Part Five: Agency Life: Negotiating My Worth and Growing My Skills
My journey into the world of agency life began when I joined a tech company as a Strategic Relationship Manager. It was a leap into a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment where I was tasked with managing white-label accounts and working alongside engineers, designers, and strategists. The experience was as challenging as it was rewarding, offering lessons that would help shape my professional path and entrepreneurial ventures for years to come.
Stepping Into Agency Life
Agency life is often described as a whirlwind, and for good reason. It’s a world where tight deadlines, creative problem-solving, and constant collaboration are the norm. From day one, I was immersed in projects that required balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders, keeping up with rapidly evolving technology, and ensuring that client expectations were not just met but exceeded.
One of my primary responsibilities was managing white-label accounts—products and services that were rebranded and customized for different clients. This required a deep understanding of each client’s unique goals and challenges, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with internal teams to deliver tailored solutions.
Working with such a talented group of professionals was both inspiring and humbling. I collaborated closely with engineers who brought technical expertise, designers who turned concepts into visually stunning realities, and strategists who ensured everything aligned with the big picture. It was a crash course in teamwork, and it taught me the value of leveraging diverse skill sets to achieve a common goal.
Learning the Art of Negotiation
One of the most pivotal moments in this role came during salary negotiations. When it was time to discuss compensation, I decided to take a bold stance. I knew my worth and the value I brought to the table, and I wasn’t afraid to advocate for myself.
Negotiations went back and forth, with the company initially offering less than what I felt I deserved. It was a nerve-wracking process, but I stood firm. Finally, they came back with the words I had been waiting for: “Okay, you got it.”
That moment was a turning point in my career. It wasn’t just about the money—it was about affirming my value and gaining the confidence to stand up for myself in professional settings. Negotiating successfully reinforced my belief that self-advocacy is a crucial skill, one that has served me well in every role I’ve taken on since.
Thriving in a Tech-Driven Environment
Working on the agency side was a unique experience, one that provided constant opportunities for learning and growth. The pace was fast, and innovation was a given. Every day brought new challenges, whether it was adapting to the latest tools and platforms or finding creative ways to solve complex problems.
This environment also encouraged a mindset of experimentation. We were constantly testing new strategies, analyzing data, and iterating on what worked. Failure wasn’t seen as a setback but as a stepping stone to better solutions. This approach to problem-solving resonated with me and became a core part of how I approach challenges in my own business today.
Balancing Career and Personal Growth
While I was thriving professionally, this period of my life was also marked by personal milestones. I became pregnant with twins during my time at the company, which added a new layer of complexity to my career. Pregnancy, especially with twins, was physically demanding, and the commute into the city became increasingly challenging as my pregnancy progressed.
Despite the difficulties, I was determined to give my best to both my work and my growing family. Ultimately, the demands of the job and the physical toll of pregnancy led me to step away. While leaving was bittersweet, it was a decision rooted in prioritizing my health and the well-being of my family.
Lessons Learned and Skills Honed
Looking back, my time in agency life taught me invaluable lessons that I carry with me to this day.
1. The Power of Collaboration: Working with cross-functional teams taught me the importance of communication, adaptability, and mutual respect.
2. The Value of Advocacy: Negotiating my salary reinforced the importance of knowing and standing up for my worth.
3. The Role of Innovation: Operating in a tech-driven environment showed me how embracing change and experimentation can lead to better results.
4. Balancing Priorities: Navigating the demands of a challenging job while preparing for motherhood taught me the importance of setting boundaries and making intentional choices.
These lessons not only shaped my career but also laid the groundwork for my transition into entrepreneurship.
Carrying It Forward
When I look at the work I do today as the head of Chabot Business Solutions, I see the influence of my agency life experiences in everything from how I manage my team to how I approach client relationships. The skills I honed in collaboration, strategy, and negotiation have become integral to my business, and the lessons I learned about adaptability and innovation continue to guide me as I help other businesses thrive.
A Personal Note
Hi, I’m Alyx—a mom, wife, and the proud owner of Chabot Business Solutions. My journey through agency life was a defining chapter in my career, one that taught me the importance of self-advocacy, collaboration, and embracing change. Whether you’re navigating a challenging role, negotiating your worth, or simply looking for inspiration, I’d love to connect. Let’s grab a coffee or tea and share stories about growth, resilience, and what drives us forward.