Tyler Easterling has been working in
advertising agencies since she was 23 and a master's student. Now, she's worked her way up to President and
COO of The Brandon Agency, a full-service
marketing firm in Charleston, South Carolina, while also making time to raise her two daughters and read... a lot.
Recently, she shared her proudest career accomplishment, where she seeks advice, and what she does to ensure she's keeping a work-life balance. Then, she shared her no. 1 tip for women who want to build
successful careers like hers.
Fairygodboss of the Week: Tyler Easterling
President and COO of The Brandon Agency
Charleston, South Carolina
Tell us a little about your career. How did you get to where you are now?
I have been working in advertising agencies since I was 23. I had to do a practicum as part of my master’s program through the University of South Carolina, and this placed me at WestWayne in Tampa as an account coordinator. From that point on, I was hooked!
What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?
I became the President of The Brandon Agency at a fairly young age, and it’s a feat I take pride in.
What is a challenge that you've faced and overcome?
Many times in my career, I have had to manage and lead people that probably should have been my boss. I guess you would have to ask them, but I think I have been able to build cohesive, strong, independent teams.
Who is YOUR Fairygodboss? and Why?
My college roommate, Jessica. She’s always been my go-to throughout my career when I have had to make a tough decision or needed advice. Even though we live far apart, she gets me and knows exactly what I need to hear. She is a
strong woman who has chased her dreams and continues to challenge me to do the same.
What do you do when you're not working?
I spend a lot of time with my husband and two girls. We love being outside—going to amusement parks or attractions, going to the beach and pool, riding bikes and grilling out.
If you could have dinner with one famous person - dead or alive - who would it be?
Dolly Parton!
Lightning Round: What is your karaoke song? The Alison Krauss version of "When You Say Nothing At All."
Lightning Round: What is your favorite movie?
“Pretty Woman.”
Lightning Round: What book would you bring with you on a desert island?
I love to read! My favorite “get lost in the moment” book is “Palindrome” by Stuart Woods.
Lightning Round: What is your shopping vice? What would you buy if you won the lottery?
I love to plan trips, and I am always thinking about the next one I'm going to take. If I won the lottery, I would buy a fantastic trip for my whole family.
What is the #1 career tip you'd like to share with other women who want to have successful careers like you?
Show up. Put your best foot forward all the time—work harder than others, be on time, be prepared, dress the part, have an opinion and CARE!
Why do you love where you work?
I am blessed that both my clients and agency teammates are smart, creative and fun people who share my same desire to do great work that gets results.
Fairygodboss is all about women helping other women - so each week, we celebrate a woman who made a difference in another woman’s career. Is there a woman who has made a difference in your career? Celebrate her and thank her by nominating her here.