As a leader, Susanne Evens believes that you have a responsibility to talk less, listen more and be authentic. “As a leader, your job is to pay attention to what other people say,” she said. “Show you’re listening by acting on what people tell you and gain their trust by giving them the credit while helping them achieve their goals.”
As the founder and CEO of AAA Translation, Inc., she has embraced listening more and authenticity to garner exceptional growth for the company, its employees and clients. AAA Translation, Inc. employs global solution creators who provide translation, localization and inspiring content to tap into local markets faster. AAA Translation, Inc., caters to clients who seek out success in getting a message, product or service to the right people at the right time in new global content environments.
“We work closely with clients to get the true meaning of their brand and company and then frame that message for new international markets,” said Evens. Launched in 2005, Evens found inspiration to take the plunge into entrepreneurship from her mother’s spirit. As a German immigrant with dual citizenship who has permanently made her home in St. Louis since 1992, Evens has grown AAA Translation into a global organization with far reaching impact in international markets.
“Susanne epitomizes the American dream, coming to this country and founding a very successful company,” said her staff. “Just as she is passionately committed to the betterment of her industry, Susanne is equally passionate about staying involved in her community.”
Evens serves on the German American Heritage Society board, the Explore St. Louis Multicultural Committee and the advisory board of Enterprising Women Magazine. She was named an Enterprising Woman of the Year in 2021 for businesses with revenues up to $1 million.
She credits her success to leading with integrity. “Honesty and integrity are at the core of how we treat our clients, translators and team members,” she said. “Mistakes are a part of life and if we don’t fail, we don’t learn.”
That’s why Evens is described as a leader who is open to pivoting and adjusting. In 2020, the company partnered with an audio-visual provider to revolutionize the way global teams meet and communicate. “Amid the pandemic, organizations all over the world have turned to the translation company for help,” said Evens.
For her willingness to adapt to change and support global communication, Evens has been named a Titan.
