Hello From the Shadows

It’s an undeniable fact that I’m late to advertising.

The past few months I’ve felt like this fact has been my Achilles heel, especially since a good copywriting book takes time to showcase a curated craft.

I spent these months surrounded by other advertising students, watching to see how they carried themselves and crafted their own work. I wanted to make sure that I wasn’t too soon to get my voice heard before I even really knew what I was talking about – so I listened.

I am by no means a shy person (not many people volunteer to teach an entire cruise ship the Macarena at the age of three) but I wanted to make sure that before I spoke, I had some preliminary knowledge of the craft and culture I cared so much about.

At the time I wasn’t sure if I was doing the right thing, but this week has proven that I was. But I also wasn’t.

I’ve learned that being a watcher and listener is something I’ve learned an immense amount of knowledge through, and also something I want to continue doing. But at the same time, this week taught me the value of making myself heard.

Instead of waiting to raise my hand, I’ve found asking is the best way to get my questions answered. (Duh! It seems so simple).

I’ve also quickly realized how incredibly generous those in the advertising industry can be. I after speaking to a few writers, account managers, and friends, all were willing to give advice on how to genuinely better my book and craft.

My biggest take away from the trip is that there will always be people out there who brush you off, but there are also those who are rooting for you. All you need is a genuine willingness to learn and a hint of persistence.

With that said, below is my biggest take away from Sound Lounge on Monday afternoon:

“Advertising is a network of people who have saved each other’s asses.”

And so far, this seems very reassuringly true. You guys rule.

Mary Beth Carroll