This post is part of a series where we’ll be getting to know members of our outstanding Fascinate Certified Advisor team. Our Certified Advisors are expertly trained to coach individuals and groups on how to use the Fascinate System to improve communication and build better relationships, as well as add unique value by embracing our core message: Different is better than better.
As sales and operations leader, human resources business partner (HRBP), and advisor to C-suite leaders for over 20 years, Melissa Marcelissen discovered the impact of empathy, trust, and inclusion on team performance. An FCA since 2021, Melissa supports corporate leaders through coaching and consulting, and builds team engagement through workshops and speaking engagements.
We wanted to learn a little more about Melissa and how she uses Fascinate in her business.
What value have you received from taking the Fascinate test?
Learning my Archetype and underlying Advantages has helped me embrace how I add value and contribute within teams and organizations, and ultimately put me on the path to create even more impact through my own business. I have been able to leverage what I learned to increase my influence and define my own success while creating real change for my clients and the organizations I work with.
What surprised you most when you discovered your Fascinate Archetype?
Some of the things I had always tried to water down about myself were actually the things people looked to me for. I learned how to stop trying to be what I thought others expected me to be and instead truly value my unique advantages and contributions. I would have never expected that a simple assessment would create the spark that lead me on a journey of true self acceptance and love.
Why did you become an FCA?
My passion and purpose are in the EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) space. I use Fascinate as a tool to start to break down bias’ within teams. Helping individuals value their differences makes it possible for them to truly value the differences in others.
What is your Anthem, and how has it helped you grow your brand and your business?
I create and deliver AMBITIOUS VISION. As The Maestro, I effortlessly gain followership and naturally inspire those around me with my creative ideas and goals. I have been able to assist executive leaders to define their own ambitious vision for their teams, and my Power Advantage helps me co-create actionable strategies with organizations so that they can deliver against their ambitious vision.
Who are your clients? What sectors or geographic locations (if any) do you focus on?
I work with corporate senior leaders and their teams to create workplaces that foster inclusion and belonging. Through workshops, extended engagements and speaking opportunities with individual organizations and leadership conferences, I have been able to deliver the Fascinate Program internationally to hundreds of leaders.
I also run a membership for individual mid-level leaders and aspiring leaders who feel unsupported as they navigate their careers, so they can gain confidence and clarity as they accelerate their success, increase their income and improve their sense of balance. Fascinate, and helping members to leverage their natural advantages is a core focus within the program. Lead Up! currently has members from across Canada and the US.
We had so much fun getting to know Melissa a little better! To learn more about her inclusive leadership work 
