Eileen Wee, 32, is the owner of Touch Communications, a boutique PR and media specialist. She talks to Nanz about what it takes to be a successful small business.
A note from Nanz: “Eileen works from home and she is very mindful of details. While our team was interviewing her, she was serving us cakes , drinks, running up and down her house few times to ensure her helper gets things done. She is a super perfect PR boss. While she was holding a magazine, she turned to one of her client’s ad and made a joke to ensure they have some ëxposure in this shoot. We had a fun time laughing and sharing personal experience about children.”
Tell us about your background.
I graduated with a journalism degree and have over 10 years of experience in several multinational companies where I handled branding, advertising, promotions and corporate communications.
Why did you go into this business? Were you always in this line of work?
In 2007, after spending close to a decade in a corporate environment, I wanted more work-life balance and flexibility as I was trying for a baby. Plus, I was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug and wanted to start my own business.
What is your business about?
I run a boutique PR agency, Touch Communications, specializing in media relations, events and copywriting to help businesses build on their brand equity, strengthen their relationship with the media and create exciting, memorable events that exude that special touch. The media look to Touch Communications as the source for compelling editorial material.
Our area of expertise reaches beyond traditional media and encompasses social media, web development, media training, overseas media junkets, crisis communication, events management and advertising.
What was your best business moment?
There are quite many as I always make it a point to be thankful for accomplishments, no matter how big or small. I will have to say that hiring and growing with my team gives me the best rewards. Also, when clients trust and appreciate the effort that comes from our hearts and are happy with the results. We get a lot of good word of mouth that way.
What was your worst business moment?
Working with people who are rigid and insist on their own methods yet demand different results. It stifles creativity. Also, people who want to win in arguments all the time. Many fail to realize that winning arguments can cost them relationships and in my line of work, relationship-building is key.
Is your husband supportive of you and your business?
Yes, he’s one of my strong pillars of strength, always providing sound advice and a listening ear. He prays daily for me!
What is your typical day like?
I start my work before 8am, clearing emails, speaking with the team, before juggling a series of meetings, overseeing or attending an event and running back to the office to wrap things up. It’s hectic, as I have to manage my household and take care of my young daughter but I’ve learnt to multi-task!
How do you unwind?
I read, travel, go to the spa, dine out with my husband and hang out with friends and our children. Watching the children play together relaxes me and never fails to bring a smile to my face.
What do you do to keep up in your business?
I read and listen a lot. Also, I attend seminars and workshops and gather trends in PR and various industries to provide value add and new insights for my clients.
What is the most important lesson you have learnt as a business woman?
Strength in managing different personalities and situations.
Who inspires you?
My mom who does everything out of love and my pastor who practices what he preaches and has a high level of IQ and EQ!
Could you say some words to encourage women who wants to start their own business?
Always be customer centric. Persevere, keep a fine balance between work and play. Treat everyone with respect. Don’t let criticisms/setbacks destroy your confidence. And keep sowing into people’s lives!
Complete this sentence: A Superwoman is …
…Waiting to be unleashed in everyone of us.
