SM: What can you do if a team member isn’t pulling their weight?
Stefani Schaeffer: If I had a team member who was working against the team or just not acting in the best interest of the company, I would make that person aware. I would meet with them and try to see if it’s just a misfit in their position in the company—so that I could maybe pull a renewed sense of enthusiasm and drive from that person. If that still didn’t work, then at some point you have to be straight with people and say, “Look, this may not be the right fit for you. Is there something you think you’d rather be doing?” But in a positive way.

SM: What is your advice for women who want to be promoted to a leadership position?
Stefani Schaeffer: Women should start by acting like leaders. Don’t take a backseat, don’t be afraid to push up to the forefront and take charge. Take initiative and be fearless.

SM: What’s your best advice for young leaders?
Stefani Schaeffer: Be creative, fearless and absolutely—I can’t say it enough—enthusiastic. Be willing to make mistakes because everyone does. Don’t be afraid of that; be willing to jump in with both feet and take calculated risks and have fun with it. Don’t forget to be feminine; being a leader doesn’t mean pretending to be a man.