We’re Not Afraid to
Shake things up
Because we know real change starts by doing things differently.
We’re Not Afraid to Shake,things up
Because we know real change starts by doing things differently.
Our Mission
We’re on a mission to help Communications executives and their teams elevate their departments’ reputations as critical business advisors.
We partner with you to embrace the critical role you play, educating the executives around you, and doing things differently so you can experience the respect and recognition you deserve – increasing the authority and impact of the communications function.
Our Vision
Together, we’re working to achieve a corporate world where Communicators aren’t only invited but are EXPECTED to act as critical advisors, with an equal share of voice at the decision-making table.
We Go Beyond the Basics of Comms. Strategy Support
We’re not just in the business of Communications strategic plans, counsel and team structure. We’re also in the business of opening the doors for communications teams to fully claim their roles as critical advisors so they can make a massive impact on the business – building authority and recognition for the critical role Communications plays in the organization.
Our approach is rooted in a commitment to learning about your strengths, challenges and areas for growth. From there, we provide personalized guidance to empower your team as critical advisors, helping them execute effective strategy, gain executive-level buy-in (one of the most critical steps in the process), and elevate the authority of the Communications function in the company.
The shift starts with one
leader team member executive company
The shift starts with one leader team member executive company
at a time
Could you be next?
CONSULTING
For Communications leaders whose function isn’t being engaged the way it should be
You know the way Communications is understood and engaged in the organization needs to change.
Shift how the function is positioned and change how you participate in decisions … before they’re made, not just looped in after.
TEAM ENGAGEMENTS
For Communications leaders ready to advance how their team operate
Your team delivers, yet isn’t consistently brought in as advisors… and you know they could bring so much more if they were.
Change how and when your team is engaged in conversations and ensure your team structure supports where the business is going.
RAISE THE TIDE™
For women in Communications looking to grow their career alongside others who get it
You’re ready to operate at a higher level, be recognized for your expertise, and stop figuring it out alone.
Elevate how you think, lead, and advocate for yourself alongside women in Comms who truly get it.
Meet Tara McDonagh
Corporate Communications Strategist & Activist Change Maker & Trailblazer Career Catalyst Coach & Mentor Confidence Cultivator & Industry Leader
Hi
I’m Tara McDonagh.
If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I believe communicators are critical advisors, not only excellent content creators. If you agree, we’ll get along great.
I spent more than 25 years inside large, complex organizations as a communications leader after starting my career in agency environments. I know what it feels like when the function has more to contribute than anyone’s asking for, to overdeliver on the value of communications constantly … and still feel like it’s never enough. To be exceptional at the work, to have a respected role in the organization … and still feel like the business hasn’t fully let you claim the authority you’ve earned.
That experience is the foundation of everything I do now.
Today I advise communications leaders at major organizations on how to elevate the function. The goal isn’t incremental improvement. It’s a different relationship, one where Communications has real authority, standing, and a place at the decision-making table that’s required, not just invited.
Clients describe the shift in terms that go beyond their own careers. One client told me her boss went from thinking communications was helpful when given an assignment, to believing the function is needed to drive the business. Another said she trusted me with things she wouldn’t trust any other consultant with. That’s the standard I hold myself to.
I work alongside you as a partner, helping you and your team get to the bottom of what is and isn’t working so you can step fully into your role as strategic business advisors.
If you’re a communications leader who knows the function is capable of more, and you’re ready to get there… this is the work.
My Approach
I love a good hoodie and some humor – but don’t be fooled – I take excellence seriously.
I’ve helped companies establish or reposition brand presence, get sold, manage change through acquisitions, change strategy or structure, manage business-threatening crises, earn the next round of funding, launch or grow products, go public, and more. I’ve built Comms. teams from scratch and rebuilt department reputations. I’ve both led and advised public relations, internal communications, crisis communications and public affairs teams at Fortune 500 companies and at small startups—and everything in between. I use my unique skills and signature frameworks to achieve lasting change inside the organization while gaining respect for the function as a critical advisor.
How?
I get to know your company, your role, your pain points, and your goals. Together, we’ll peel back the layers holding you and your team back from where it could be so we can develop the right systems and strategies to propel you to long-term success.
The goal is to help you achieve better results through an authentic approach that works, and that might mean making difficult decisions, trying new things, and considering alternative strategies.
If that sounds like what you need, be sure to check out my consulting services, team offers, or the Raise the Tide™ community.
Ready For Communications To Be Engaged Differently
But Not Sure Where to Start?
Let’s talk about where you are, where you want to be,
and how to get there, together.
Level Up Your Inbox
Strategic thinking for communications leaders who are done being the best-kept secret in the company. Don’t worry, I hate spam too. I’ll just share the good stuff.