Dental Entrepreneur Woman - Spring 2023

LAUREN SEYMOUR

Vice President, North America Sales at Dentsply Sirona linkedin.com/in/lauren-seymour-24193121

What is the Best Part of Your Job?

To me, it’s helping leaders become the kind of leader they want to work for AND work with. We all had bosses we have loved, respected, and grown professionally as a result of working with them, and we've all have had some who, unfortunately, are none of the above. My hope is NOT to be the former of the two!

Who Has Been the Most Influential Person in Your Life?

The most influential person in my life is my Dad. He’s going strong at 91. He’s a Korean war veteran and a girl dad. He taught me there is nothing that a man can do that a woman can’t do. We didn’t have any boys in the family, so if there was a “boy chore,” you did it. He also taught me to never give up and be the best version of myself that I can be.

How Do You Measure Your Success?

Through those I can influence in the trajectory of their careers. I was told once that leadership is a privilege - you can affect people in their careers, but you can also affect their entire lives. I always try to remember that it’s a great honor to be in a role where you can change people’s lives.

What Obstacles Have You Overcome in Your Career?

Overcoming the statement, “Oh, she’s just a salesperson,” has always been a challenge. Salespeople are highly skilled professionals that bring great value to their organizations. They are intuitive, bright, highly analytical, and have high business acumen. My job is to highlight how a successful sales professional drives a better patient experience.

What Do You Do To Turn Around a Bad Day?

I try to focus on controlling the controllables and on being grateful, even on my worst days! First, I need to focus on what I can control, I can help, and I can resolve. THAT moves the needle. Second, my bad day likely pales in comparison to folks around the globe who have problems WAY bigger than mine. Be mindful of the struggles of others.

What is Your Favorite Indoor/Outdoor Activity?

My favorite outdoor activity is enjoying a cocktail outside on a beautiful spring day and my favorite indoor activity is Orangetheory Fitness. I need exercise even more as I become more “mature” (old).

What is Your Dream Vacation?

I’ve actually already taken my dream vacation. I took a cruise on a small ship around Tahiti that went to Bora Bora, Papeete, and Raiatea. It was the best vacation ever, and I still dream about going back.

What Movie Always Makes You Laugh?

The Proposal (Betty White cracks me up), and Elf (the comedy is unexpected and timeless).

What is the Best Gift You Ever Gave?

The best gift you can give those you love is the gift of your time. With work-life balance always being a challenge, I try to ensure that when I am with someone, I am fully present and engaged. Time is a precious commodity, so when you give that gift to others, give it with full purpose and intention.