In-house is My House
Another amazing visit today at Squarespace. It was really interesting to see an in-house company and the work that a creative opportunities available. First of all the space is amazing, they really take their key elements of design and seemline it throughout their office space. The people seemed so relaxed for being in such a fast paced city and industry. Lindsey, who also chatted with us via Skype in Allen Hall Ad, gave us some insight on the key differences between her time at Droga5 and her time at Squarespace. While she was sharing her personal experiences at the two companies, she noted that working in-house has lead to a better work life balance that she felt can sometimes get lost working in an advertising agency. Other than the lovely insights about working in-house, the folks at Squarespace also gave some comforting anecdotes about non-traditional career trajectories. Most of the folks that talked to us shared that odd non-linear paths to where they are now. This was nice to hear that we do not have to have everything figured out to result in an amazing career path. One of the members on the team even started working in the customer call center at Squarespace and worked his butt off until he made it to the position he wanted. Being surroundeed by so many talents people in the SOJC it can sometimes feel like everyone else already has their entire life figured out, hearing their insights provided me with a big sigh of relief that taking career 180 degree turn arounds are completely okay and can result in some good experiences and opportunities.
After leaving Squarespace I was ready to jump onto the in-house boat. I learned that their are so many opportunities to make creative work outside of agency. Additionally Squarespace demonstrated that the where you start is not necessarily the place you will end up. I think that is something a lot of us forget as we are looking for internships and jobs. As long as you’re hustling and making those connections the path of the unknown can lead to an exciting career.
- Amanda Lucas