One Year In, 20 Years Later

November marks the first anniversary of Cathey Communications. I'm deeply indebted to the clients and partners who believed in me. Southeastern Glass, VPI Advisors, Lawler-Wood, Cloudscaling, Habitat for Humanity, the Historic Tennessee Theatre, and Sperry Van Ness / R.M. Moore are among those whose commitment I am deeply grateful for. Thank you. 

During 20 years in public relations, I've enjoyed the blessing of working with a lot of smart people from a variety of industries, geographies and circumstances. They've taught me important lessons, among them:

1. You can't listen to your clients when you're talking. You'll have plenty of time to show them how smart you are when you do the work.
2. Never fall in love with the sound of the cash register ringing.
3. Make consistent progress. Base hits aren't sexy, but they win championships.
4. Look your clients in the eye and given them your best counsel, even if you think it might get you fired. Unless you're way off base or they're jerks, they'll appreciate it. If you do get fired, it probably wasn't going to work out anyway.
5. Think long term. Build relationships. Keep in touch. People and their dreams will outlast PR campaigns.

Thanks to everyone who has helped make this exceptional year possible. I look forward to exploring the next one together.