Janet Kraus joins Dialogue’s Advisory Board

Have you met the newest member of Dialogue’s Advisory Board yet? I’d like to introduce you to Janet Kraus. I am making a formal introduction to you, the reader of this post, because I honestly hope that you’ll meet her in person one day. She’s a dynamic, engaging, and effervescent package of brains and positive energy with a smile and laugh that will light up a room.

I first met Janet about five years ago in the lobby of the Westin Copley for my final round interview at Circles.  What I thought would be the most nerve-wracking interview of my life turned out to be a fun conversation about life, my personal values, and at some point in the discussion, the job itself. I was hooked. I had to work for Janet and her company.

I worked for Janet (indirectly and directly) at both Circles and Spire, and when leaving Spire about 10 months ago, I said to myself, “How can I convince her to give me some  of her great advice, for free (ok, sort of), on a regular basis?”  Simple. I asked her to be on my board  :-)

Janet has this way of connecting with people, teaching them and inspiring them. So I hope to pass on some of her insight to you, the reader, the client, the friend, the business colleague. So, without further ado…… welcome Janet!!

Janet Kraus, CEO and Co-Founder, Spire

As CEO, Janet drives Spire’s vision and culture. She came to Spire by way of Circles (the leading provider of concierge services), the company she co-founded with Kathy Sherbrooke and recently sold to Sodexho Alliance.  With Circles, she was a finalist for the 2003 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award and was recognized as one of Boston Business Journal’s Top 40 under 40. Janet oversaw Circle’s growth strategy, including the creation and ultimate spin-off of Spire as a stand-alone company. Prior to co-founding Circles, she served as the Director of Values and Vision for The Body Shop.

Janet is an adventure-seeking traveler and a family oriented home-girl. She loves exploring places and cultures from Turkey to Brazil to Bora Bora… but she is just as happy practicing yoga or hanging out at her summer home on Cape Cod with her twin baby girls, her husband, family and friends, and dog Mara. She is also committed to giving back to the community and serves on the board of Big Sister and The Capital Network.

Hometown: West Hartford, CT

Recommended Reading: Hot, Flat and Crowded

How I relax: Sit on the floor with my  twins and just watch them grow .. . .

Words to Live By:  Learning is the key to growing . . .and listening well is the key to learning . . .So, keep in mind, You have two ears and one mouth for a reason.  You should listen twice as much as you talk