Reaching New Heights: Leadership Lessons from Tony Nuckolls

In the latest episode of our one-on-one interview series, Gabi Rome had the privilege of hanging out with Tony Nuckolls , an Executive Vice President and thought leader at Rocket Companies ®. With over 28 years at Rocket, Tony's journey showcases the incredible opportunities for career growth and development within the company. Tony is not just a seasoned executive with a proven track record but a beacon of inspiration, embodying the true spirit of leadership. As we delve into this conversation, we uncover profound insights and practical wisdom that illuminate the path of leadership. Here's a sneak peek into some of the most compelling moments from their discussion, capturing the essence of what makes Rocket a unique and rewarding place to build a career.

The Platinum Rule: Treat Others Better Than You Expect to Be Treated

One of the standout points Tony shared, "I think it's important to treat people how you expect to be treated. However, as a leader, you should take it a step further and live the Platinum Rule, which is treating others better than you expect to be treated," Tony explained. This principle is not just a guiding light for leadership at Rocket but a cornerstone of our company culture, influencing how we interact with colleagues, clients, and the broader community. This approach fosters a culture of compassion and mutual respect, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best.

Leadership Is A Journey, Not A Destination

Tony's leadership journey is akin to rock climbing – an apt metaphor he uses to describe the nonlinear path of personal and professional growth. Just as in climbing, where you must reach for the next grip, hold on and sometimes find another route if you fall, leadership requires resilience, adaptability and the courage to venture into the unknown.

"Leadership isn't about reaching the top. It's a combination of finding where you're needed and braving the unknown together," Tony shared. This perspective encourages aspiring leaders to embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. At Rocket, we understand that no career path is ever straight, and we support our team members in navigating their unique journeys, providing the tools and mentorship needed to reach their fullest potential.

Embracing Mistakes As Learning Opportunities

Another key takeaway from Tony's interview is the importance of learning from mistakes. In a culture that allows for failure and continuous learning, Tony emphasizes that making mistakes is an integral part of growth. "I'm the first person to tell you I'm far from perfect. I've probably made more mistakes than almost everyone inside the organization. For me, it's about learning from those mistakes and not repeating them," he candidly revealed.

This mindset not only demystifies the concept of perfection in leadership but also encourages a culture of openness and continuous improvement. By fostering an environment where team members feel safe to take risks and learn from their experiences, Rocket promotes innovation and personal development.

Take Action

Tony's insights offer a glimpse into the compassionate spirit that defines leadership at Rocket Companies. His experiences and philosophies resonate deeply with our core values of growth, well-being and inclusivity. We invite you to dive deeper into this conversation and discover more about what it means to be part of the Rocket team.

Ready to be inspired? Watch the full-length episode with Tony Nuckolls and join us on this journey of leadership and growth. Explore how Rocket Companies is committed to cultivating a culture where every team member can thrive, innovate and reach new heights. Click here to watch now and see how you can be part of a company that values your growth and well-being.

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Written By: Kelsea Wilhelm

Kelsea started at Rocket in October of 2020 and is now a Senior Campaign Manager on the Marketing team in the Detroit office. She also sits on the board of the Team Member Resource Group known as Unstop-able, advocating, supporting and curating a safe space for team members who are differently abled.