Molly McDougal: Why I’ve Stayed

The Karcher Group News

Molly McDougal: Why I’ve Stayed

People often ask why you left your first job out of college, but they don’t often ask why you stayed. So, let me tell you about my journey with The Karcher Group and why I still work here after 8 years.

How it started

In the summer of 2014, I was finishing up my last year in the journalism program at Ohio University, frantically submitting applications for marketing jobs, wondering where I’d be after graduation.

After a few interviews with a small marketing agency in my hometown, I was shocked when they offered me a job without ever meeting me in person. I took the job, sight unseen. In the span of a few days, I graduated college, moved back home and came into the TKG office for the first time, on my first day.

While I came on as a content specialist, learning the ropes of writing for the internet, I quickly realized that at TKG, you are given as much responsibility as you’re willing to take on. With the confidence and support of awesome mentors along the way (I’m looking at you, Darla), I discovered my passion for branding and content strategy through projects for longstanding clients like Rice’s and US Acute Care Solutions.

As a northeast Ohio native, it’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside local business owners to uncover their stories and bring prosperity to a community I love so much. And that sense of community is baked into the culture at TKG.

Why I’ve stayed

For me, it’s important to support a company mission I can stand firmly behind, and I’m grateful TKG and I share a common set of values. When Geoff says we’re a company rooted in people, family and integrity, he means it.

TKG has introduced me to local organizations I’ve become deeply connected to as a volunteer, donor and advocate.

TKG has provided countless opportunities for me to bring in local young people to observe and get excited about a future career in digital marketing.

TKG has asked the difficult questions, listened to feedback and made tough decisions to take better care of employees.

TKG let me work from home when I was expecting my first child and a global pandemic took hold of the world.

Any one of those factors would make me feel good about working for a company. Together, they make for a truly special workplace.

Looking ahead

With 8 years under my belt, I’m thrilled to help celebrate TKG’s 25th year. I’m proud to be part of the company’s history, and I can’t wait to see how we’ll continue to grow together.

Now, as creative director, I have the privilege of working with some of the most talented artists and storytellers, watching their beautiful words and visuals move businesses forward in meaningful ways. I’m grateful for the team. I’m blown away by the talent. I’m excited to see what comes next.

If you’d like to learn more about my journey at TKG, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out today to start a conversation.