I grew up in southern Indiana. I worked as a family law paralegal for several years before I decided to move to Columbia to attend law school at Mizzou. My husband is a talented photographer.  Our one-year-old son, Cohen, was born the day of my law school graduation. Now, I practice family law with Knight & Salladay and I am co-chair of the Business Forum committee through Women’s Network.

Tana Sanchez Benner, Attorney
Knight & Salladay
573-256-7205 (phone)
573-875-5873 (fax)

www.columbiamolawfirm.com
tana@knightslaw.net

What do you think are the biggest challenges for professional women today? Juggling work and family is incredibly difficult. Finding time to do your job and still be actively involved as a wife and/or mother is a constant struggle.

What is something you wish you could change about yourself? I wish I was a morning person. I think I could get a lot more accomplished if I didn’t love to sleep in so much!

Name one thing not many people know about you. I started playing the piano when I was five-years-old and was actively involved in music through high school. I studied music for my first three years of college, before I got burnt-out and decided to do something different.

What is the best business advice you’ve ever received? Always return phone calls promptly. When you work with high-stress clients, communication is vital.

How would you describe your leadership style? The role of leader is new for me, so I am still working on this. As an employee, I’ve always appreciated detailed instructions for performing tasks correctly. And I love checklists.

Has your career path held surprises along the way? Starting out in law school I was extremely intimidated by the idea of going to court. But I have completely surprised myself by conquering that fear.

What do you do to relax? I play with my son. He can always make me laugh.

What is one personal goal you haven’t yet achieved? I would love to become an accomplished public speaker.

What is your workplace pet peeve? Negativity and complaining.

Who do you consider a career mentor and why? Amy Salladay teaches me something new every day. She has invested so much time and patience in me. I will always be indebted to her.
What is your dream job? This one!
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years – personally and professionally? I hope to implement the perfect time management system, enabling me to have such a successful and efficient law practice that I can afford to take long vacations with my family.

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