Virtual Book Club Discussion with Greg Demetriou
Hosted by Book Chat Radio
In a recent virtual book club discussion hosted by Book Chat Radio, author Greg Demetriou shared his journey from NYPD detective to CEO and how that path led to the creation of his new book, Ask A CEO: Hints, Tips, and Observations. The discussion touched on key themes from the book, including resilience, leadership, and the power of reinvention.
Resilience and Reinvention
Greg Demetriou’s transition from being an NYPD detective to becoming the CEO of Lorraine Gregory® Communications is a powerful example of resilience and reinvention. After a near-fatal shooting incident abruptly ended his police career, Greg found himself at a life-changing crossroads. Instead of giving in to the challenges, he reinvented himself, channeling his energy into the business world. His journey exemplifies the courage, confidence, and faith required to overcome setbacks and start anew.
When asked how others can find inspiration in his story, Greg emphasized that life’s twists and turns can be daunting, but they also present opportunities. “Courage, confidence, and a good dose of faith lead to transition points. Those attributes form the observation of new opportunities. Faith in yourself makes the first steps possible,” Greg shared. His story encourages readers to embrace change, even when it’s forced upon them, and to believe in their ability to shape new beginnings.
Leadership Lessons
Ask A CEO is packed with valuable leadership lessons drawn from Greg Demetriou’s real-life experiences in the business world. The narratives in the book cover a wide range of topics, from planning and leadership to business development and understanding staff, employees, and clients. Greg’s advice is grounded in practical, hands-on experiences rather than abstract theories.
During the discussion, Greg pointed out that the leadership lessons in his book are applicable to businesses and organizations of all types. He believes that the same principles that apply to running a successful marketing agency can be adapted to any industry. “The chapters are based on very real situations and observations,” Greg said. His insights remind readers that the core elements of effective leadership—planning, communication, and empathy—are universal.
The Role of Writing
Greg Demetriou’s passion for writing has played a significant role in his career and personal brand. Initially, writing was a differentiator for the Lorraine Gregory® Communications brand, helping the company stand out in a competitive market. Over time, Greg’s writing evolved into something more—an opportunity to contribute to business and trade publications.
“I am a writer at heart,” Greg revealed during the discussion. He shared how his talent for writing began in fourth grade, when he realized he had a knack for using words. Though his writing talent lay dormant for decades, it came alive again in the business setting. Greg’s journey highlights the importance of pursuing one’s passions, even if they take time to fully develop.
Challenges of Growing a Business
Growing a small print and mail business into a full-service marketing agency was no easy feat. Greg Demetriou faced numerous challenges along the way, particularly in managing the financial aspects of rapid growth. He shared with the book club how being responsible for the livelihoods of family members who worked for the company fueled his determination to succeed.
Greg emphasized that managing double-digit growth required balancing opportunities, costs, risks, and the potential for further expansion. “Managing growth, although a good problem to have, came with challenges of a financial nature: cash flow, increased payroll, technology, and equipment purchases,” Greg explained. His story serves as a reminder that even success comes with its own set of challenges, and navigating them requires careful planning and a strong mindset.
Mindset: Strategies for Overcoming Challenges
When it comes to overcoming business challenges, Greg Demetriou believes that the right mindset is crucial. One of the key strategies he used was recognizing the importance of seeking expert help. “The recognition that you ‘don’t know what you don’t know’ opens the door to seeking expert help,” Greg said. He stressed the value of consulting with accountants, attorneys, and business coaches to formulate effective strategies.
In addition to seeking expert advice, Greg also created an advisory board of business professionals who could provide guidance on critical decisions. This approach allowed him to benefit from the experience of others while keeping the company on the right track. His story underscores the importance of humility and a willingness to learn from others.
Human-Centered Approach
Throughout his career, Greg Demetriou has emphasized a common-sense, human approach to business issues. During the book club discussion, he highlighted the importance of balancing work and personal life. “Life happens in spite of work,” Greg said, explaining that he has always communicated to his staff that family and outside obligations should not be ignored for the sake of work.
Greg’s human-centered approach encourages flexibility and understanding in the workplace, allowing employees to adjust their schedules as needed, as long as the client’s needs are met. This perspective is especially relevant in today’s business world, where maintaining a healthy work-life balance is becoming increasingly important. Greg’s approach demonstrates that successful businesses can thrive while still prioritizing the well-being of their employees.
Influence of Other CEOs
Greg Demetriou’s interactions with other CEOs have had a profound influence on his business practices and philosophies. The Ask A CEO book draws heavily from the hundreds of interviews Greg has conducted over the years. In fact, his Ask A CEO Interview Series was filmed and produced in-house at LGC Studios and distributed on several streaming platforms.
“There was always a valuable lesson to learn from other CEOs and their experience in the corner office,” Greg said. By listening to the insights of other leaders, Greg has been able to refine his own approach to business and leadership. His willingness to learn from others is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared wisdom.
Conclusion
Greg Demetriou’s journey from NYPD detective to successful CEO and author is an inspiring story of resilience, reinvention, and the power of human connection. His book, Ask A CEO: Hints, Tips, and Observations, offers valuable insights for anyone looking to grow as a leader, overcome challenges, and navigate the complexities of business.
As Greg shared during the virtual book club discussion, the key to success lies in balancing courage with humility, seeking guidance when needed, and staying true to one’s values. His story encourages all of us to embrace change, pursue our passions, and never stop learning from the experiences of others.
For more insights from Greg Demetriou, explore Ask A CEO: Hints, Tips, and Observations and stay tuned for future interviews and content on the Ask A CEO Interview Series.
