Born and raised in Baltimore, Amy Elias graduated from Emory University, and went on to amass over 25 years as a marketing and public relations professional, working on behalf of some of the largest companies, corporations, and organizations in the city.
As the President of the PR and marketing firm, Profiles Inc., which has recently been certified by Baltimore City as a women’s business enterprise, Amy used her expertise to craft marketing and promotional campaigns for clients such as the National Aquarium, The American Craft Council, the Baltimore School for the Arts, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, University of Baltimore, Enterprise Homes, and The Y of Central Maryland, and secure news features in publications such as The New York Times, USA Today, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Baltimore Sun, The Baltimore Business Journal, and ESPN Radio.
Amy took time out of her busy schedule to talk to us about her success, the best advice she’s ever been given, and more. Read Amy’s full Q&A 4Her interview below!
Did you ever imagine yourself achieving what you have?
Over the years, my business has evolved. So what I originally envisioned is different than where I am now. In any case, at the time I was confident that I could create and operate a successful business that helped my clients achieve their goals.
What in hindsight would you say you underestimated about your industry or business and why?
What I find most surprising – my interpretation of underestimated – is how fast the transfer of information has occurred. When I first started in business, the fax machine was the shiny new tool. It’s really amazing to see the incredible changes in accessing and sharing information.
What is the best business related advice you have ever been given?
The best business advice, without question, is to listen. Listen to clients, to your co-workers, to your mentors, to your partners.
What do you love most about what you do and why?
What I love most about what I do is working alongside so many young women who are talented, dedicated, smart, and eager to achieve. They are a constant source of inspiration and energy.
If you knew then what you know now, what would you do differently and why?
If I knew then what I know now, I might not have been so confident in my ability to start and grow a business. So, I am glad I didn’t know because I might have been deterred.
When you’re not working how do you like to spend your time?
When I am not working I like to challenge myself athletically. Whether it’s running, cycling, skiing or swimming, I like to test my physical endurance and limits.
How do you define success?
To me, success is waking up in the morning feeling healthy and happy.
If you had to share one final thought with our audience of thousands of women in business, what would it be?
My final thought would be not to shy away from tough challenges; visualize them, face them and meet them.