So there I was, fresh from the whirlwind of McCann NYC, landing with a bit of a thud in London, 2008. The transition from bustling ad scenes to, well, a career pause wasn't exactly what I'd call a soft landing. The job market was as inviting as a closed door.
Fast forward to my first big client meeting in London. To say I was a bundle of nerves is an understatement. I was so jittery, I resorted to fidgeting with my pen, desperately trying to find my client-speaking groove. And then, as if to add a dramatic flair to my anxiety, the pen exploded. Ink. Everywhere. It was like a scene from a comedy sketch, except it was my life. The meeting took a nosedive, and so did my confidence.
But, you know what? It was in that inky mess that I realised we're all just human. Even clients. There's this illusion of perfection we chase after, but real life? It's far from perfect. That day, covered in ink and embarrassment, I think I became more human to my clients. And somehow, that disastrous meeting turned into the foundation of a strong, successful working relationship. It was as if letting my guard down and showing my vulnerability made me more relatable, more trustworthy.
When our client L'Oréal rolled out their #WorthitResume campaign, it struck a chord with me. It was a reminder that our mess-ups, our not-so-fine moments, are often where we shine the brightest. Or, at the very least, where we learn the most. Now, when I present, I keep my hands free – no pens to betray me. I've embraced my story, ink stains and all, because sharing these moments can help us all be a bit more forgiving of our flaws and fearless in the face of new challenges.
So, here's to the mishaps, the blunders, and the beautifully imperfect journey. It's through these #proudfailures that we truly grow.
Shayne Millington Elav Horwitz Nusara Chinnaphasaen Ioana Filip Isabel Castens Erica Yahr (she/her) Stephanie Nerlich Ann-Christine Diaz Ioana Zamfir Would you join me and post your own “proud failures” stories? Please include hashtags below👇🏼
#WorthitResume #LOrealParis #TruthWellTold #McCannWorldgroup
Insights Executive at PrettyGreen | Trend Local at Trendwatching
2wThank you for the welcome team, I'm so happy to be here! 💚