We’re spotlighting our Edelman Culture Champions, individuals recognized by their peers for exceptional dedication, positivity, and contributions to fostering a supportive workplace environment. These champions play a pivotal role in cultivating a culture where every voice is heard and valued. This edition of Inside Edelman features profiles of these outstanding colleagues from our U.S. offices, showcasing their efforts to uphold Edelman’s values of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).
Tell us about your Edelman journey.
I still remember a LinkedIn message from Liz Barenholtz almost 7 years ago. Something like, “At Edelman, you might write a CEO speech, create an economic development plan for a city, launch an integrated marketing campaign for a startup.” A broader set of solutions than you typically see at an agency. And her message has proven true. My strategy team has led over 100 projects over the years – across non-profits, tech, food and beverage, financial services. And in my mind, I have a trophy case of campaigns and narratives.
You were nominated for Culture Champion by your colleagues – how do you foster a collaborative and respectful culture within your team?
Ask for help. I read a study that “asking for help” rather than “offering to help” drives more collaboration. You’d think the opposite to be true. But people who have immense expertise are often happy, delighted even, to share their gift with others.
How does your personal background play a role in your professional life?
Even as a kid, I’ve always loved ads, brands, magazines, pop culture. As a parent, it’s motivating to point out to my 7 year-old son how we impact culture – my company worked on this Super Bowl spot, my office launched this new sports drink, my coworker produced this event.
When you think about the future of Edelman, what does it look like for you?
I feel like there is a sense of optimism, with new wins and momentum at Edelman. As for me personally, I don’t make career plans. If at every day, project, team, I’m having fun and learning something new, I’ll see where it takes me.
How do you stay engaged with colleagues who work on a different team or in a different part of the business? Why is it important to make these outside connections?
With the limited time I have on earth, I want to have a good time. I want to make friends, have inside jokes, help make someone’s day.
As for how to engage with colleagues, I think it takes a bit of boldness. I once read better conversations start from making a bold statement rather than asking a general question. Someone who leaves a movie theater and declares to the group, “That’s the worst movie I’ve ever seen, and I’ll fight anyone who disagrees!” is more likely to start a robust conversation than someone who benignly asks, “What’d everyone think of the movie?”
Takes a bit of putting oneself out there to make connections ;)
Tara Hagan is a Senior Vice President on the Social Strategy team based in New York.
