In the profession i've chosen and in life, I feel one thing that you can never sacrifice is your social time. Some call it networking; some call it casual drinks; I call it a necessity to ensure absolute sanity. I've been blessed to understand the value of casual drinks and had the luxury of affording to do so. Going out, looking good and feeling good keeps you sharp and what I like to call "in the game". But it also allows you to be an adult, prove to yourself you can have a casual drink (not loser wasted) and talk with a friend/coworker or even a total stranger.
Someone asked me today "how do you network?" It's a valid question about a topic that scares the beejesus out of people. Including me back in the day. I look at it like going to the high school dance. There's always that one girl you want to talk to, but can never muster up the courage to walk over and ask her to dance. You know she likes you; you know she's there hoping you dance with her, yet, there you stand, talking or standing awkwardly . If we never step outside our comfort zone, how will we grow as people?
My advice to this question was don't wait for someone to come talk to you...go find the one you want to talk with and start a conversation - simple right? How about this...It's like that girl/guy at the dance. Don't wait until KC & Jo-Jo "Crazy" comes on to wrap up the dance. Find that person(s) at the mid-point, just as "God must have spent a little more time on you" by NSYNC comes on. When their interest-level in the event at hand is still high and you have the chance to capture their full attention for the remainder of the night.
Our intuition, although hard to trust, is usually giving us that pit-of-your-stomach feeling for a reason...it's time to go after it. So go for it. Especially with something like networking. Everyone does it at certain points of their professional career (even the programmer's/developers who only can speak in binary code), so stop stressing over it and enjoy the idea of infecting someone with your passion.
What does all this mean? Take a chance on yourself. At the end of the day, you'll be a more confident professional and person. Soon someone will be looking at you as the one to approach and infect with their own story.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Here we go 2012...
It's January 1st, 2012. I haven't left the couch since returning from McDonald's this AM - sorry I'm not sorry about eating that garbage. I mentioned in my previous posts that my resolution is to start blogging more. However, I've been facing a conundrum.
I love advertising. I love blogging about advertising, specific ads and originally, my pursuit of a career in the ad business. But now that I have become an employee of the ad industry, I've become busy and lost my drive to blog. Maybe it's the long hours, stressful days, abundance of ping-pong or the fact that the cool stuff we do, I usually can't say anything about until it's already public knowledge. First world problems for sure.
However, I wanted to start the year off with a bang...and the first blog post of 2012.
For years (well since my dad died in '06) I've discovered a need to inspire. To inspire someone to do something for themselves or for others. I've used deep thoughts and big words - words that I could never spell and thoughts I could never duplicate. I never believed some of these posts could inspire anyone. But I've heard that a few of the readers have been somewhat inspired in some form...you're my star pupils.
Recently, a friend has become inspired to blog. I like to think I had something to do with it, but really all I did was encourage. I didn't do it to push them into blogging like the rest of the cool kids (me). I did it because their writing is meaningful and thoughtful. It deserves to be read by the world - even if the world is just a few bored friends...I love you all! But I did it nonetheless and it got me thinking about why I blog.
I blog because it's a way for me to get things down. Things that are in my head and my heart. Things that I can't put down in a journal because the mere thought of me owning a "journal" makes me a little less of a man. I have no intention of this being mainstream, or doing this for a living. I just want a place to put my thoughts into written word, without actually using that prehistoric pen & paper thing.
What this all means. On the first day of 2012, everyone looks for that game changer. That goal or piece of inspiration that is going to "resurrect" their year into the best yet. I say bullshit. I found my inspiration in March of '10 not the first day of '10. Just go out and do the things that make you happy and through that, you will inspire others. But obviously, let's keep it G-rated or at least PG-13...you know what I'm talking about...sicko's.
I love advertising. I love blogging about advertising, specific ads and originally, my pursuit of a career in the ad business. But now that I have become an employee of the ad industry, I've become busy and lost my drive to blog. Maybe it's the long hours, stressful days, abundance of ping-pong or the fact that the cool stuff we do, I usually can't say anything about until it's already public knowledge. First world problems for sure.
However, I wanted to start the year off with a bang...and the first blog post of 2012.
For years (well since my dad died in '06) I've discovered a need to inspire. To inspire someone to do something for themselves or for others. I've used deep thoughts and big words - words that I could never spell and thoughts I could never duplicate. I never believed some of these posts could inspire anyone. But I've heard that a few of the readers have been somewhat inspired in some form...you're my star pupils.
Recently, a friend has become inspired to blog. I like to think I had something to do with it, but really all I did was encourage. I didn't do it to push them into blogging like the rest of the cool kids (me). I did it because their writing is meaningful and thoughtful. It deserves to be read by the world - even if the world is just a few bored friends...I love you all! But I did it nonetheless and it got me thinking about why I blog.
I blog because it's a way for me to get things down. Things that are in my head and my heart. Things that I can't put down in a journal because the mere thought of me owning a "journal" makes me a little less of a man. I have no intention of this being mainstream, or doing this for a living. I just want a place to put my thoughts into written word, without actually using that prehistoric pen & paper thing.
What this all means. On the first day of 2012, everyone looks for that game changer. That goal or piece of inspiration that is going to "resurrect" their year into the best yet. I say bullshit. I found my inspiration in March of '10 not the first day of '10. Just go out and do the things that make you happy and through that, you will inspire others. But obviously, let's keep it G-rated or at least PG-13...you know what I'm talking about...sicko's.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Dear Santa...
What does one ask for when they have everything they need? It sounds pompous to say something like that, but it's true. I love holidays because of many reasons. Let's face it, as adults, we get harder and harder to buy for because we begin to realize "I don't actually need that" - one thing we'll always need...a bag of money!
I usually try to play it cool around holidays. I try not to become a crazed fan that it takes over my personality and I'd be unbearable to be around - maybe I'm unbearable all the time, but F you for thinking that! There are those people (like the Griswolds) who try to let the season give them an out-of-body experience so that everyone around them becomes infected with joyous holiday spirit...sorry, threw up in my mouth. I try to get into them, without letting them become me. It's a casual, cool type.
One thing I do enjoy as an adult is the fact that I can go buy clothes or new shoes 5 days before Christmas and not make them a "gift". Should I? Probably. Did I? Hell no! I can wear them, open them, throw boxes around like it's Christmas, without actually having to wait. Some say I'm impatient...I say I just deserve things immediately. To each their own.
I like that when my mom asks the age old question "Do you have a Christmas list yet" I can answer with conviction and certainty, No. It's a perfect storm because I really don't need anything; yet, I position myself to get the best gift of all...that bag of money I mentioned earlier. It really doesn't get much better.
Yet what has come over me lately is the urge to see kids letters to Santa. Not because I want to critique their spelling or see if they used holiday colored Crayons, I want to because some kids are shockingly great.
With kids getting new toys at earlier ages and technology being a major part of their lives, it becomes harder to buy for them. What do you get the 10 year old with the laptop, iPod touch and DS? (Yup...I said 10 year old) Boring things like clothes or books. But when that same kid doesn't ask for anything more than a t-shirt and book because, "I have everything else, I don't need anymore" I start to wonder...maybe there is hope for the future generations. It's kids like that, who change the lives of the people around them. I know mine has changed just from hearing that story a week ago.
The point of all this. As we grow up and holidays come & go, continue to buy things you want for you. We've all worked hard for them and deserve the spoil ourselves on occasion. But let's not forget about our roots. The stories that grew our hearts 3 sizes to big and kept us up all night with anticipation. Let the holidays consume you to an extent. It will make a holiday, just what it's supposed to be...a memory.
I usually try to play it cool around holidays. I try not to become a crazed fan that it takes over my personality and I'd be unbearable to be around - maybe I'm unbearable all the time, but F you for thinking that! There are those people (like the Griswolds) who try to let the season give them an out-of-body experience so that everyone around them becomes infected with joyous holiday spirit...sorry, threw up in my mouth. I try to get into them, without letting them become me. It's a casual, cool type.
One thing I do enjoy as an adult is the fact that I can go buy clothes or new shoes 5 days before Christmas and not make them a "gift". Should I? Probably. Did I? Hell no! I can wear them, open them, throw boxes around like it's Christmas, without actually having to wait. Some say I'm impatient...I say I just deserve things immediately. To each their own.
I like that when my mom asks the age old question "Do you have a Christmas list yet" I can answer with conviction and certainty, No. It's a perfect storm because I really don't need anything; yet, I position myself to get the best gift of all...that bag of money I mentioned earlier. It really doesn't get much better.
Yet what has come over me lately is the urge to see kids letters to Santa. Not because I want to critique their spelling or see if they used holiday colored Crayons, I want to because some kids are shockingly great.
With kids getting new toys at earlier ages and technology being a major part of their lives, it becomes harder to buy for them. What do you get the 10 year old with the laptop, iPod touch and DS? (Yup...I said 10 year old) Boring things like clothes or books. But when that same kid doesn't ask for anything more than a t-shirt and book because, "I have everything else, I don't need anymore" I start to wonder...maybe there is hope for the future generations. It's kids like that, who change the lives of the people around them. I know mine has changed just from hearing that story a week ago.
The point of all this. As we grow up and holidays come & go, continue to buy things you want for you. We've all worked hard for them and deserve the spoil ourselves on occasion. But let's not forget about our roots. The stories that grew our hearts 3 sizes to big and kept us up all night with anticipation. Let the holidays consume you to an extent. It will make a holiday, just what it's supposed to be...a memory.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Tis the Season...
For all my fans out there (2 maybe 3 of you - mom included), I've found my way back and am devoting my 2012 to working on regular entries now that I am, no more, a "Wannabe Adman"
But with the holidays approaching, I wanted to find the magic and hear the banter. Please, treat yourself.
Many moons ago, I learned the real value of Christmas. The presents are great; the food is coma-inducing; and the guests are usually over served and mouthy. But, it's all of those features that make the holidays what they are.
This year we've decided to not exchange gifts - this does not include my mother as she still spoils the bejesus out of us. We're at an age where whatever we want, we go out and get ourselves. It defeats the purpose of making a list & checking it twice; however, this is the reality we live in. I feel like i'm moving away from being the recipient and more towards becoming Santa himself. I may be a bit more robust than I was in the past, but I don't mean i'm looking more like Santa, i'm feeling more like him. So leave the fat jokes alone...you know who you are.
We did a family trip to Mexico last year and it was a gas. Sun & sand in December, who could complain? But it wasn't the same. There is too much of an adjustment period after you return, that it takes away from the trip you just took.
Regardless, the holiday season comes as fast as it goes. Christmas parties conclude and the realization that the beginning of a new year is knocking at the door begins. It's a time we all enjoy, yet look back on and ask, "where did the time go?"
This year, we're going back to our roots...traditional days and nights, complete with the tinsel, the Yuletide log channel and turkey.
So here's to everything right and wrong that make Christmas, Christmas; here's to a holiday season that allows a drunken night to set the bar for next year; and here's to surrounding ourselves with people we love & who love us. Because, you never know when something's got to give.
But with the holidays approaching, I wanted to find the magic and hear the banter. Please, treat yourself.
Many moons ago, I learned the real value of Christmas. The presents are great; the food is coma-inducing; and the guests are usually over served and mouthy. But, it's all of those features that make the holidays what they are.
This year we've decided to not exchange gifts - this does not include my mother as she still spoils the bejesus out of us. We're at an age where whatever we want, we go out and get ourselves. It defeats the purpose of making a list & checking it twice; however, this is the reality we live in. I feel like i'm moving away from being the recipient and more towards becoming Santa himself. I may be a bit more robust than I was in the past, but I don't mean i'm looking more like Santa, i'm feeling more like him. So leave the fat jokes alone...you know who you are.
We did a family trip to Mexico last year and it was a gas. Sun & sand in December, who could complain? But it wasn't the same. There is too much of an adjustment period after you return, that it takes away from the trip you just took.
Regardless, the holiday season comes as fast as it goes. Christmas parties conclude and the realization that the beginning of a new year is knocking at the door begins. It's a time we all enjoy, yet look back on and ask, "where did the time go?"
This year, we're going back to our roots...traditional days and nights, complete with the tinsel, the Yuletide log channel and turkey.
So here's to everything right and wrong that make Christmas, Christmas; here's to a holiday season that allows a drunken night to set the bar for next year; and here's to surrounding ourselves with people we love & who love us. Because, you never know when something's got to give.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
An Anomaly...
I'm not that conceited to believe that I am so special and great, that I am the anomaly. That would be silly and even if I do stand in front of the mirror explaining to myself how crazy awesome I am, I would never blog about it.
I'm an anomaly because I moved from an iPhone 4 to a Blackberry Bold. You're now saying to yourself "what the hell was he thinking?" and frankly, I figured I would have said that multiple times by now. But I haven't. People who know me, know that i'm Apple through & through...I should actually be getting some sort of commission for the amount of people i've pushed towards Apple products. But I made an executive decision to venture into the dark hole that is Crackberry.
Obviously the browsing, gaming, emailing, applications, etc. are not even in the same category. Apple has a far superior product. Blackberry has continued to remain relevant because of the Blackberry Enterprise Server security capabilities, keyboard and BBM. It's a far better business tool for the suited professional; while the iPhone is better for the jean/converse/hoodie type. I walk the line (thanks for that Johnny Cash) between the two types of professionals. So I figured, go Blackberry for a while, then head back to iPhone when it's a financially achievable option.
Here's what i've found in the 3 weeks since i've switched.
When i'm entranced in my phone and bouncing in & out of crackberriness, I realize more and more that - yes troublesome someone could be so reliant on technology - i'm at least having a connection with another human-being, not just a connection with a 3rd-party application. Hard to hear for those iPhone users I know. I'm sorry...I felt oddly dirty saying that. But it's true. BBM - although exactly the same as the days of MSN and ICQ - is a messaging service; however, it's so much more (spoken like a true Blackberry user).
So as experts say the iPhone is a social-media phenomenon because of its easy connection with apps like Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Linkedin and all the others, it actually lacks true connection of the social kind...a direct conversation. That's a bold statement even for me to digest, but it's a cold hard fact. This doesn't make me sound old does it? Shit.
Nevertheless, the experiment rages on. I'm working hard to type my little heart out and get the most from this Blackberry Bold I now own. Do I miss my iPhone...yes. Do I need my iPhone...surprisingly, no. I'm surviving and thriving without the guilt of going against my beloved Apple.
Besides the iPhone 5 is coming out in June...I'll just get that one and be the coolest kid on the West Coast Express once again!
I'm an anomaly because I moved from an iPhone 4 to a Blackberry Bold. You're now saying to yourself "what the hell was he thinking?" and frankly, I figured I would have said that multiple times by now. But I haven't. People who know me, know that i'm Apple through & through...I should actually be getting some sort of commission for the amount of people i've pushed towards Apple products. But I made an executive decision to venture into the dark hole that is Crackberry.
Obviously the browsing, gaming, emailing, applications, etc. are not even in the same category. Apple has a far superior product. Blackberry has continued to remain relevant because of the Blackberry Enterprise Server security capabilities, keyboard and BBM. It's a far better business tool for the suited professional; while the iPhone is better for the jean/converse/hoodie type. I walk the line (thanks for that Johnny Cash) between the two types of professionals. So I figured, go Blackberry for a while, then head back to iPhone when it's a financially achievable option.
Here's what i've found in the 3 weeks since i've switched.
When i'm entranced in my phone and bouncing in & out of crackberriness, I realize more and more that - yes troublesome someone could be so reliant on technology - i'm at least having a connection with another human-being, not just a connection with a 3rd-party application. Hard to hear for those iPhone users I know. I'm sorry...I felt oddly dirty saying that. But it's true. BBM - although exactly the same as the days of MSN and ICQ - is a messaging service; however, it's so much more (spoken like a true Blackberry user).
So as experts say the iPhone is a social-media phenomenon because of its easy connection with apps like Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Linkedin and all the others, it actually lacks true connection of the social kind...a direct conversation. That's a bold statement even for me to digest, but it's a cold hard fact. This doesn't make me sound old does it? Shit.
Nevertheless, the experiment rages on. I'm working hard to type my little heart out and get the most from this Blackberry Bold I now own. Do I miss my iPhone...yes. Do I need my iPhone...surprisingly, no. I'm surviving and thriving without the guilt of going against my beloved Apple.
Besides the iPhone 5 is coming out in June...I'll just get that one and be the coolest kid on the West Coast Express once again!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Our Definition...
On the eve of 2011, I feel it necessary to be nostalgic and look back. Not just back at the past year - a year filled with incomplete resolutions and failures, coupled with successes and joyous moments - but at a more broad scope of what defines us. It came to me in a dream last night and after I woke up, I had an "ah ha" moment. The type of moment where you feel like what you're sharing with the world will move mountains & solve conflicts; when in reality, it's just another thought, shared with the world wide web, possibly lost in the shuffle of headline news and celebrity gossip.
Social Media is the lifeblood of many. It's a place to collaborate, connect and procrastinate. We use it in every aspects of our lives and as it creeps into our work environment, rules and regulations become more apparent and important. There is much banter about the right things to do on social media and the wrong things. Things that can get you fired, divorced or reprimanded by family/friends. A simple picture of you dancing on a bar four years ago with your BFF's boyfriend could get you all of the repercussions mentioned above.
For instance, you head to the bar and you're on the hunt for the next person to fall in love with. You meet her and have a great time. Whether you woke up alone or with her, you begin the process of adding or figuring out who she is via Facebook. The days of asking for phone numbers have disappeared, much like the land-line phone has. Is it sad? I think it's smart. But there will always be naysayers swearing Facebook isn't that interesting or cool. Sounds like a personal problem to me.
20 years ago, what defined us relied heavily on our work, family and friends. Now, we are defined by our posts, likes and tweets...and I think it's great. Posted pictures define us. Friends we're connected to, define us. Followers and retweets, define us. It has nothing to do with who we are in person and everything to do with who we are online. You hear stories of people who are type A in person, yet type B online. Guys and Gals who have online relationships and real-life relationships that never cross paths. Do I think that last part is great? Absolutely not...but I think it's amazing to see the ways people are using it to benefit themselves.
I had a dream about Social Media. I know, i'm a huge nerd; but, it made me realize, more than ever, that what i'm saying on here or my wall, will define the type of people I can meet, the jobs I could be offered and the places I can live. I'm excited for the changes social media will incorporate in 2011. Finding new ways to help increase our online persona.
What all this means...don't be a naysayer. We'll just talk about you so much on Facebook or Twitter, that by the time you're ready to create a profile, we've already created our own.
Social Media is the lifeblood of many. It's a place to collaborate, connect and procrastinate. We use it in every aspects of our lives and as it creeps into our work environment, rules and regulations become more apparent and important. There is much banter about the right things to do on social media and the wrong things. Things that can get you fired, divorced or reprimanded by family/friends. A simple picture of you dancing on a bar four years ago with your BFF's boyfriend could get you all of the repercussions mentioned above.
For instance, you head to the bar and you're on the hunt for the next person to fall in love with. You meet her and have a great time. Whether you woke up alone or with her, you begin the process of adding or figuring out who she is via Facebook. The days of asking for phone numbers have disappeared, much like the land-line phone has. Is it sad? I think it's smart. But there will always be naysayers swearing Facebook isn't that interesting or cool. Sounds like a personal problem to me.
20 years ago, what defined us relied heavily on our work, family and friends. Now, we are defined by our posts, likes and tweets...and I think it's great. Posted pictures define us. Friends we're connected to, define us. Followers and retweets, define us. It has nothing to do with who we are in person and everything to do with who we are online. You hear stories of people who are type A in person, yet type B online. Guys and Gals who have online relationships and real-life relationships that never cross paths. Do I think that last part is great? Absolutely not...but I think it's amazing to see the ways people are using it to benefit themselves.
I had a dream about Social Media. I know, i'm a huge nerd; but, it made me realize, more than ever, that what i'm saying on here or my wall, will define the type of people I can meet, the jobs I could be offered and the places I can live. I'm excited for the changes social media will incorporate in 2011. Finding new ways to help increase our online persona.
What all this means...don't be a naysayer. We'll just talk about you so much on Facebook or Twitter, that by the time you're ready to create a profile, we've already created our own.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Mad for Mad Men...
For someone like me to blog about advertising and not post about the series is beyond inexcusable.
The show is the shit. It's one of the most entertaining, shocking and angering shows around. The characters have been gradually built up and cut down. If you're going to try and jump into season 4 without knowing the past, stop reading this blog entry and talking to me in general.
Secretly (not so secret now) I idolize Don Draper - minus all the cheating and constant alcohol abuse, which I know, strips him down to just a simple, boring, adulterous man. However, his demeanour, attire and ability to command a room, are the true reasons I idolize him. He's the king of the combover, the power suit and driving while drunk. Would you say I have a slight man-crush...yeah, i'm comfortable enough to say I've got one. Sue me.
I got a late start with Mad Men. I used the power of iTunes to catch me up by buying season's one and two. Seventy dollars later (i'm an HD snob) I was immersed in the beautiful world of 50's and 60's advertising. Complete with big hairdo's, typewriters with typists and when train travel outweighed flights. So it's safe to say for a Generation Y'er like myself, it garnered a few snickers and a few reality checks too. Or is it cheques...ah who cares.
When it became apparent this show would now consume my thoughts, time and apparently my iTunes credits, I was only half way thru episode 1 of season 1. It's true, I fall in love that easily. Good thing I'm not a gambler.
Everything about the show paints a vivid picture of the glory days for agencies. The drinking, constant secretary affairs and of course, the importance of holding a generational brand, such as, Lucky Strike. I'm not a smoker - never have, never will - but the only thing missing from the client list at Sterling, Cooper was a liquor account. However, I see a similar situation as Lucky Strike happening by having Roger handle the account and watch as it slowly dissolves in his hands. The guy is a cunning linguist, fantastic adulterer; yet he lacks the understanding to look beyond his nose and at a bigger picture.
Once season 3 ended, I longed for more. I was shocked at the revelations that occurred, yet I was completely satisfied with Don's choice in women, and new found attitude.
Betty is still a super bitch and even when I see her on awards shows, or ad's for other movies/brands in real life, I want to just give her a good shake. Nothing too hard, just something to jiggle the loose piece in her brain back into place. Yeah Don was not the greatest of men to her, but I know I dated more mature girls in high school. Regardless, I would never hit a woman, but Betty could be the acception.
The show has given me more than roughly forty-eight minutes of entertainment on Sundays. It's given me a new perspective on the way it was done. The real beginning of advertising. I have a new found respect for the veterans in the industry. They lived parts of it and evolved with the times to continue and support the greatness that advertising is today.
What all this means...
If you don't watch the show already, you need to. It's not just another boring, detailed time-piece with no action. It has heart, character and accurate portrayals of everything our grandparents knew. Also, it's got the occasional side-boob, which is a pleasant treat for everyone.
The show is the shit. It's one of the most entertaining, shocking and angering shows around. The characters have been gradually built up and cut down. If you're going to try and jump into season 4 without knowing the past, stop reading this blog entry and talking to me in general.
Secretly (not so secret now) I idolize Don Draper - minus all the cheating and constant alcohol abuse, which I know, strips him down to just a simple, boring, adulterous man. However, his demeanour, attire and ability to command a room, are the true reasons I idolize him. He's the king of the combover, the power suit and driving while drunk. Would you say I have a slight man-crush...yeah, i'm comfortable enough to say I've got one. Sue me.
I got a late start with Mad Men. I used the power of iTunes to catch me up by buying season's one and two. Seventy dollars later (i'm an HD snob) I was immersed in the beautiful world of 50's and 60's advertising. Complete with big hairdo's, typewriters with typists and when train travel outweighed flights. So it's safe to say for a Generation Y'er like myself, it garnered a few snickers and a few reality checks too. Or is it cheques...ah who cares.
When it became apparent this show would now consume my thoughts, time and apparently my iTunes credits, I was only half way thru episode 1 of season 1. It's true, I fall in love that easily. Good thing I'm not a gambler.
Everything about the show paints a vivid picture of the glory days for agencies. The drinking, constant secretary affairs and of course, the importance of holding a generational brand, such as, Lucky Strike. I'm not a smoker - never have, never will - but the only thing missing from the client list at Sterling, Cooper was a liquor account. However, I see a similar situation as Lucky Strike happening by having Roger handle the account and watch as it slowly dissolves in his hands. The guy is a cunning linguist, fantastic adulterer; yet he lacks the understanding to look beyond his nose and at a bigger picture.
Once season 3 ended, I longed for more. I was shocked at the revelations that occurred, yet I was completely satisfied with Don's choice in women, and new found attitude.
Betty is still a super bitch and even when I see her on awards shows, or ad's for other movies/brands in real life, I want to just give her a good shake. Nothing too hard, just something to jiggle the loose piece in her brain back into place. Yeah Don was not the greatest of men to her, but I know I dated more mature girls in high school. Regardless, I would never hit a woman, but Betty could be the acception.
The show has given me more than roughly forty-eight minutes of entertainment on Sundays. It's given me a new perspective on the way it was done. The real beginning of advertising. I have a new found respect for the veterans in the industry. They lived parts of it and evolved with the times to continue and support the greatness that advertising is today.
What all this means...
If you don't watch the show already, you need to. It's not just another boring, detailed time-piece with no action. It has heart, character and accurate portrayals of everything our grandparents knew. Also, it's got the occasional side-boob, which is a pleasant treat for everyone.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Long Overdue...
It's been about 3 months since my last post. A plethora of excuses have accumulated, however, all are just that...excuses. Maybe subconscioustly I dialed it down because I was seeing slight gains in my advances. Maybe it was because of my conference travel schedule - Air Canada Elite Status...biotches! Or maybe, just maybe...it was because I did my best writing when I was frustrated at work. But with blogging sites now blocked, I usually just go on an extended lunch.
But I'm back now...in more ways than one.
Advertising is still my ultimate dream. I've continued to pester those I've met and continued to try and maintain TOMA. Surprisingly, it has worked. There are a few hot irons in the fire and I feel that one of them will happen for me....it's got to. Here's why:
I had a chance to pursue a position with an agency I've grown fond of. The people are great and the position would have been a fantastic fit for my career aspirations. However, I had a grown-up moment. I realized that relationships are more important than self-gain. The people I knew there were influential in many facets of my life and too important to lose. So I took a different approach and introduced them to an equally talented and ambitious candidate.
She has everything - I feel - I bring to the table (probably more, but I'll never admit it) in terms of passion and professionalism, without taking yourself too seriously. It turns out, she was a perfect fit. If that's not good karma then I don't know what is. She has been ever grateful, but needs to realize, I only made an introduction...she did the rest.
So after I got her a new, happy career and still sat in the same position I have been writing about for 8 months, I came to an abrupt conclusion. I finally understood the fascination of Toronto. The biggest brands in the world are there, and I need to be as well. This is now my new, potential adventure.
Finally, I've been moonlighting. I must say, this working after work to try and get better work...is exhausting. However, I feel like we're a sort of an A-Team. Not as much mercenaries as a collection of award winning creative minds...and myself. Nevertheless, I'm learning from the best and I'm learning a ton. I think the greatest thing that has come from this process is that I realized I belong. I belong because of my personality, ideas, and overall passion for what is on the line.
What has this past few months taught me?
It's taught me loving great ads is easy. Loving the process that goes into those ads is where people are tested. It's where people become bitter and inspired. I know I will face trials & tribulations while being a part of the creation; however, I now love the work in general. It's a momentous occasion, but one I needed to understand before I truly began to succeed.
But I'm back now...in more ways than one.
Advertising is still my ultimate dream. I've continued to pester those I've met and continued to try and maintain TOMA. Surprisingly, it has worked. There are a few hot irons in the fire and I feel that one of them will happen for me....it's got to. Here's why:
I had a chance to pursue a position with an agency I've grown fond of. The people are great and the position would have been a fantastic fit for my career aspirations. However, I had a grown-up moment. I realized that relationships are more important than self-gain. The people I knew there were influential in many facets of my life and too important to lose. So I took a different approach and introduced them to an equally talented and ambitious candidate.
She has everything - I feel - I bring to the table (probably more, but I'll never admit it) in terms of passion and professionalism, without taking yourself too seriously. It turns out, she was a perfect fit. If that's not good karma then I don't know what is. She has been ever grateful, but needs to realize, I only made an introduction...she did the rest.
So after I got her a new, happy career and still sat in the same position I have been writing about for 8 months, I came to an abrupt conclusion. I finally understood the fascination of Toronto. The biggest brands in the world are there, and I need to be as well. This is now my new, potential adventure.
Finally, I've been moonlighting. I must say, this working after work to try and get better work...is exhausting. However, I feel like we're a sort of an A-Team. Not as much mercenaries as a collection of award winning creative minds...and myself. Nevertheless, I'm learning from the best and I'm learning a ton. I think the greatest thing that has come from this process is that I realized I belong. I belong because of my personality, ideas, and overall passion for what is on the line.
What has this past few months taught me?
It's taught me loving great ads is easy. Loving the process that goes into those ads is where people are tested. It's where people become bitter and inspired. I know I will face trials & tribulations while being a part of the creation; however, I now love the work in general. It's a momentous occasion, but one I needed to understand before I truly began to succeed.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
A Good Walk Spoiled...
Golf...a game for everyone who's anyone. To be great at it (Tiger, Jack, Arnie etc.) happens to only a handful; but to be good, it takes practice, two beers and a dog at the turn.
It's one of those games that allows complete strangers to spend four hours or longer, together and never search for topics to discuss. It allows a group of friends to play a round, drink a few beers (or a lot depending on how you're playing) and be outside enjoying nature - Goulet.
Golf will always be my vice. My means to put worries and issues behind, and get lost in my swing; lost in the quietness that occurs on a late summer evening when putting out on the shadow-stricken greens. What I find truly amazing is the calm that comes over me when I'm on the course. Obviously the loud cursing when my par putt lips out doesn't help portray this so-called Calm. It's more of an internal calm.
This isn't a post about the greatness of golf. It's about the correlation between one thing and another. For instance: this blog is a correlation between my passion for advertising and hidden passion to write. Golf transcends this passion. Whether it be for sport and nature; or outdoor activity and friends. There is a distinct reason people play the game. And a distinct reason golf continues to be a game where business and pleasure occur simultaneously.
Having worked at the prestigious Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club - 1996 Golf Digest Best New Course in Canada (small plug...free round??) - I've seen business happen on the first tee, the 18th green and on a patio over nachos. To witness this is inspiring and educational. I want to try it for myself.
Here's my pitch to those who read this post:
Man or Woman up (you can play the reds if you want)...play me for a job. If you win, my pestering emails will stop. If you lose, I'd like the opportunity to prove myself on your client service team. We both know I have the passion and drive to succeed in this industry. I'm just looking for a chance and what better way than a casual round of golf to decide my future.
It's one of those games that allows complete strangers to spend four hours or longer, together and never search for topics to discuss. It allows a group of friends to play a round, drink a few beers (or a lot depending on how you're playing) and be outside enjoying nature - Goulet.
Golf will always be my vice. My means to put worries and issues behind, and get lost in my swing; lost in the quietness that occurs on a late summer evening when putting out on the shadow-stricken greens. What I find truly amazing is the calm that comes over me when I'm on the course. Obviously the loud cursing when my par putt lips out doesn't help portray this so-called Calm. It's more of an internal calm.
This isn't a post about the greatness of golf. It's about the correlation between one thing and another. For instance: this blog is a correlation between my passion for advertising and hidden passion to write. Golf transcends this passion. Whether it be for sport and nature; or outdoor activity and friends. There is a distinct reason people play the game. And a distinct reason golf continues to be a game where business and pleasure occur simultaneously.
Having worked at the prestigious Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club - 1996 Golf Digest Best New Course in Canada (small plug...free round??) - I've seen business happen on the first tee, the 18th green and on a patio over nachos. To witness this is inspiring and educational. I want to try it for myself.
Here's my pitch to those who read this post:
Man or Woman up (you can play the reds if you want)...play me for a job. If you win, my pestering emails will stop. If you lose, I'd like the opportunity to prove myself on your client service team. We both know I have the passion and drive to succeed in this industry. I'm just looking for a chance and what better way than a casual round of golf to decide my future.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
One Short Year Ago...
This month, marks a time around a year ago, that I decided to put it all on the line. Throw caution to the wind and start trying to aggregate enough insight, enough nerve and enough relationships to make a run at the advertising job of my dreams.
It all started with one relationship that will continue for years to come...as long as I never become a Habs fan. I learned it's not all sexy and Hollywood. It's tough, it tests yourself and the people close to you; tears relationships apart, but gives you the tools to build them back up and succeed. Great work will be rewarded, while unworthy work, will be dismissed - usually along with the person responsible. Of course, some always squeeze through the cracks and make it by hijacking somebody elses' hard work.
The most important though, the work I have put in, not only sets me apart from the riff-raff that do inhabit most agencies, but sets me apart from the ones also trying to breakthrough.
I've learned so much. I've met so many. I've spent so much on coffee, wine & beer. And now, I'm on the cusp of breaking through - like a duckling from an egg with a bright new world ahead. Is it daunting? Yeah it really is. It's easy to have the right things to say; do the right things to get noticed; but, the hardest question I've been asked successively over the past month is "why will you be good at it?" I really don't know why...I like to think because like all sports greats say "failure is not an option" Although, how will I know my writing will be thorough? My budgeting skills precise? My relationship building strong? My presentation skills engaging?
The answer to this...I don't have an answer (contrary to my mother's belief). But I know this. When I get something, I get something; and I get the Ad industry.
Finally the point to all of this. I feel that my graceful transition into a worthy agency type is due to two people...myself and the Leaf's fan in Gastown. I wouldn't have traded this journey for anything else in the world. The agencies I've seen and the people I've met, give me more hope for the future than anything has.
No wonder it's the hardest industry to get into.
It all started with one relationship that will continue for years to come...as long as I never become a Habs fan. I learned it's not all sexy and Hollywood. It's tough, it tests yourself and the people close to you; tears relationships apart, but gives you the tools to build them back up and succeed. Great work will be rewarded, while unworthy work, will be dismissed - usually along with the person responsible. Of course, some always squeeze through the cracks and make it by hijacking somebody elses' hard work.
The most important though, the work I have put in, not only sets me apart from the riff-raff that do inhabit most agencies, but sets me apart from the ones also trying to breakthrough.
I've learned so much. I've met so many. I've spent so much on coffee, wine & beer. And now, I'm on the cusp of breaking through - like a duckling from an egg with a bright new world ahead. Is it daunting? Yeah it really is. It's easy to have the right things to say; do the right things to get noticed; but, the hardest question I've been asked successively over the past month is "why will you be good at it?" I really don't know why...I like to think because like all sports greats say "failure is not an option" Although, how will I know my writing will be thorough? My budgeting skills precise? My relationship building strong? My presentation skills engaging?
The answer to this...I don't have an answer (contrary to my mother's belief). But I know this. When I get something, I get something; and I get the Ad industry.
Finally the point to all of this. I feel that my graceful transition into a worthy agency type is due to two people...myself and the Leaf's fan in Gastown. I wouldn't have traded this journey for anything else in the world. The agencies I've seen and the people I've met, give me more hope for the future than anything has.
No wonder it's the hardest industry to get into.
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