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Tracy, Principal / Owner at CEA Strategies: Advize Career Interview
A career journey from journalism to owning a thriving virtual agency, CEA Strategies, is revealed in this interview with a principal.
The interviewee's path highlights the importance of internships and pivoting to find one's passion, emphasizing the need for adaptability, strong communication skills, and continuous learning.
The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, including the loneliness and the immense variety, are candidly discussed.
The discussion also touches upon the unique perspectives gained as a woman in a male-dominated field, and the value of mentorship and networking.
This compelling narrative showcases the exciting possibilities in strategic communications, highlighting entry-level opportunities in agencies and nonprofits, and inspiring aspiring professionals to take risks and pursue their passions.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Tracy Campbell
Principal / Owner
CEA Strategies
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA
Leadership Certification, UCLA Anderson School of Management
Creative Writing, Journalism
Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Entrepreneurship and Business Owner
None Applicable
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Career Path of an Owner at CEA Strategies
Tracy's career journey began in journalism at Cal Poly, but a pivot to public relations at UCLA, followed by agency work in Los Angeles, provided "a broad understanding of the communications function". This experience, combined with entrepreneurial spirit, led to starting their own agency, a stint in corporate communications, and ultimately, the founding of CEA Strategies, focusing on "strategic communications, public relations, engagement, and advocacy" on the central coast.
Main Responsibilities of a Principal Owner at CEA Strategies
As principal and owner of CEA Strategies, a virtual agency, Tracy wears "three hats": new business development, acting as "chief strategist officer" to tailor communication plans for each client, and managing all operations, from billing to subcontractor payments. This multifaceted role showcases the diverse skillset required to successfully lead and grow a virtual business.
A Day In The Life Of A Principal Owner At CEA Strategies
A day for Tracy, Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, is a "challenge and fun" mix of client meetings, networking for new business development, and proposal writing, all while ensuring timely and within-budget project execution for clients. This involves "drafting content," overseeing team deliverables, managing client relationships, and handling the administrative and financial aspects of the agency.
Most Important Skills For A Principal Owner At CEA Strategies
Excellent communication skills—both written and interpersonal—"keeping everybody moving in the same direction"—are crucial, as is the ability to handle a constantly shifting workload and adapt to both short-term and long-term change; this requires flexibility and strategic long-term planning to navigate evolving client needs and market forces.
Favorite Parts of Being an Owner at CEA Strategies
Tracy, Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, thrives on the "variety" and entrepreneurial challenges of running an agency, stating that "the only person that challenges me is me." This constant variety and self-driven growth are key aspects of what Tracy enjoys most about their current role.
Biggest Challenges Faced By A Business Owner At CEA Strategies
Tracy's biggest challenge as a Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies is the inherent loneliness of entrepreneurship, describing it as a "very lonely job" without a traditional team for support. This is mitigated through extensive networking, actively seeking mentorship and advice from their professional network, while also navigating the demands of 24/7 client availability required in their role.
Favorite Parts of Working in the Strategic Communications Industry as an Owner
Tracy, Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, thrives on the "very interesting challenges" presented by clients in strategic communications, leveraging diverse "creative talent" across various disciplines—from crisis communications to graphic design—to craft solutions. The intellectual stimulation and collaboration with exceptional professionals are key aspects of what Tracy enjoys most about the career.
What Type of Person Thrives in a Career According to a Principal Owner at CEA Strategies
To thrive in the industry, a person must be "always curious" about the present and future, readily "adaptable" to constant change while maintaining emotional intelligence, and confident enough to offer perspectives and ask questions. This requires owning one's personal agency and navigating challenges with a calm, thoughtful approach.
What A Principal At CEA Strategies Wishes They Knew Before Communications
Tracy, a Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, advises aspiring professionals to "take risks" and "be curious," continuously learning and asking questions to grow. Furthermore, following one's passion is key to career success, as "if you love what you're doing, it's not work."
Entry-Level Positions for Aspiring Principals and Owners
Tracy, a Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, emphasizes the importance of internships for undergraduates to "learn by doing" and discover their passions. The most beneficial entry-level opportunities are found in public relations or marketing agencies to gain diverse experience quickly, or in mission-driven nonprofits, which offer varied roles and impactful work despite limited financial resources.
Significant Career Lesson From A Principal Owner At CEA Strategies
Tracy, Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, learned a significant career lesson: "you're never alone in the journey," and the importance of seeking help and support from others, rather than trying to "do it all on [one's] own." This realization profoundly impacted both professional and personal success, emphasizing the value of building relationships and asking for assistance.
College Experiences Helping a Principal Owner at CEA Strategies Succeed
Tracy, Principal/Owner at CEA Strategies, emphasizes the critical role of internships in setting up a successful career, stating that "internships...help you learn whether you like and love and have a passion for the work". The advice to pursue "at least two...in different settings" highlights the value of diverse experiences in building a strong resume and portfolio.
How Identity Has Influenced A Principal Owner's Career At CEA Strategies
Early in their career, the professional felt pressure to "be seen but not heard," a common experience for women. Now, they leverage their experience to mentor other women, helping them build confidence and "own their agency" to achieve their full potential in a still uneven playing field.
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