Avil Beckford

Introduce yourself to our audience. Tell us who you are and what you are currently focused on.

I am the founder of The Invisible Mentor, the Art of Learning Leadership Academy, and The One Problem podcast. A big focus for me is teaching leaders how to read strategically instead of sequentially, so they read to learn what they need to know. This helps them save time and can build reading into their day. I also have a membership site where I offer Bookish Notes, which are book summaries on steroids.

Tell us about your favorite Ellevate Network memory or success story. Why are you a member?

Recently, someone told me she still remembers a workshop I hosted two years ago. That made me smile. This tells me the impact I’m having. A few years ago, I had to go to Dallas for a conference. I didn’t know anyone in Dallas, so I asked HQ if anyone would be willing to meet with me. They organized it for me and I met the Chapter president for breakfast. I’ve met many people in Ellevate who have now become friends. Another thing I like about the organization is that they listen to what you have to say. And it has given me many opportunities to gain visibility

How would you define your professional mission?

My mission is to get more people reading, so they can come up with creative ideas to tackle big problems. Reading books across disciplines and genres increases your creativity.

What qualities does it take for someone to be successful in your line of work?

Develop your expertise, stay current, and innovate. This applies to other professions, too.

What is one of your most memorable career accomplishments?

Writing the book Leadership Reading: Spilling the Tea on How Top Leaders Read. It captures what I teach.

What are some career challenges on your radar?

It’s always a challenge to provide a service that people think is a nice-to-have and not a necessity. You always have to educate, so they see how it can benefit them.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I get to read lots of books for my membership site.

What is it about your job that makes you feel it’s the right fit for you?

Reading is one of my passions and being able to incorporate it into both my personal and professional lives is a simple pleasure.

Who are your role models?

My best role models have been the books I read. I find inspiration in all stories.

What is your morning ritual?

I read the Bible, and then I meditate. And I often visualize how I want my day to unfold. I do some stretching.