We recently connected with CAMERON LEE and have shared our conversation below.
CAMERON, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
When I first embarked on building my own business, transitioning from a decade-long career in corporate PR/Marketing to pursue my passion for photography and travel, I encountered significant challenges. The decision to leave the corporate world drew skepticism and negativity from many quarters. Much of my work was showcased on social media, making me a target for naysayers and detractors who questioned my unconventional career shift openly or behind my back. It became evident that people often try to confine others within predefined roles, and stepping out of those boundaries can provoke discomfort and resistance, particularly from those dissatisfied with their own paths. This journey taught me the importance of resilience in the face of skepticism and the necessity of staying true to my passion despite external pressures.
One of my closest friends was actually my biggest hater and consistently hated on what I was doing and trying to build. At one point he actually told me what I was doing is a hobby that is never going to go anywhere. I stopped talking to him after that conversation because I realized it wasn’t healthy to have people in my life that weren’t supporting where I was going.
When you’re fully committed to your pursuit, having a supportive circle becomes crucial. Occasionally, it’s necessary to evaluate relationships and make tough decisions about who stays along for the journey. Recognizing that not everyone is meant to be a permanent fixture in your life is key. Each person enters your life for a purpose, and sometimes their role is fulfilled, prompting the need to gracefully let go and continue progressing forward.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I run a creative PR/Marketing agency called OWC Media Inc where we work with brands and influencers on their pr/marketing needs. My agency specializes in partnerships, and that include partnership between brands, agencies, and influencers. Under my agency, I also have my content creation side of my business where I work as a content creator/influencer in the luxury and travel space.
I’ve been able to carve out a space for my company in this saturated space because no one has my kind of experience. I have over a decade of PR/marketing experience at some major companies before launching my influencer work so I have a 360 approach when it comes to influencer marketing. On the influencer side, I’ve been able to secure brand deals with some of largest luxury brands in the world even when I didn’t have many followers.
My focus has always been on the quality of the work, not the vanity numbers. I’m a frequent guest lecturer at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School on influencer marketing and I see so many people selling marketing courses or influencer ebooks online when they aren’t qualified to do so. I urge anyone to do their research before buying into any of those courses or ebooks.
I also offer one on one consultation with influencers and brands on social media branding and strategy. So if anyone that is interested in leveling up their social media presence, they can book a session with me through my website at www.outwithcameron.com or at my agency’s site www.owcmedia.com
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
#1 Consistency. So many people give up after a few months of not seeing results. Everything is a process. Once you have the right strategy in place, consistency is key to success.
#2 The ability to adapt and evolve. The world is constantly changing and especially in the social media world. You need to learn to adapt to new trends and learn new ways to keep up with where the industry is going. TikTok changed social media and they are the leader in setting trends. Relatability is the key to grow any social media account. Gone are the days are super curated and aesthetically pleasing content, but for people that are still in that luxury space, you need to figure out a balance- such as having Instagram be a branding tool and TikTok is where you get to have fun and acquire new audience.
#3 Professional etiquette- So many people have no idea how to draft a professional pitch email or proper email etiquette when talking to a brand or agency. It often can ruin a business deal if you don’t know how to conduct yourself professionally. Take the time to learn some of these basics and it will make an impact in your professional life.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
I’ve been fortunate to have a dear friend and mentor, Erin, who has played a pivotal role in my life and career for years. During a challenging phase in my career, when I felt stuck in a marketing job that wasn’t the right fit, Erin stepped in and changed the trajectory of my life. She took me under her wing when no one else would, and her belief in me opened doors that had seemed firmly closed.
Erin is not just an exceptional marketing/PR professional; she’s a savvy businessperson with unparalleled expertise in navigating the corporate world. Working alongside her and observing her in action has been nothing short of a masterclass. It’s rare to find someone who not only believes in you but also takes a chance by hiring you to work alongside them. Erin has been a constant source of invaluable advice, guiding me through business negotiations, career transitions, personal relationships, and life’s ups and downs. I owe much of my success and growth to her unwavering support and mentorship..
Contact Info:
- Website: www.outwithcameron.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecameronlee/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronlee/
