1. Please share your full name, title, and place of work.
Hi! I’m Mandy Senn-Simmons, Vice President at 6 STRONG MEDIA. My husband and I own a national video production agency, where we help organizations produce high-quality video content. For the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible clients in Chattanooga and across the country.
2. How long have you been a member of PRSA?
I have been a member of PRSA for many years and have enjoyed being part of a community of communications professionals who are passionate about learning, growing, and supporting one another.
3. What is one thing you have gained from your membership, whether professionally or personally?
The relationships. Chattanooga has an incredible communications community, and PRSA has given me the opportunity to connect with talented professionals from a variety of industries. I’ve learned as much from conversations with fellow members as I have from any formal program.
4. What do you enjoy most about working in communications, marketing, or public relations?
I love helping organizations discover and share the stories that make them unique. Every company, nonprofit, and community have something meaningful to say, but sometimes it takes an outside perspective to uncover the message that will truly connect with people. Since our focus is video content, I especially enjoy bringing those stories to life in a way that is authentic, engaging, and memorable. Seeing the impact a video can have on an audience never gets old.
5. What is a piece of career advice you would share with someone entering the profession?
Be yourself! Fight the imposture syndrome! You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room or follow someone else’s path to be successful. Your unique perspective is valuable, and you are enough exactly as you are. Don’t spend your career comparing yourself to others or trying to fit someone else’s definition of success. Also, don’t underestimate the value of relationships. Your reputation and the way you treat people will take you further than any resume ever could.
6. What is your favorite Chattanooga spot for coffee, lunch, or networking?
My favorite spot is Milk & Honey. It’s quirky, has a great menu, and offers plenty of cozy spots for meetings.
7. What is a fun fact that most people would be surprised to learn about you?
I can be an introvert! I’m loud and proud, but people are often surprised to learn that I need a lot of quiet time to recharge. I love people, building relationships, and being involved in my community, but the older I get, the more I’ve come to appreciate the balance between being social and having time to myself.