Meet Maria Bearson, one of our super-star National Account Managers here at image.works! If you’ve had any interaction with Maria, you know how kind and knowledgeable she is. When Maria is not on the clock with IW, you will likely find her working out, working on personal and professional development or boating with her husband, Michael, and their Pudelpointer, Chief.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
My favorite part about this job is hearing the weekly feedback and compliments from our clients. Our team really is incredible at what we do, and it’s wonderful to know how appreciated we are and that the efforts do not go unnoticed. This positive feedback gives me even greater confidence in talking to clients about our services!
What brought you to image.works?
I was working in a corporate sales role for four years. I was drawn to image.works because of the smaller company setting and because they offered some of the best marketing in the industry. I also came from selling one single product, which is the opposite of working here at IW; I never run out of things to talk about because we have such a large variety of services and product offerings!
How has image.works influenced you/helped you grow?
Piggy-backing off the last question, image.works has so much to offer and it’s ever-changing, especially in the digital world! It has been incredible to watch our company transform over the years so effortlessly.
Favorite place to travel to in Wisconsin?
Door County, specifically Sister Bay.
What is the most “Wisconsin” thing about you?
CHEESE! My grandfather was an immigrant from Switzerland and started a cheese business here in WI. My dad was also a Master Cheesemaker and owned a cheese business as well. I also have two aunts and uncles that own separate cheese businesses. Does it get more “Wisconsin” than an entire family full of (award-winning) cheese?!
Secret talent or something about you that would surprise people.
I am a former natural Pro Bodybuilder. I competed back in 2018 and won two Pro cards as well as a Pro Championship. My competing days are over for now but it was a wonderful experience!
The most admirable characteristic a person can/should have.
Authenticity and courage.
Words to live by:
“Growth and comfort do not coexist.” Too many people aren’t living to their full potential; it’s important to get comfortable being uncomfortable.
What does leadership mean to you?
To me, a true leader is someone who is self-aware and can effectively communicate their thoughts and ideas. They know which levers to pull and when to pull them. Effective leaders are happy to do the “dirty work” but they also understand when they need to delegate. True leaders have a growth mindset and see problems as a good challenge. They understand that things are always changing and love feedback without taking constructive criticism personally. I am thankful to be working with some true leaders at IW!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your life?
In 2018, my 33-year-old brother, Alex, took his own life. I mention this because I understand every person has their own struggles in life. Of course, this will always be a challenge, but I have an even greater perspective on life and I am a better, more well-rounded person because of this experience. The most difficult struggles are the greatest gifts.
Describe yourself in three words.
Driven, optimistic and dependable.
For more fun facts about Maria, click here!