Celebrating 45 Years with 45 Lessons | Jeremy Dicken
From his early days working in the field to his current role as Vice President of FED Design/Builders, Jeremy Dicken has built his career one lesson at a time. His journey is proof that leadership isn’t just about titles. It’s about hard work, personal growth, and a relentless commitment to doing things right.
1. Personal Growth Starts with Self-Improvement
“If you’re not trying to improve yourself and become the best version of who you can be, don’t expect others to follow you.” Jeremy knows leadership starts with the person in the mirror. He’s seen firsthand that those who lead by example are the ones people respect and trust.
2. Teamwork Beats Individual Efforts Every Time
Over the years, Jeremy has learned that the best solutions are built together. “Tackling issues as a team always leads to better outcomes than trying to handle them alone.” Jeremy understands that collaboration creates strength.
3. Visualization Is a Superpower
A pivotal moment in Jeremy’s career came when he was a site supervisor in Chicago. Given just six weeks to secure a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, the odds were against him. As Jeremy said, “I believed it could be done. I visualized every step, and it happened.” Against the clock, he made it work, allowing the client to move in on time and start selling. That experience taught him that you’re already halfway there when you can clearly picture a goal.
4. Understanding Your Client’s Needs is Paramount
Through years of experience, Jeremy has learned a simple truth: “They are no different from me; they just want the very best solution in the most cost-effective way possible.”
5. Henry Ford Said it Best
Jeremy’s favorite quote is: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, either way you’re right.” For him, mindset is everything. Doubt your abilities, and you’ll prove yourself right. Believe in your success, and you’ll make it happen
6. The Hardest Worker in the Room Sets the Standard
Jeremy’s advice to his younger self is simple: “Keep getting better and always strive to be the hardest worker in the room.” He’s learned that while talent matters, effort and attitude are what truly set you apart.
7. Communication Is a Skill You Never Stop Improving
For Jeremy, communication isn’t something you master once. It’s a skill you work on daily. “I’ve spent years learning to talk with clients, understand their needs, and deliver clear, honest solutions. But I know there’s always room to get better.” Jeremy has seen firsthand that listening more than speaking, asking the right questions, and staying open to feedback turn good communication into great relationships.
8. Integrity Is the Foundation of Every Relationship
Jeremy has always prioritized integrity in client interactions. “You can’t fake integrity. It’s either there or not, and people know the difference.” This focus has helped him build strong, long-term relationships.
“You can’t fake integrity. It’s either there or not, and people know the difference.”
9. Confidence Comes from Experience, Not Titles
Jeremy has learned that leadership isn’t about job titles. It’s about earning your team’s and clients’ respect by showing up, staying consistent, and never hesitating to take on tough challenges.
10. You Don’t Need Every Answer, Just a Willingness to Learn
Jeremy knows success isn’t about having all the answers from the start. It’s about showing up, putting in the effort, and using your current knowledge to create solutions. “Hard work and common sense will take you a long way,” he says. Jeremy has built a career defined by growth by staying curious, asking questions, and never being afraid to learn something new.
Closing Thought:
Jeremy Dicken’s career is proof that leadership is built, not given. From fieldwork to the executive team, he’s earned his place through integrity, teamwork, and relentless personal growth. As we continue our 45 Years, 45 Lessons series, Jeremy’s insights remind us that the best leaders never stop learning.
