When I leapt into the advertising agency world at Dunn&Co. three weeks ago, I really didn’t know what to expect. Coming from an in-house marketing team, where I pretty much knew what each day would have in store, agency life so far has been something of an awakening.
Here are five things I’ve learned:
My Brain Hurts
In a good way. An incredible way, actually. Every day presents new challenges, the lay-awake-at-night kind that you want to throw yourself into wholeheartedly. I’m inspired by the people around me, and the knowledge they have to share. It’s A LOT to take in – hence the brain pain – but it’s so fulfilling.
A Human Touch is Best
The art of good old fashioned, face-to-face communication is essential when it comes to interacting within the agency, and with our clients. This is one of the things our Group Account Director, Jamie, told me on my first day. Sure, we love the convenience of email and iChat, but conversations and ideas really come alive in person.
Culture, Culture, Culture
This word is thrown about a lot in the advertising and creative industries. Yes, we have a foosball table and yes, we can wear flip-flops and jeans to work, but I think the culture is also something intangible – the can-do, make-it-happen attitude or the creative energy in the conference room. That’s what sets us apart.
Mad Men? Maybe.
As a fan of the show, I was intrigued as to whether I would see any similarities at a real life agency (in 2015!) And, yes there are some. The creative process is just as inspiring, engaging (and frustrating) as the show portrays. But, so often the show revolves around coming up with one great tagline. Now, it’s about much more than the line. Do we start each day with a drink? No. But we know how to indulge. It’s just less pouring an Old Fashioned at 9am and more “THERE ARE CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES WITH SPRINKLES AT JEFF’S WELCOME LUNCH.”
Kick Your Comfort Zone to the Curb
I’m learning each day to be a little bit bolder. You have to “take the bull by the horns” and make things happen for yourself – in collaboration with others, of course – but no one is going to hold your hand every step of the way. If safe, predictable at-your-desk work is your thing, then advertising is not for you.
-Lucy