview is a reflection of solely Imann Fletcher's opinions and insights; this interview does not reflect the thoughts, feelings, opinions of any past, present or future client, employer or any other entity affiliated with Imann Fletcher.
Making an Impact and Building a Legacy
Dr. Norrell Edwards:
Tell us about the business you've just launched!Imann Fletcher:
Fletcher-Moore LLC is a National Security Defense Firm. We specialize in Intelligence. I started the company because I wanted to be the change I want to see in the world. Having been a healthcare professional, I understand the critical value of mental health. Far too many contracting companies do not offer mental health days. Mental health isn't highlighted as much as it should be.I wanted to start a company that provides mental health days to their employees, gives more than three days for bereavement leave, offers competitive salaries and bonuses. I want to continue making an impact in the National Security world. I'm really good at what I do, but starting my company is a way for me to build a lasting legacy in the field.
N:
It sounds like you're invested in shifting work culture and that's the kind of thing you can do the best when you build your own vehicle. Sometimes you can't shift the culture from within an institution. You have to break away if you want a different kind of culture.I:
: Exactly. I decided I could control the culture of my company and build around my employees and what they need.Difficult Transitions and Embracing Human Nature
N:
You started this company within the last year. What would you say some of the challenges and difficult transitions have been?I:
In order to have a successful business, you have to be able to cultivate relationships with people. You have to take care of your employees. You have to take care of the 'boots on the ground.' When people feel like they are taken care of—from paying them enough so they don't have to think about food for their family or worrying about healthcare — they can do their best work.I:
Sometimes I think we forget that we're not machines. AI is something else; we're still just people. One thing I'm learning as a CEO is the importance of communicating and listening to your people. The people will give you what they need. Your job as the business owner is to accommodate your people and your clients.N:
With as many jobs and roles as I've worked, I sometimes think I should transition to owning or running something. Being a cog in the system versus overseeing the whole system are two drastically different job functions. Overseeing everything really means you understand how everything functions and you ensure all the pieces are connecting and stay connected. Funding is a major part of that. How are you finding that transition?I:
Two things about me: I love chess and challenges. Chess is about coming up with a plan, executing that plan and making adjustments when things don't go to plan. Yes, it's a challenge but if you look at the big puzzle that can feel intimidating, but if you compartmentalize the issues, separate your work, take your time, ask for help when you need (I have two business partners working for m right now) that's everything.I:
It's about putting pieces together and taking your time. Fall in love with the process; the results will show. I'm in love with learning right now.Major Takeaways
Imann started his business because he wanted to see a change in his field around mental health. If you think there's something important missing from the world that might be your charge to go start that project or build it. Building your own project or company can certainly be difficult but you have to love learning and learning from mistakes. As Imann says fall in love with the process and remain strategic.
