Tara Calton

Leading Through Experience 

I like to think of myself as a coach. When a new employee is learning our line of work, it can take a year or two to really get that person up to speed. It’s not a quick training process so it requires a little coaching along the way. I believe in letting the person try out their new role knowing that it is okay to make mistakes. We are all human and that is part of improving. As a leader and coach, embrace mistakes as they allow us to grow and celebrate victories as they come.  

As a leader, acknowledge that you aren’t there alone. Get to know your team’s family, hobbies and interests. Exceptional results come from a leader who thinks of the team as a “we” and not a “me”.

A “we” approach allows for that feeling of ownership within the company, which is something our owner, Susan Marler, has always encouraged. She is an incredible boss who I one day hope to emulate. She has created a work environment that inspires teamwork combined with gratefulness while encouraging a wonderful work/life balance. We all feel a part of the decisions made within the company, which makes the team want to work harder for the vision of the firm. 

A personable and approachable leader will allow for employees to feel at ease when they need to ask questions, have a family issue arise or feel like they need additional instruction over a project they are working on.  

Tara Calton

Operations Manager Advanced Plan Designs 

3859 S Cox Rd Springfield MO 65807 417.885.0181

advancedplandesigns.com