This week on Own It we’re talking to Amanda Lucey from The Partnership. She’s been in that role for almost 13 years and has navigated through both growth and expansion. She came into the agency world from a career in associations, diplomacy and politics.
So her knowledge of that world certainly informs some interesting perspectives on the gender gap in agency ownership, and how we can attack that challenge.
Amanda is so interesting. We learned so much talking to her. We know you will too.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The "Own It" moment is when you realize your dedication and hard work for someone else's brand could be better invested in building your own. This often stems from a desire for flexibility and autonomy, especially when balancing career with personal life goals like starting a family.
Running an agency is fundamentally about relationships, not just marketing or advertising. This philosophy extends to growth strategies, where maintaining connections with former colleagues or partners can lead to unexpected acquisition opportunities. An abundance mindset, believing there's always enough work and opportunity, is crucial for fostering these beneficial relationships and scaling the business.
Starting an agency from scratch often involves personal attachment and ego, which can create blind spots. Acquiring an existing agency, however, offers a more objective, business-focused perspective. Recognizing when an established brand and its legacy are stronger than one's own startup, and stepping aside to leverage that existing strength, is a critical "own it" moment for sustainable growth.
Leading an agency, or any business, means being in the "people business," which can be complex and challenging. However, it also offers immense joy through team development and impactful work. Understanding team dynamics through tools like DISC assessments can enhance communication and team building, while embracing a servant leadership mindset fosters an environment where diverse visions contribute to overall success.
While passion drives many to start a business, the reality involves diverse challenges like HR, taxes, and negotiations, often detracting from the core work. Building a strong support network of mentors and advisors is essential to navigate these complexities and avoid burnout. Maintaining a positive, forward-looking mindset, focusing on the "horizon" rather than immediate difficulties, is crucial for enduring the inevitable highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
