From agency visits to museums, award shows to panels, this week was one whirlwind of an experience. New York City is captivating, and big things are in store for both my peers and the future of the industry. Here are my 5 key takeaways from the trip.
- You have to be uncomfortable to make any of it better.
Change isn’t easy. It demands courage and conviction. Advertising attracts ambitious people; remember why you got into the industry in the first place. - Closed mouths don’t get fed.
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re worth. It’s a value exchange, and they’re not going to rescind the offer just because you asked for more money. Check out Glassdoor or ask your coworkers for a frame of reference. - Failure is a part of the success track.
I can’t count how many different iterations of this advice I heard this week. Turn your L’s into lessons. If you stumble, you’ll just get up stronger. Make new mistakes always. And remember, just because you failed does not mean you’re a failure. The best ideas come out of failure – keep sifting through the rubbish until you find that key insight. - Understand your experiences.
Leverage data and facts to craft a story. Make your advertising fulfill a need. Think about your experiences and place them in context, because you can reach any audience if you have empathy and consider different perspectives. - Ultimately, it’s about the work.
It’s easy to get caught up in the smoke and mirrors of trendy office spaces and endless snacks, but what’s more important to consider is the work. Is this agency making work they’re proud of? Are they making work you wish you had done? If not, get out.
Sam Coffaro
05.14.18