Carlyn Lawson is the COO of Ty Boyd, a leading executive communications company dedicated to transforming the way professionals communicate and connect. With over 22 years of experience in business management and a strong background in accounting, she handles the daily business operations of the company, including financial record keeping, marketing, and sales. From streamlining internal processes to optimizing client experiences, she is referred to by the team as “the glue that holds us together”.
Beyond her operational expertise, Carlyn is also an executive coach and workshop facilitator with a passion for empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Whether spearheading new initiatives, nurturing strategic partnerships, or championing development and culture, she remains dedicated to driving positive change in the workplace. Carlyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the McColl School of Business, recently ranked among the top 1% of small, private business schools by the U.S. News & World Report.
A true heart for people both inside and out of the office, when she’s not working you’ll likely find her with family or supporting charitable organizations locally and on mission trips. Carlyn resides in South Charlotte with her husband and three children.
1. What do you like most about working for Ty Boyd?
The People. Without a doubt it is the passionate, knowledgeable, dedicated team I work with that I love the most.
2. Describe the company in one word or sentence.
Our company marries professionalism and experience with approachability that produces tangible results.
3. What’s the number one thing you’ve learned since being a part of this company?
It is difficult to pick just “one thing” I’ve learned, but if I had to choose just one I’d say the powerful impact of taking the spotlight off of myself and putting it on others. The Boyd family and company teaches “it’s not about you,” and not only do they teach this – they put it into practice each day. This means taking time to know the barista’s name or waiter’s name, stopping to listen and to learn from others, and taking time to congratulate people for accomplishments great & small. When we put the spotlight on those around us, the result is better families, better workplaces, better communities, and a better world. This is powerful stuff!
4. What’s the best story from your time with the company?
I’m not sure I have “stories” as much as day-to-day experiences. The majority of my time at Ty Boyd is in the office – 1727. Hands down, my favorite times at the office are when I’ve been able to hear the heart and passion of Ty Boyd himself. To understand that Ty lived an incredible life with many experiences yet is one of the most humble people I’ve had the opportunity to meet is very inspiring to me. He achieved and accomplished so much in his lifetime– spent time with many famous people, received many awards etc., but desired so deeply to see others succeed and to become the best they can be. My other “best” time is going through ESI myself. Having the chance to dig in and to improve the way I communicate on a daily basis has been invaluable.
5. What was your experience like attending the Excellence in Speaking Institute as a student?
I had no prior public speaking training before attending ESI. Participating in ESI was truly an amazing experience for me personally. I was stretched and challenged in the best of ways. I gained more confidence in my abilities to communicate well and also was made aware of gifts and talents that I had all along, just wasn’t using to their full potential. I’m a big believer in the 3rd half day, because for me, that’s the day everything came together.
6. What should someone expect from going through the course?
They should expect to receive training that is tried and true. The information they will gain is timeless. They should expect to work hard during a course and they should understand if they do their part they will leave changed for the better. They also should expect our utmost attention and excellent service designed to meet specific needs. They should expect for their expectations to be exceeded!
7. What truly makes you different than other companies?
Ty Boyd, Inc. is not just another “communication class.” They have a sincere passion to help others become effective, powerful communicators. They truly care about the outcome and continuing relationship, not as a business “plan.” It’s who they are as people.
8. When you were young did you ever imagine you’d be running the entire operations of a global organization such as Ty Boyd, Inc.?
No, I could not have told you this is where life would take me. I am extremely blessed to have been given this opportunity.
9. Describe yourself in one word or sentence.
I am an excellent communicator with the ability and passion to connect and form relationships with many different types of people in business and the community at large.
10. What are some things you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Time with my family is the priority when I’m not working. I have been married to my college sweetheart, Derek Lawson, for almost 19 years. Derek and I have been blessed with two sons, Anthony & Aden, and one sweet daughter, Ava. We enjoy exploring new places and cities together as a family. I enjoy biking, reading and relaxing (preferably at the beach!).
