This week on OWN IT, we’re talking to Jolene Delisle of The Working Assembly. She started out wanting to be in journalism, but came into advertising during an internship. She wound up leading creative for a lot of big-hitting advertising and branding shops along the way.
She launched The Working Assembly seven years ago and has flourished as an agency owner. But she also owns an ice cream shop, so we talked about the challenge of owning multiple businesses as well.
Jolene is amazing. We left this conversation inspired and excited. We know you will, too.
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Seeing successful women in leadership roles, especially those who share similar backgrounds, is crucial for inspiring others. Jolene initially aspired to be a journalist because Connie Chung was the only person on television who looked like her and held a respected position. This early exposure shaped her career aspirations, and later, mentors and peers continued to influence her.
Early in her career, Jolene observed a significant drop-off of women in senior roles in advertising agencies, often accompanied by narratives questioning their commitment if they started families. She felt a pressure to choose between career advancement and personal life, a dilemma she didn't want to face. This realization was a significant factor in her decision to seek a different path.
Building and running an agency requires resilience, optimism, proactivity, and self-sufficiency. These traits are essential for navigating the unpredictable nature of the business, which often involves pivoting and adapting to constant changes. Understanding the complexities beyond creative work, such as legal and financial aspects, is also a steep but necessary learning curve.
Instead of viewing success as a zero-sum game, women leaders should focus on collaboration, support, and amplification of each other's efforts. Jolene emphasizes the importance of networks and groups where women can refer business, be allies, and champion each other, fostering a collective strength that benefits everyone in the community.
For those considering agency ownership, Jolene advises acknowledging that it won't be easy, but the challenges make the journey more fulfilling. It's crucial to listen to supportive voices and disregard those who sow doubt or act as contrarians, emphasizing the importance of belief in oneself and the mission.
