Neora’s Amber Olson Rourke: Navigating the Business World with Confidence and Purpose
In the dynamic realm of wellness and beauty, few stories are as inspiring as that of Amber Olson Rourke, co-founder of Neora. Her journey from a twenty-something newcomer in the boardroom to a seasoned entrepreneur offers valuable insights for aspiring business leaders, especially young women looking to make their mark in the corporate world.
Olson Rourke’s path with Neora has been nothing short of remarkable. In just a decade, the company achieved over $2 billion in cumulative sales, a testament to her business acumen and leadership. But success didn’t come without its challenges. Early in her career, Olson Rourke second-guessed her instincts, often deferring to more vocal or experienced colleagues. It was a pattern she soon recognized as detrimental.
“There were so many times where we were sitting at a table and coming up with an idea, and someone who maybe had more experience than me or was more outspoken than me would go one way,” Olson Rourke recalls. “I would just feel in my gut that it wasn’t the right path, but I would let it go and say, ‘They must know better.’” Time and again, she watched as these decisions led to less-than-ideal outcomes.
This realization sparked a turning point in Olson Rourke’s approach to business. She learned to trust her instincts and assert her voice, even when surrounded by more seasoned professionals. Her advice to young women entering the business world is clear and empowering: “Most people will give you your seat at the table, but we have to learn to trust our voice and not assume that somebody else, just because they have more experience or they’re a male or they have a bigger title, knows more than we do.”
Olson Rourke’s success at Neora is built on more than just confidence; it’s rooted in intentional focus and time management. She advocates for being fully present in each moment, whether in a business meeting or spending time with family. This approach allows her to maximize her impact in every situation.
As a working mother, Olson Rourke has mastered balancing professional and personal life. She dismisses the notion of “mom guilt,” instead embracing a mindset of being exactly where she needs to be at any moment. This attitude allows her to fully engage in her work at Neora and equally present with her family during personal time.
Neora’s mission, encapsulated in the motto “Make People Better,” reflects Olson Rourke’s philosophy of helping individuals become their best versions. This ethos extends to the company’s product development, focusing on innovative, multifunctional items that simplify routines while delivering superior results.
Olson Rourke emphasizes the importance of clarity in business objectives for aspiring entrepreneurs. She advises identifying the target audience, understanding their needs, and developing solutions accordingly. Surrounding oneself with intelligent individuals and trusting one’s instincts are crucial to her success.
Mentorship plays a significant role in Olson Rourke’s approach to business growth. She believes in the power of guidance from trusted advisors who can provide effective feedback and help navigate blind spots. Building relationships with mentors possessing diverse strengths and skill sets is, in her view, critical to maximizing one’s effectiveness in any role.
Looking to the future, Olson Rourke recognizes the changing dynamics of consumer behavior. With an increasing preference for online shopping and personalized customer service, Neora is well-positioned to meet these evolving needs. The company excels in providing concierge-level service, guiding customers through their health and wellness journeys with tailored advice and support.
Amber Olson Rourke’s journey with Neora is a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs in the competitive beauty and wellness industry, especially women. Her story underscores the power of self-confidence, intentional focus, and adaptability in business. By staying true to her instincts and values, Olson Rourke has achieved remarkable success and paved the way for a new generation of business leaders ready to make their mark on the world.
