At PepTalkHer, we’re on a mission to empower YOU to know your worth and understand your value in the workplace. And what better way to start than asking our favorite women in business?
We chatted with Marlo Grover, the infectiously happy founder of G Pump Fitness. She and I met a few years ago at Vogue Codes where I was keynote speaking. She found me online and we’ve been fast friends ever since. She’s a fashion mogul turned fitness entrepreneur. She exudes energy 24/7 - you’re going to love her advice!
Meggie: Marlo, ever since we met a few years ago at the Vogue event, I’ve been so impressed with your tenacity and energy in your epic entrepreneurial journey ever since! For those who don’t know you, how would you describe what you do?
Marlo: An opportunity maker, yes-sayer, and positive-vibes lady!
Meggie: We are OBSESSED with G Pump at PepTalkHer. Can you tell us how you got to where you are today?
Marlo: Relationships, reaching out, asking for support, saying yes to every opportunity that comes my way, and failing as often and fast as possible. Working out what I don't want to do so I can do what I do want to do as soon as possible!
“You have to be authentic and consistent.”
Meggie: I feel like your days are always SUPER varied, can you tell me about a day at work you'll never forget?
Marlo: Filming a G. Pump workout on the sandy white beaches of Australia one minute, and on the same day, a prominent TV presenter walking into a room of people, knowing who I was and congratulating me on the awesomeness of G. Pump. Umm... HELL YES!
Meggie: That sounds amazing. G Pump, and yourself, have such a strong brand on social media. What’s your advice on growing a personal brand?
Marlo: You have to be authentic and consistent. Really get a clear idea of your brand pillars, yes even for your personal brand, and come back to those pillars every time you're creating content, presenting yourself or delivering work. If you can consistently hit those pillars every time you do something in your work or personal life, your audience and your customers will learn about you, trust you and ultimately work with you.
“If you can consistently hit those pillars every time you do something in your work or personal life, your audience and your customers will learn about you, trust you and ultimately work with you.”
Meggie: Could you tell me how you prepare for negotiation conversations around salary and promotions?
Marlo: I come with facts and proof. I've found that when having these conversations, 99% of the time with men, it doesn’t matter what a good manager I am, how well I manage difficult personalities in the office etc., it always comes down to how much money you have brought in, managed budgets etc. I prepare such overwhelming evidence of exceeding expectations in my role that it would be completely embarrassing if they didn’t negotiate. AND YET! There's still always something (perhaps my vagina? haha) that isn't quite right...
Meggie: URGH. We all know that a little too well… Could you tell us about someone who has taught you the most about knowing your value in the workplace?
Marlo: The ONLY female manager I've ever had, was the best woman I’ve ever worked with and has become a good friend. she called out the BS when male upper management tried to stifle my growth. She puts herself on the line for her team, and she really made it clear that you need to stand up for what you believe in.
Meggie: Love that! My female colleagues and bosses have been (mostly) game changing inspiring for me too (We won’t mention the one anomaly though….) OK finally, are you reading or listening to anything at the moment?
Marlo: I listen to Shameless every week, it's like reading a fun glossy magazine each week, but in my ears, and about things that are important to me or affect me. I wish I loved/had time to read. I'm halfway through Jane Fonda’s book 'My Life so Far' and can highly recommend it. Next on the list is ‘GreenLights’ by Matthew McConaughey, and David McAllister’s book ‘Soar’.
Meggie: Marlo, thank you so much for chatting with us today! I’m doing your 6 week challenge coming up - can’t wait! If you’d like to join make sure follow Marlo on Instagram at @marlo.grover and @g.pump_fit.
“I prepare such overwhelming evidence of exceeding expectations in my role that it would be completely embarrassing if they didn’t negotiate.”
If you want to bring Marlo’s energy to your career, can we suggest you join us for our next SUCCESS SPRINT? It’s FREE and is a 5-day challenge to help you rock the rest of the year! A 5-minute task a day plus a free 5-minute group coaching call with me is how it works. The results last time were E P I C (think pay rises, credit card fee refunds, job offers…) See you there! Sign up below.