In the spring of 2014, after 14 years working as in-house corporate communications, I did what every seasoned communications professional swears they'll never do — I went back to the agency side. I'll be honest — I never thought I would see the day. "Those days are behind me, that's what communications pros do in the beginning of their careers," I thought. Long story short, I was wrong. I was so impressed by the quality and the caliber of the people I spoke with at Eastwick that here I am, one year later, at age 39, working on the agency side. And you know what? I wouldn't trade it for the world. Here are four reasons to go back to the agency side after you've been in-house for a while.

1. Freshen up your skills.

After 14 years working, for the most part, as a one-woman show running global corporate communications for tech companies, I didn't have exposure to all the outside of the box techniques that were happening on the faster-paced agency side, making me really need to step up. Joining an agency has exposed me to a tremendous amount of new, fresh thinking, and educated me as to all of the communications vehicles that are now available to get the message across — from micro content, to Slideshares, to Flipboard, to the numerous social media platforms that pop up, every day.

2. It keeps you young.

For the first time in my career, I am the "mature person" in the room. I definitely bring the age average up. More junior colleagues are looking to me for guidance, and confidence. They aren't afraid to question anyone or anything, or to challenge ideas if they don't think they make sense. They are fearless. They want to win big and they are willing to fall big in order to do so. This continuously challenges me to up my game in every way.

3. Expand your network.

It is no secret that one of the best parts of working at an agency is the opportunity to expand your professional network. I am exposed to so many industry leaders I would not otherwise have exposure to simply by being an Eastwicker. It is a very privileged position I get to be in, sitting across the table from C-level executives in what are often the most private, and most vulnerable, moments in their careers. I get to help shape the conversations before they hit the street.

4. The communications industry is way more exciting today than it was 14 years ago.

I'm dating myself, but I remember faxing — and even snail-mailing — press releases to media. Back then, print was everything, and the Internet was just a glimmer in the world's eye. Fast forward 14 years, and things are a lot different. What used to be grueling, "five countries in five days" in-person media tours are now phone briefings. Reaching out to reporters means commenting on a post on their Twitter feed versus an article you read in print. Reporters have evolved into bloggers and influencers. Communications is a lot more exciting than it was 14 years ago. By going back to the agency side, I've had a crash course in this, and then some. It has made me a better, more well-rounded communications professional … who thinks outside the box.

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Would you go back to the agency side and, if so, why? Have you moved back and forth throughout your career? What have you learned? Email me at michelle@eastwick.com or join me on Twitter @michellragsdale.

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