Every Friday, someone from the business community reveals themselves in our section. This week, Marie-Josée Gagnon, president and founder of Casacom, a strategic communications firm, answers our questions.
Published at 6:00 a.m.
Do you feel that your professional situation distances you from the majority of the population, or even from your employees?
No, I’m so active and present. I would even tell you on the contrary, in my job, the more we are connected, the more relevant we are. You must always keep this in mind and find ways to stay in touch with lots of people from all walks of life.
Are you more into radio, podcasts or music?
I’m 100% podcasting! The offer is great. You can listen to it while doing something else: jogging, cooking or riding the subway. To improve languages, get inspired or learn. I also launched a podcast [Brave] in 2017. I interviewed 55 personalities. There is such an intimacy that is created. We are in a cocoon.
What was your worst expense?
No matter how much I search, I can’t find it. I am not capable of regretting these things. I quickly move on to something else. I don’t have time to regret expenses. I could tell you about my best expense… My used piano which made my oldest a musician.
What is your best way to “network” in business and in your professional sector?
Get involved. I have served on over 20 boards and committees over 25 years. People could see that I am a trustworthy person. When you’re a good board member, a good volunteer and you’re well involved, it’s crazy the impact it can have. Everyone recognizes it, everyone thinks of you when the time comes, everyone refers you. It’s very effective. I always recommend people to get involved in giving back and building a strong network.
A musical artist who is part of the soundtrack of your adolescence and what does that remind you of?
Pink Floyd. Soaring melodies to listen to alone or with a gang in bungalow basements. I saw their exhibition in London a few years ago and it made me cry. I’m really a fan.
Notes… paper or electronic, and why?
Mostly electronic, 90% of the time. It’s so convenient, I can have everything at once on my phone, my tablet, my computer. But there is nothing better than paper to think, to plan your day, to clear your head, to ask yourself questions.
Your last laugh?
It happens often. My son, my youngest, is so funny. I’m a big fan! My husband is too funny too. Both make me laugh all the time.
Do you have a favorite item on your desk?
A little red plane that reminds me that Casacom is a vehicle that flies and that we have the freedom to go wherever we want. On the other hand, there is no one around to catch us if we fall.
What does trust mean to you?
It’s about having very good self-knowledge. It is a solid foundation on which we can build. It’s also about being able to reassure yourself when things don’t turn out the way you want or when you have to do something that is difficult.
At the office or at home?
In the office, on the road and at our customers’ homes, above all. To be with others, to learn, to stay connected. One day a week at home to work alone.
Who is Marie-Josée Gagnon?
Aged 56, Marie-Josée Gagnon is president and founder of Casacom, an integrated strategic communications and sustainability firm, present in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. His company was founded in 2001.
