2025 Influential Women in Business honoree Paige Carter, Chief Business Development Officer for Louisiana Economic Development, shares her insights. Read her profile here.
What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career—and how did you learn it?
“Candor without compassion is cruelty.” I have a very straightforward and transparent leadership style—people know where I am at due to my directness. Balancing the clarity with mindfulness of people’s communication style and preferences allows me to strike a balance to be effective. Ultimately, the goal is effectively communicating with the other person.
What’s one risk you took that changed your trajectory, either professionally or personally?
Get out of your comfort zone. It is easy to stay in the routine you know or the process that is predictable. I have found the biggest difference makers come after trying something new—doing something bigger and different than you’re used to, making the job change, accepting the challenge that seems to far from reality.
How do you stay focused and motivated when things get difficult?
Discipline and commitment to the goal. Remove distractions, prioritize your time and resources, and do not let perfect be the enemy of good.
What’s your personal definition of success—and has it changed over time?
My personal definition of success is rooted in impact and generational change. I have always sought opportunities that allow me to affect the people, the communities, and Louisiana. If I am successful individuals have opportunities they otherwise didn’t have, communities have companies investing that didn’t exist before, and Louisiana looks different from economics, job opportunities, and wealth generation for families.
What’s your go-to way to recharge after a long week?
Spending time with my husband and kids outside. The Saturday morning dream is watching toddlers chase after bubbles while sipping coffee together on our back porch.
What’s one item on your desk (or in your bag) that you can’t live without—and why?
My water bottle! I try to hit 100 ounces of water a day and I can’t go anywhere without it.
What song instantly puts you in a good mood or makes you feel powerful?
“You Say,” by Lauren Daigle
What advice would you give your 25-year-old self—if she’d actually listen?
Not all feedback is equal; seek out other men & women in the arena not those in the cheap seats. You will fail and remember no worthy effort is without error and shortcoming.
