Offleash Employee Spotlight: Amy McDowell

Account Manager Amy McDowell chats PR advice, prioritizing mental health in the age of remote work, and what a perfect weekend looks like to her. 

What’s your favorite part of working in tech PR, specifically? 
My favorite part about working in tech PR is being on the front lines of today’s most innovative tech, and working with my clients to share their stories to help them stand out in the crowd. 

Any words of advice for folks hoping to get into PR?
Being new to the PR world can be overwhelming. My biggest advice to newcomers is to be curious, ask questions and build your network. Throughout my years in the business I have learned that people are generally more than willing to offer help, whether it’s just a casual conversation, words of advice or an introduction to someone else in the industry. Being open to learning from others in the space is so important and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the advice and encouragement from industry veterans. 

Do you have any tips for making time for mental wellness and avoiding burnout? 
I’ve spent nearly all of my career working remotely, and while the majority of the workforce has recognized the benefits of this workstyle, it also has its challenges. It’s so easy to become fully consumed by your job with the endless stream of communication coming through our phones and laptops at all hours of the day.

I think it’s super important to create an intentional separation between work and personal life. Muting notifications after hours and scheduling a break mid-day, even if it’s just 20-30 minutes to disconnect, get outside and move my body. Keeping up a consistent exercise routine outside of work has helped tremendously, along with making time to do things that keep my mental health in check like reading, yoga and spending quality time with loved ones.

I believe that you perform best at work when you’re taking care of your mental health, and I’m so grateful that this is recognized and made a priority by the leadership team at Offleash.

Do you have a personal mantra, phrase, or philosophy?
I try to focus my energy on the things I can control and remind myself that the rest will usually fall into place.

Describe what a perfect weekend looks like for you. 
I’m a creature of the coast and there is nothing better than a weekend spent by the water enjoying good food and good wine with the people I love most!