Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nancy Fullbright. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nancy, appreciate you joining us today. Alright, so we’d love to hear about how you got your first client or customer. What’s the story?

Last year, like many people in the workforce, I found myself burned out. With the encouragement and support of my spouse, I decided to take the rest of the year off to focus on my health and plan my next move. I didn’t get much time to rest because I quickly landed a couple of clients.

My first client was a friend of mine I first met when she and I volunteered together at a local literacy nonprofit that leads creative writing workshops in Chatham County public middle schools. Helen had been working for years on a novel, and had landed a publisher. Now she needed a publicist, and she turned to me. She either thought a lot of my work or pitied me for up and quitting my regular job!

However, the first client I landed that wasn’t a friend came to me when I began networking and reaching out to people I already knew. A friend suggested I contact Julie, a local attorney who previously ran a residential facility for homeless teens who also consults with nonprofits on legal matters. Since I wanted to tailor my communications and public relations services for nonprofits, my friend thought Julie would be a great contact to have.

I emailed Julie to tell her my idea for my business and she quickly wrote back, saying she needed assistance getting the word out about a press conference for her newly-formed nonprofit. She asked if I could help and I said yes. I’ve continued helping tell the story of Tharros Place, a new nonprofit that will provide services for survivors of human trafficking.

Working with Julie and the Tharros Place team has helped me rediscover my excitement for media relations in the context of nonprofits. I feel so proud to play a small part in helping to get the word out in the community about this necessary service.

Nancy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As a Southerner, I have always been intrigued by storytelling. I know that having stories that resonate is critical for every industry, but especially so for nonprofits. Without stories that resonate, nonprofits won’t be able to obtain grant funding, cultivate donors, recruit volunteers, or garner legislative support. I also know that many nonprofits don’t have the resources to hire a full-time communications person, but maybe they could hire me for a project or on a monthly retainer.

My focus is on nonprofits or for-profits whose values align with my own. I have to believe in what you’re selling or providing in order to promote it. My services include strategy, storytelling and content development, media relations, social media, marketing support, digital newsletters and email marketing, and crisis communications.

My business name, Chickadee Communications, was inspired by my grandmother, who often referred to her grandchildren as her “little chickadees.” I also thought the name was a nod to being woman-owned and is just fun to say! When researching possible names, I discovered that Native Americans believe chickadees are symbolic of hope, good fortune, truth, and bravery. The Cherokee tribe believes that someone with a chickadee totem never lies and makes a trustworthy ally. When I read that, I knew I had hit upon the right name. I will never mislead a client and will always tell the truth, whether they want to hear it or not! They are paying me for my expertise, so it is my job to guide them to the best possible outcome.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

A time when I had to pivot in life occurred when my first marriage ended in divorce. Little girls often dream of having a big wedding, but no one ever dreams of getting divorced! Being divorced before the age of 30 was not what I pictured for myself — and it was not without its share of heartache and sadness — but it showed me that not only does life go on, it gets better.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I think what has helped me build my reputation over time is I mean what I say and I am passionate about my beliefs. I am very fortunate to be able to select my clients and make sure their values align with mine, and I will never knowingly take on a client whose mission isn’t a noble one. I exceed client expectations and will never promise something I know I can’t deliver.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.chickadeecomms.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chickadeecomms/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chickadeecomms
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chickadeecomms