15 lessons from 15 years of CAPITAL-e
Fifteen years ago I started CAPITAL-e with a simple wish; I wanted to create an agency that really understood what it was like to be in my position. Something I had never been able to find as a B2B marketing leader working in tech. My agencies had been really good, but not one of them had the empathy for my position that can only be learned by sitting in that seat. A company that thrived by focusing on a great team and culture, where we help our clients become heroes in their businesses by delivering real results through creative and engaging marketing and events, and, to have fun along the way!
A couple of years in, Cara Hamann joined me from Salesforce as part-owner. As we reflect on the journey, what stands out most is just how much it has taught us, about building a business with meaning and purpose, about leadership and resilience, and about embracing the good and bad we’ve experienced along the way.
To celebrate 15 years, we decided to create a list of 15 instincts, insights, and lessons.
Find and invest in a great executive coach, sometimes an outside perspective is exactly what you need to break the loop, find clarity and move forward.
Commit BFHAG (big fat hairy audacious goals) to paper.
Choose language that is positive, intentional and focused on possibility, more “yes, and” than “yes, but” as it shapes culture, strengthens relationships and influences what becomes possible.
Investigate the itches (not an industry term). That nagging feeling in your head or gut that something isn’t quite right, is usually telling you something worth paying attention to.
Sometimes you have to build the plane while you’re flying it. It can be tempting to spend all your time focused on the strategy, to the point where you sacrifice action for planning. Sometimes you just have to roll up your sleeves and do the work and let the action dictate the strategies.
Hire the BEST people.
The CRACKLE. We are always, ALWAYS seeking that little something extra that creates that tingle of electricity you feel when you are surprised and delighted by something. From the clever words in a piece of copy, to an inexplicable vibe in the air at an event, that something is ‘the crackle’ and it is intentional and directed. Go the extra step - find the crackle.
Always be learning. Read, listen and learn constantly. Always be willing to ask for advice and support to find new ways of doing things.
“Don’t read your own press releases, but know deeply how good you are.”
Learn what work to decline. Saying yes to every piece of work, or undercharging doesn't make you a more generous or good person, it just makes the work unsustainable.
Take a month off and see if the engine can run optimally without you, if yes, then we’re on the right track.
Make a “reasons” list for every big decision, when doubt inevitably creeps back in, you can revisit the thinking you’ve already done, regain clarity and conviction, and move forward without wasting time redeciding.
The four-day work week is an ever-evolving operating model (in place since February 2022). Whilst it is a perk that provides flexibility and greater balance, it requires focus, accountability, efficiency, and a team that's committed to ensuring its success.
Enjoy the people you’re surrounded by. When your team still chooses to eat together after spending all day working and travelling together, you know you’ve built something pretty special.
Find a great pair of “event” shoes for long days; future you will thank you.
We hope something here resonates with you, whether you’re building a company, leading a team, or simply figuring things out as you go, like we still are.
