This week on Own It we’re talking to Kelly Long from Manifold. It is a creative experiential marketing firm that aims to create experiences that engage, delight, captivate and inspire people. And inspiring, Kelly certainly is.
Host Christy Hiler and Long talked about her journey, her role models and dug into the topic of the gender gap in agency ownership. Kelly is also a fellow University of Oregon grad, so it is extra special to have her on the show for Christy!
You will love her insights in this episode.
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Mentorship, especially from women in leadership positions, is crucial for inspiring younger generations to pursue leadership roles. Having mentors who believe in you and push you beyond your perceived limits can significantly shape your career and leadership style. Kelly highlights the importance of having people in your life who encourage you and instill confidence.
Building and maintaining strong relationships is paramount in the professional world. These connections can lead to unexpected opportunities, support, and business partnerships. Kelly learned this early in her career and emphasizes that these relationships are still the most important aspect of her work and her agency's success.
Taking risks and not being overly concerned with "failure" is essential for growth and pushing boundaries. What might be perceived as a failure is often a valuable learning experience that makes you stronger and more resilient. The speaker redefines "failure" as "mistakes" and emphasizes the rich lessons that come from them.
True success in business can be measured by more than just financial gains or company size. It includes fostering a positive work environment, valuing employees as individuals, promoting work-life balance, and making a meaningful impact through partnerships and purpose-driven work. Kelly's agency prioritizes being "people first" and defines success by the happiness and respect felt by their team and the quality of their client relationships.
Remaining curious, open-minded, and willing to explore different opportunities is key to a fulfilling career. Don't limit yourself to a predefined path; embrace new experiences, learn from various roles, and recognize that unexpected paths can lead to incredible places, including entrepreneurship.
