Leading From Any Seat: How to Be Influential as a Young Professional

Leadership isn’t defined by your job title—it’s a mindset. And in the fast-paced world of marketing, the ability to lead through ideas, collaboration, and initiative is more important than ever.

This energizing panel brings together three powerhouse speakers in recruiting, coaching, and creative leadership to help you define your influential voice, no matter your role or experience level. Whether you're just entering the workforce or have been building your career for a few years, this event is designed to help you own your space, speak up, and lead with confidence.

Expect real talk, relatable stories, and practical strategies tailored for marketers and creatives who want to grow their impact and lead with authenticity.

Event Highlights:

• Building influence without an executive title
• Breaking stereotypes and challenging assumptions
• Navigating the “doing vs. leading” trap
• Staying authentic while adapting (code-switching awareness)
• Shifting from student mindset to professional initiative
• What recruiters and coaches seek in emerging leaders
• Leading confidently as a young professional
• Real stories and actionable advice from industry experts

Who Should Attend:

• Young professionals navigating early career stages (typically defined as those with less than 10 years of professional experience)
• Marketers, creatives, and communicators curious about how to lead from wherever they are
• Students preparing to enter the workforce

Shari Steinhaus

Professional Recruiter, Resume Writer, and Job Search Strategist with 25+ years of experience. Shari has placed top marketing and creative talent at top-tier organizations nationwide and coached hundreds of professionals to career breakthroughs. Her unique advantage? She knows exactly what hiring managers want because she's been the gatekeeper for over two decades. Her mission: transforming job searches from frustrating to strategic, one compelling narrative at a time.

Connect with Shari here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharisteinhaus/

Amy Vaughan

CEO of Together Digital and award-winning Creative Director with 15+ years of experience. Amy has led campaigns for global brands like Ford, P&G, and Walmart. She now empowers women in digital and coaches leaders to lead with authenticity. Her mission: bold vision, real connection, and purpose-driven innovation.

Connect with Amy here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan/

Jenn Cevasco

Senior Recruiter at Creatives On Call, connecting top talent in marketing and design. With a background in creative project management, agency experience, and property management, Jenn brings a unique blend of creative industry insight and operational know-how. She’s passionate about helping professionals shine and find their next great fit.

Connect with Jenn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-cevasco-b62a196/

The AMA Cincinnati Young Professionals (YP) Community is on a mission to connect, inspire, and elevate the next generation of innovative marketing leaders.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your network, we've got something for everyone! Join us and be part of a vibrant group committed to professional growth, networking and, most importantly, having fun while we're at it.

If you're seeking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or simply meet new people, the AMA Cincinnati Young Professionals Community is your gateway to a brighter professional future.

AMA Cincinnati is built on community. No matter where you are in your career or what area of marketing you specialize in, AMA brings marketers together to build relationships, solve marketplace challenges, and create invaluable networks. W e provide opportunities for marketers and related professionals across industries, businesses, functions and career levels to learn, teach, job search, recruit, network, promote, contribute, and practice.

Host or Publisher AMA Cincinnati Chapter