Our Impact
Elevating Standards
"As someone who holds themselves to a high standard, I have found that Melissa (Owner, First Things First) has helped raise the bar in several ways. Not only has she helped create a better experience for our clients, but she has also made me a better employee and colleague. As we continue to improve our Client Success department, Melissa has provided valuable feedback and recommendations based on her experience. For example, she has helped improve our Business Review communication and encouraged me to hold myself accountable for internal documentation on processes and procedures, which has helped elevate our department to the next level."
Jake H.
2024
Expertise & Experience
"Melissa (Owner, First Things First) was a huge help when I was implementing a new workflow process within my company. Her expertise and experience were a great benefit and helped us to see things from different points of view. Melissa’s knowledge on business processes gave us the direction we needed to make some difficult decisions. She offered thoughtful and very useful ideas to make our process even more efficient. We would definitely call upon Melissa again in the future if the need should arise."
Barb M.
2023
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Next Steps
“I highly recommend Melissa Hockenberry’s (Owner, First Things First) consulting for anyone who is struggling with understanding the importance of customer experience and determining effective next steps. I was at an impasse with the direction of my department—I was only able to create objectives and a plan to move our business forward in ways that I never knew until receiving Melissa’s guidance. Melissa truly cares about her clients. Her format of coaching is efficient for anyone with a busy schedule, and she is a valuable mentor who offers intellect, vision, strategy, and action steps—all with encouragement and keeping myself accountable to the next steps of my business and personal journey.”
LXS F.
2023
Prepared & Professional
"My career first crossed paths with Melissa Hockenberry (Owner, First Things First) almost 20 years ago. In every role that she has had and with every encounter she has always been the most prepared, professional, upbeat person in the room. She manages to combine a warm, friendly personality with a focus on achieving the goals that have been shared in an incredibly efficient manner. Now that Melissa is piloting her own course I’m excited to be able to work with her and refer others to her as she has always left those involved with her in a much better place than before she arrived."
Steve A.
2023
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Improving Experience & Efficiencies
"Melissa (Owner, First Things First) is a natural born trainer with a wealth of business process knowledge. She brings thoughtful ways to engage team members, varying approaches for different learning styles, and a true passion for helping individuals and organizations succeed. I would highly recommend Melissa for any small business looking to improve customer experience and business efficiencies.”
Kim D.
2023