The Journey Home

As many know, a huge and unexpected snowstorm hit the east coast. The amount of snowfall was unexpected and made for many flight delays, over-bookings, cancelations and frustrated holiday travelers. One of those travelers was me. My original flight from Birmingham to my hometown of Charlottesville, Virginia was intended to depart Friday evening. That did not happen, nor did the four flights I booked in the next two days. Thankfully, the storm finally let up and got me home for the holidays Monday morning.

Oddly enough, it was this event that urged me to remember my job search right out of college. Like the snowstorm, the search to land a job was seemingly never-ending. I was constantly hearing, ‘we’re not hiring young professionals at this time.’ Being turned away again was so discouraging, especially when I was eager to work and felt I had the resume to prove I was a strong candidate. I imagine with the recent December graduations, there are many who feel this way. And so I offer my 3 A’s of advice that can be recycled at each graduation go-around:

Awareness: By now you know how hard it is to land a job right out of college, so there’s no need to get you off your high horse. You’ve seen earlier grads struggle to find a full-time job and you’ve heard the talk (and had enough!)

Attitude: But don’t hang your head. Be positive and confident that you will find some sort of work, and probably where you least expect it. Let that excite you! (This is the workin’ world. Free coffee and Ghirardelli chocolates from a client make your day.)

Action: You are not too good for anything, even if you do have a college degree. So you’re not getting that job you want right away, look to something else. Consider it a learning period and a stepping-stone into the job you really want. (i.e. try sales, general marketing position, internship.) It will likely turn into something full-time or be short-lived because of a better offer that you found from being proactive.

Personal story: After trying countless times elsewhere I had kind of accepted the fact that my twentieth ‘informational interview’ would give me nothing more than appreciated time and advice, then send me on my way. But, the right timing and effort I’d made got me the job I have now.

Trying to land a first job is like trying to fly home in the midst of a snowstorm. It is extremely frustrating I know. And while the journey home can take you some odd places, in the end you will get there.

Cool.

Where do you work? People ask. When I get this question I feel so proud to not only utter the reputable company, but to explain what industry I am in. There is not a day at work in which I don't think 'ad agencies are really cool.'

Might sound nerdy, but there is no harm in loving your work... and I know I am fortunate. I When I first started at Scout Branding, I knew I was joining a team of creatives who thrive off forward and innovative thinking. They are a

lways producing awesome work in often cool ways . Those who have been working in the ad industry often don't realize that their day-to-day work is impressive, exciting, interesting and is never monotonous. Each day brings something new and unexpected.

I wrote a post a while back talking about my first experience at a commercial shoot, and now I'd like to share one of my more recent "something cool."

My boyfriend, Carter.

Just kidding. But for a client, I oversaw the growth of ten trays of wheat grass to be the centerpiece of their booth at a local festival. In recognition of my oh-so-hard work I got my own personalized photo of HGTV's Carter Oosterhouse (sponsor of natural gas.) Proud I am letting it sit on my desk right next to my personalized note from Project Runway's Shirin Askari. So what if they are considered D-List? I still think it's cool.

Be sure to check out the video we shot of Shirin promoting Mannington Commercial's tx:style design challenge!

My Monthly Alarm Clock

Birmingham Tornado in 2005

On the first Wednesday of every month, I can hear the tornado siren being tested. This speaks to me in two ways: Alabama does see tornados and "what? a month has gone by already?! What the heck have I been doing?"

It is at the moment of hearing that siren that I think back on what has occurred in the past month. Today, on December 2, I think back to November (hang on let me look at my iCal) 4th and see that on this particular hump day I was in the midst of rearing wheat grass for a client (don't ask) and mentally preparing myself for the big Alabama/LSU football weekend ahead. That was a great week that I remember concluded over margaritas with some co-workers (always an enjoyable time.)

The rest of the month found new people, my first Toastmaster's meeting (that's a post in itself), babysitting/pet sitting, more football and the fulfilling Thanksgiving holiday. It was a good month, I'd say.

Who cares though? Why would you care what is jotted on my iCal? You don't. It just amazes me how fast things seem to go and that I hardly take time in this new, working world to thoughtfully appreciate what has happened and will happen. I like that siren—yes, because it screams "RUN!!! GET TO THE NEAREST BASEMENT!" but more because it is my monthly alarm clock.

So today, Wednesday December 2nd, I am awake and thankful for a great November and look forward to the December month. Let's just hope we don't hear that siren any sooner than January 6th... are you seeing this wind today, Birmingham?

Thinking... Inside the Box

The coffee shop across from my office sells all kinds of merchandise—t-shirts, wine, art, and a degree in a box.

What? Yep, you can earn your business, law or medical degree by purchasing a fifteen-dollar tin and reading up on all its contents. Obviously kidding… but truly, this is one of the neat knick-knacks in the Okafes coffee shop.

While waiting on our lattes one morning, my boyfriend remarked, “I bet there really is a lot you can learn in those little boxes.” Right away I realized how right he is. I haven’t yet bought one or really read the back to see what’s in there, but I’ll bet it presents all the information on law, business or medicine that lends you a “working knowledge” of the subject. My boyfriend proceeded to say, “you would be able to carry a conversation so much better with those professionals if you acquired even just the bare necessities.” So true.

This got me thinking… if only there was a box on everything in life to make us smarter and better rounded. Not just subjects, but life lessons, and the “how to’s” you encounter daily. I mean, I will never be a lawyer, nor have the desire to practice law, but I would love to graze the very surface of the subject and at least obtain an understanding. Then again, that’s a heck of a lot of boxes and there isn’t that much merchandise space in Okafes.

I think I also felt this an important blog post, because it hasn’t really hit me that my schooling education is complete. Sure, we are always learning, but there is no more signing up for classes, all on my parent’s dime. It almost makes me wonder, “Did I get all I should have out of that class? Should I have taken that course? Should I go back to school?” And then I shake my head and I’m quickly reminded that I don’t miss those long nights studying, Sunday group meetings and semester-long projects.

Yeah, I think I’d rather go buy a fifteen-dollar tin at the coffee shop.

22 Going on 13

For those of you who don't know, I love to perform. Growing up I did all sorts of shows-- musical revues, jazz festivals, plays, musicals... And then I got to college and decided not to pursue any of that. Instead, I majored in public relations and my passion soon fell victim to the closet. 

Well this past weekend, my love for performance came OUT of the closet when I auditioned for the new Broadway musical, 13. 

I found out about the audition through Red Mountain Theatre Company, here in Birmingham. It was an open casting call in search of talented triple threats (singer/dancer/actor.) The musical is about troubled middle schoolers looking for 'cool' but kind of figuring out that 'cool' is what you make of it. Anywho, the characters are between the ages of 13 and 17; however, the real Broadway cast had actors in their early twenties. 

Now you understand why I went out for the audition... but now I'll tell you what I learned in the audition:

Clearly, this audition was not intended for people my age. I found myself amongst a crowd of true middle and early high schoolers. Maybe they just look young I thought. But the second I heard metal mouths say, "Wanna sleepover after this?" and "My mom won't let me on Facebook until I'm 14" and "Dad, can you pick me up?" I started to realize what I had gotten myself into. 

Needless to say, my nerves for singing and dancing in front of children left me. I felt silly auditioning, but I had strapped on my converses and bought sheet music, so I figured I could at least practice for musicals I could pick on my own size.

So I danced, got whacked in the eye by some over-zealous red head, waited in line... constantly asking myself, should I leave now? this is dumb. Constantly thinking, ok well maybe there are some people my age, I just haven't figured out who... 'crack!' goes some guys voice. nevermind. I was certain he had to be at least a college freshman! (at least puberty allowed him to grow physically.) At this point I found myself on stage where the director asked me, "Carly Jayne... where are you from?" "Virginia," I said. "How'd you get down here?" "Well, I went to school down here." "How old are you???" he asked. Somewhat embarrassed in front on my new 14-year-old BFFs I whispered, "I'm 22." 

And in his director like ways he shooed me on to sing my musical piece. I sang Part of Your World from the Little Mermaid which I now laugh at because, under the sea, I think my 22-year-old self was wishing my chest was even flatter than it already is, praying that my hips weren't yet developed, wanting to have braces, and that I was going home that night to get on my Clueless phone and call my 6th grade crush Daniel Powers who I was sure was impressed by my new water bra. I was almost wishing I was part of their complicated middle school world trying to be cool and make it to the popular table at lunch. Instead, I had to wonder if the director thought I was some sort of pedophile wanting to creepily ask, 'want some caaaandy, little boy?!' 

Needless to say, that audition was just not intended for people above the age of 16, at least not the one at Red Mountain Theatre Company. At the very least, I had a great time re-visiting my adolescence, got a kick-ass dance workout, and got my performance fix for the year. Plus, I realized half-way through this experience, Carly! Do you really want to hang out with a bunch of kiddos at rehearsal every night? And while I may, and should not, get a role, I got a glimpse into what it is like to be 13, all over again. If I am remembering my 13-year-old self correctly, these auditions were a HUGE deal and if some early twenty-something came in and took my part, I'd be really, really upset. 

So, enjoy the show and all that comes with it, little middle school friends. And enjoy being thirteen. LYLAS! TTYL!

E-mails Gone Wild

E-mail is an incredible service. It's free, it's convenient, it's fast and it's easy. Let me say that again: It's EASY. With just one click of a button your message is instantly sent and delivered into another's inbox. Ok, enough with the salesman pitch. It hardly needs selling. 

What's between the lines:

With that same one click, you can make a HUGE mistake. E-mails know no limits. They are reliable, because they do their job every time. E-mails have no emotions or give second chances. They don't say to you: "What you are about to send could potentially damage someone" or "Woah! Do you really mean to send that to your boss?" or "AHH! Wrong document attached!" It is up to us, as e-mail users and abusers, to exercise major caution when composing and sending messages. We are so comfortable with e-mail we could practically do it with our eyes closed, when really our eyes should be WIDE open so we can realize just what we are doing.

In the past week I have made two e-mail uh-ohs. Fortunately, there was no harm done—only a small wave of worry and a 'this is gonna be a pain in the ass to explain to my entire address book.'

The first that occurred was a classic reply-all mistake. I ended up writing back two co-workers and the client saying "I'm so excited! This will be so cool." (not a big deal, right, but only because I didn't say anything negative... and would never through e-mail!) Nevertheless, lesson learned: I will probably never use the reply-all button again, at least for a little while.

The second uh-oh ocurred when I was testing the 'automated reply' for the purpose of setting it up for another a co-worker. First, it didn't work on her computer, so I tried it on mine. I wrote a simple 'Out to lunch. Be back at 1:30' and was sure I had it right. NOPE! What ended up happening is that hundreds, I mean HUNDREDS of e-mails were sent out to every single person that had ever e-mailed my work e-mail. Just to show you how ridiculous the situation was, I ended up replying to 90 of my boss' e-mails saying that damn 'Out to lunch... be back at 1:30' reply. FML. 

Of course it was an honest mistake, but an unfortunate one. No harm done, just a huge pain in the ass to my poor co-workers and a few clients. I will say that a few of the responses I got back were somewhat humorous.

"Um, is there a reason you are telling me you're going to lunch?"- A photographer.

"I'm guessing that was supposed to be to someone else, but have fun!"- The bartender we used at our party.

"Do you realize you just sent me a dozen e-mails??"- A dentist client.

"Was that supposed to go to me? I hope so!"- Some PR dude. Sorry, buddy.

The fiasco is all said and done... thank God. And I do apologize to everyone who got my trial auto-reply. I know you all are thinking I am truly "out to lunch" in more ways than one.

Back to e-mails in general. I share these stories, because they were lessons learned for me and I can only hope they will serve as warning to other folks to BE CAREFUL! Watch your words and watch who you're e-mailing. 

A few tips that have been said and can't be said enough:

1.  Keep your work e-mail separate from your personal e-mail.

2.  Whatever you compose in the e-mail body, write as if your boss is looking over your shoulder. Not that you have to wear a bracelet inscribed with "What Would Bossman Do?" but just think... would you want him to see this?

3.  Scan over the e-mail before you send it--- who is it going to? This is especially important with forwards.

4.  Know how to do an 'automated reply' (and let me know once you've figured it out.)

5.  Limit how many internal e-mails are not work related--- As in, don't bombard your co-workers with stupid You Tube videos. 

6.  Expect the worse--- How bad would it be if a virus came through and started forwarding all your internal e-mails?? AHHHHHH!!

7.  NEVER EVER say anything negative about a client or co-worker. Be professional people.

Happy e-mailing.

Pet Koala for Sale

I have truly been TICKLED all day, and it's because of this Craig's List listing. My favorite response to this so far was from my friend, Mandy's sister who said, 'I laughed so hard I peed a little.' I just know if I weren't at my office desk, I'd pee...A LOT.

Enjoy.

I have a three year old Koala Bear named GumNut, that I'm desperately trying to find a new home for. I bought him back in January figuring it would be an awesome pet that would enjoy living in my greenhouse, sadly I was wrong. I paid $3200 for him back in January and I'am not sure what the used Koala Bear market is like in a good economy or the one we have now; so I'am open to offers. Please use some common sense before contacting me, don't be an idiot, I'am not interested in trading my Koala Bear for your busted up 1980's Camero, pictures of your naked wife, or an offer to paint my garage door.

 

The Good

*He is somewhat housebroken, uses a cat box most of the time.

*For the most part he is very quite; this also falls into the bad category which we will touch on in a moment.

*He eats spiders, (not kidding) we haven't had a spider in our house since we got him.

*Hates watching Desperate Housewives, used to be my wifes favorite show until GumNut bit her for changing the channel from Jeopardy, to Desperate Housewives.

*Gets along well with one of my two dogs.

*Loves to go for car rides.

 

Now for the Bad:

*He eats a lot of eucalyptus, which is not as cheap as I expected.

*Apparently eucalyptus is like a drug for Koala Bears, when GumNut is coming down from his high he becomes very violent and aggressive.

*He raped and killed my wife's cat "Miss. Kitty'" (Honestly, I wanted to put this in the good section because I've been trying to find a way to get that worthless cat out of our house for two years, thanks GumNut.)

*He does not like Asian's, I have no idea where this Koala was raised but someone of Asian Decent must have really mistreated him.

*Loves Vin Diesel movies, not sure why, he just does.

*Has extremely sharp claws and teeth which he uses often.

*Loves shiny objects, steals and hides them frequently in my dog's ass.

*He is quite, and as a result has snuck in on my wife and I during intimate moments. I mind him watching; maybe it won't bother you as much.

* GumNut smells terrible and is not easy to wash. I had to hold a gas soaked rag over his mouth till he blacked out to get him in this tub for a bath.

*Once he is in the water he is fine, getting him into the water is a challenge, he will scratch you, he will bite you, and you will bleed.

Three Years and Counting

On Friday, October 2, my work hosted its third anniversary party. It was a blast. Great food and drink. Wonderful people.

The days leading up to the party were slammed. We were busy building an e-mail campaign, pitching to clients, traveling to meet with clients, doing photo shoots, and creating new designs. There was hardly time for party planning. But as Paul put it, “The party is a tradition every year, but scrambling to make it happen has become a tradition, too.” With that mindset, we made it happen.

We got everything set up in time, including all beverages and food, on top of all party decorations. The office truly looked its best with featured projects we’ve done, flowers, candles and damn clean desks. Our trusty e-vite RSVP list failed to mention that ‘66 confirmed guests’ translates to about 90 guests. Needless to say, all the food was devoured in the first couple of hours.

Though we were slightly off in our numbers, it hardly took being with Scout last year to know that this was our biggest and most successful party yet. It was a ton of fun. Other hits of the night included tables set up outside, a bartender to help feed our thirsty attendees, new artwork, noteworthy attire, and an About Town photographer. You couldn’t help but want to stay a good while. We had one guest who intended to stay ‘just 10 minutes’ and ended up staying the entire night. Gotta love that. I know all of us at Scout enjoyed the conversations with clients, friends and family, and we finally found time to take our first group shot together. Pretty good lookin’ crew, if I do say so myself.

We are already looking forward to next year’s fourth anniversary party and having everyone, and their brother, back again.

Why I Haven't Called

When I first graduated college and moved to a new city, someone said to me: "Just wait. Your world gets really small, really fast."  

I now know what they mean.

My last year of school I lived in a sorority house with forty-three other girls. Our days were spent going to class and part-time jobs, taking advantage of 24/7 food and drink; and when we weren't doing that, we spent time on the sofa watching your typical girl shows, going to restaurants and to bars, and working out. There was always someone to go on a walk with, to get margaritas with (translation for court, rum and diet), or someone to simply sit with and vent to.

Privacy was a rare gem while living a 24-hour sleepover; but we knew better than to under appreciate everything, because we knew we'd never live it again.

What a drastic change and adjustment it has been living in a small apartment with one roommate, working full time, and paying for everything from rent to a granola bar. All of my days are spent working in a trendy office in downtown Birmingham (which I love!), but I often find myself staring at the impeccable weather outside that I used to debate skipping class for. (That probably wouldn't fly with my job.) When not working, I love the feeling of leaving work behind and bringing my personal life to the forefront. I go to the YMCA or meet a couple close friends (who I'm fortunate to take with me from college) at a cool bar for the drink specials. It truly is so relaxing to just shoot the shit, but I do miss those nights walking from the sorority house to the strip on a Tuesday night, on a whim, with a group of twenty.

Now those twenty friends I came to know very well and see regularly have all gone various directions, including myself—some finishing school, some pursuing masters degrees, some traveling, others working. We can't possibly keep up with each other... and how ridiculous would it be to call each and every friend every. single. day? In the days of college life, you couldn't help but be in others' business. It was easy. Now it takes, not necessarily effort, but an understanding. Entering life after college is inevitable and exciting, and we must know that our worlds are going to shrink, especially in our friendships and the time spent maintaining those friendships. 

I think I speak for the rest of my friends when I say, a lack of constant communication doesn't mean: A. I don't like you B. I have forgotten you or C. I don't care abut you or D. I will never see you again. And when deciding that 'OK, today is the day I am calling ____ ' we must know it is nothing personal that I have not called you or come to visit you in a long time. And I am talking three months even. We must understand that the point of the conversation is to say hey and catch up a bit. The whole emotional aspect of 'OMG college is over, I miss you, you're my friend, why haven't you called me more?' has to be cast aside. 

Things are just different now, and that is OK. We can still meet back in our college town, go on an annual trip and capitalize on all forms of social media. We will make new friends in our smaller, post college worlds, move even further away. But NOTHING will change the great times we had in our big world of hanging out on the J, raiding the kitchen, using birthdays as an excuse to go out, and life with Grant B.

I love you friends, and I'll call you all soon-ish. 

The Standing Broom

Remember the leprechaun that was claimed to have been spotted by citizens of Chrichton, Alabama? This story attracted news reporters, people who wanted to know 'where the gold at,' and ultimately millions of YouTube viewers across the globe. Because everyone wanted to see the leprechaun, right? Wrong. Because everyo

ne wanted to see the hilarity of these Alabamians who truly believed they would find a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Surrounding this event, there have been several movies and other news stories that unfairly allude to people in Alabama as dumb, redneck, white trash, obese, or just plain crazy. Some things just do not give our state a good rap. Forrest Gump. Sweet Home Alabama. To Kill A Mockingbird. And now... The Standing Broom.

On August 26, 2009 two WSFA 12 News Anchors shared the story of this 'standing broom' in Prattville, Alabama. I heard about this recent story while at work from one of my co-workers. He explained that two women on the brink of opening a consignment shop were cleaning up in preparation. One woman was sweeping, and when she went to set the broom down it proceeded to stay standing. No glue; no strings; no kidding. News about this standing broom swept the town, and everyone peered through the windows to see for themselves the broom that stood even after twenty-four hours.

Cool-- right??? Well in response to this amazing story, my boss said: "Let's see if we can get our broom to stand." And so, Paul took our, less than flat-bristled, broom and put it on the floor and PRESTO! Looks like Scout Branding has a magic broom, too! Call Oprah, or should we just say, hmm...?

I hate to rain on their little Prattville parade, but it turns out it is not as hard as we thought to make your broom stand. Don't believe me? Come look in our windows! 

Now, I know Alabama is so much more than how people on the outside view it. But for now, this stories just another one for the books. 

RIP Meko.

There are simply not enough words to describe the impact an animal can have on your life. But I'm gonna try anyway.

Yesterday, I lost my very very special kitty, Meko.

I'll never forget how I came to get Miss Meko. I was in the third grade and my mom said, "if you really want a kitten, write your dad a note and tell him you will do the dishes until you turn 16." And so I did just that and my dad said yes, only because I would do the dishes everyday until age 16 (just kidding.) Hey, at least I offered!

When I went to the local animal shelter, I was a little disappointed to find no kittens in 'Kitty City'... except one: Meko. There she was scurrying around, dodging every worker that tried to catch her. But I guess I had the magic touch, because she came right to me... her future rightful owner. Even as my mom filled out the adoption papers she curled up in my arms, perfectly calm, ready to be taken to a welcoming home.

Early on, my family and I realized she was a bit wacky. She had lots of energy and body was a little disproportionate. She was somewhat of a bobble head with feet so long, she could wear a humans' shoes. She maintained those same black-bottomed feet for the rest of her life, but she grew into that head. She had the most beautiful colorings and these gorgeous green eyes.

I have so many memories of Meko that I will never forget about her.

-  She was THE ULTIMATE HUNTER. Just a few things she's caught:

*  Our state bird, a cardinal.

*  Our PET bird, Broadway. Mom, did you ever find the beak and claws?

*  A lizard, well she swallowed it (and it made her head go cockeye for a good few years.)

*  A full-grown squirrel

*  At least fifty-some moles

-  She drooled and curled her toes when she was happy.

-  She wasn't fat; just fluffy.

-  She LOVED to eat: We gave her breakfast and dinner, twice the size of her siblings and she always finished theirs off. Even if they weren't through yet.

-  Cat nip was her weakness.

-  You couldn't feed her food out of your hand, because she SWOT at you.

-  She had a big 'M' on her forehead... how she got the name Meko.

-  She could meow so loud and make raccoon noises; again, hence why we named her after Pocahontas' Meko the raccoon.

-  She woke up at 5:30 every morning and rattled my parents door to say 'LET ME OUT!'

-  She loved sitting in the sink.

-  She was the best sleeping partner.

There are so many memories I have of my cat, Meko, that will never ever ever be forgotten. I think what also makes losing a childhood pet so difficult is that it's like losing a part of you. She has been a part of my life for the past 14 years, whether I was home with her or away at school. Everyone knew this: right friends?

I will miss my Meko so much, but wouldn't it be strange if I didn't? I think all the tears and grieving my family and I have had over her just goes to show what kind of impact she had on our lives. 

I am so thankful for all the wonderful memories I have of her and so thankful to my parents for taking such good care of her while I was away. And I could not be happier that we provided her with the best life a kitty could ask her. I think we made quite an impact on her, too.

R.I.P. Meeks.

It was Fate for Nate and Kate

On this date next month, my brother Nate will be married!!!

I couldn't be more happy for the oldest of my three brothers. Nate is a lucky, lucky guy because he is marrying a wonderful girl whose name is Kate. 

Nate and Kate met through work at Washington and Lee University in 2007. Kate tells me that when Nate started working at W & L, she even joked how it would be funny if two people whose names rhymed started dating...

Sure enough the conditional 'would be' became real and the two fell in love. Since my brother and Kate started dating, we've encountered numerous rhyming sessions:

Nate and Kate plus 8 (in each of their wedding parties.)

Save the date for Nate and Kate!

Are Nate and Kate on the interstate?

It might be not be late until we see Nate and Kate. 

I can't wait to celebrate with Nate and Kate!

It's fun. You should try it. Anyway, their relationship is really great (see! can't get around it!) and I love the fact that they are truly opposites. From physical features to personality traits to exercise regimens, they are just different human beings but are simply perfect for each other. They bring out the best in each other and get along very well.

So the wedding is something I am really looking forward to. Cute bridesmaid dresses, tons of friends and family, food and drink, fun band and awesome reception venue.

Congrats to my big brother Nate and his bride-t0-be, Kate. I can hardly wait!

* I should also mention Nate is the inspiration for starting my own personal blog. He is a very talented writer and keeps up with his own blog, Rullmania.

Don't Jump the Gun, Rudy.

When the phone rings at Scout, it is likely you will get me. I don't mind answering the phones, as I enjoy speaking with the various people that call. These people range from big wig clients to solicitors. At this point, I pretty much recognize every name/number that comes up on the caller ID and because of this, I sometimes answer my boss' or co-workers' calls in different accents (gangster, chinese, hispanic, etc.) And when that gets old, my next victims are solicitors who are identified as OUT OF AREA/OUT OF AREA always... or not?

Last week the phone rang with that caller ID tagged to it. If it had been any other day, I would have answered the phone in an impromptu english accent, but I guess I wasn't feeling the funny mood. Luck had it that the caller was actually a client, and a rather big one at that. Phew! Who knew that calling from your voicemail will ban you to the OUT OF AREA category?

I tell that story, because of the common perception of salespeople. "They suck! They are so annoying ! They have absolutely nothing to offer!" And on this, I'd like to share a story I recently heard from someone who experienced those exclamations indirectly first hand.

A good friend of mine works for a young environmental company called Green Building Focus here in Birmingham. His title is Project Representative and one of his main responsibilities is to sell profiles in their in-depth, business-to-business handbook to green companies. This involves a lot of phone calls, as the majority of these companies are outside Birmingham. He dialed the number...riiiiiiing.... and a girl answered the other end. The conversation went as follows:

*Let's call the girl Rudy.

Rudy: Hello?

Friend: Hi this is _________ from Green Building Focus—

Rudy:  How much?

Friend: Well we are offering profiles in our upcoming handbook starting at two thousand—

Rudy:  Too much.

click.

In response to 'too much' and the overall conversation, my friend simply decided to send the President an e-mail to spill all the information on the offer he was sure Rudy would not relay to him. He wasn't even e-mailing with any intention, other than to include the company on the great offer.

This is the part I love: Minutes after sending the e-mail, my friend got a call from that President who apologized on behalf of the girl's rudeness. He not only asked for forgiveness, but he made it clear that their company does not tolerate that type of attitude. Finally, he asked for all the details of the offer so he could hear it for himself.

Lessons learned here are:

1.  Don't jump the gun when it comes to sales people. They may actually have something of interest. And in the very least, you should listen to them respectfully and not hang up. Because if you do... it may come back to haunt you.

2.  And of course: Don't assume OUT OF AREA is a solicitor. Not all people will think your entertain your playful accents.

In conclusion, 'You suck, Rudy!'

'Dear Economy, I'm sorry I never acknowledged your goodness...'

This past summer, my boyfriend Richard enlightened me with a concept I had never heard of. It all happened one early summer day as we had just finished a long run and were strolling along the gulf shore. 

"I just have to work out," Richard said.

I have never been one to get on a strict exercise regimen and replied, "But, why?" 

This is when Richard informed me that it's the whole idea of a 'negative-neutral.' This is probably familiar to a lot of other people, but it was new to me. He explained that if he works out, then its normal. And if he does not work out, then there is something seriously wrong. Basically, a workout should be part of his every day and he doesn't get credit for it when he does. However, if he fails to workout then he is loses credit. In case I have not made this clear (this may be new to others like it was to me!), he can only lose. Not gain.

I was reminded of this mini lesson the other day when talking with him about two popular topics this year: The economy and the job market.

I concluded that it is not fair the state of the economy and the job market are only recognized when they are horrible. If and when the economy is back to where it should be, will we comment, 'Wow, the economy is really great!" Or, "I see you've just graduated college. Lucky you; this is a fabulous job market!" Like Richard's exercise requirement, those two examples are considered negative-neutrals. Understand?

And this can also be applied to customer service. We always go on a rant when we experience poor customer service. It is rare that we commend just 'customer service', much less 'great customer service.' You know, I think the woman that does her straight-forward job of depositing a check at the bank should be applauded. Maybe she didn't give you a lolly pop and a transaction slip with a smiley face and a 'dash Barbara,' but that is fine. Hell, we appreciate that! We just don't show it very often. But, boy oh boy would we ever show it if she accidentally deposited the check into someone else's account.

The negative neutral theory applies to so many things in life. I guess I'd like to end this post by simply saying that when the economy is fine all over again, thus leading to a thriving job market—let us say, 'Man. The economy is awesome. You have really entered the job market at a good time.' And whatever else gets at the idea of 'dear economy, be good. I promise I'll never devalue you ever every again.'

Because isn't it funny how you don't miss something until it's gone? 

Margaritas? It's 3 'o clock...

As many of us know, the way the interviewer wraps up the interview is to ask one final question: "So, do you have any questions for me?"

I was recently told that a great question, often forgotten, is one potential employees really want to know the answer to: "What would you say is the overall work environment/dynamic of the staff here?"

This makes for solid dialogue between the interviewer and interviewee. It allows you to read into how one truly feels about their days at the workplace, it's a fun question (so the conversation will end on a good note), and allows the interviewee insight into what was just asked.

It is my belief that the overall 'feel' of the workplace is of upmost importance. It should not be the make or break to accepting the job, but you need to know if it is something you can be comfortable with. And while asking the question and getting the on-the-spot answer is one thing, living the day-to-day action is something else. Finally, if you are on a short-term gig that could potentially turn into something permanent, it is a good time for you to figure out if the days there are something you can swallow.

In my first couple of weeks at Scout, I quickly learned how things are run around here. 

-  You don't have to dress like you're attending an ice water tea party everyday. And probably never. Dress business when meeting with clients. 

-  Play music. Heck, blast it. When the phone rings, adjust accordingly.

-  Make yourself at home, i.e use the kitchen and kitchen ware, stock the fridge.

-  Answer the phone in different accents when one of us calls the office.

-  Send one another interesting e-mails (pictures of pets, cool Web sites, corny stock photos)

-  E-mail even if we all sit feet away from each other.

-  Bring in your bike. 

-  Bring in your pets.

-  Yuengling is the beer of choice for office celebrations.

-  Make coffee whenever.

-  Make fun of the people that walk by the front of our office who go, 'is this a furniture store?' Or better yet the wide variety of visitors who pop in (cracks heads, frat boys, pet lovers.)

-  Come Friday, often Thursdays, drop what you're doing because we're getting margaritas and guac at Cantina.

These are just a few of the qualities that make up our unique work environment. And while a good work environment is very important, there needs to be a balance between accepting what it is and wishing it was something else. If you are like me, you are new to this cast of characters. You are the newest piece of furniture in the office. You adapt to the current, long-standing work environment that the others have known for a long time. Trust me, they don't care what you think—so deal with it.

I am fortunate because I love the way things run at my workplace. And I would love to hear what rules of thumb are instated at your job. 

NYC: The Harvard of all Cities?

New York City is like Harvard. Think about it: When we were applying to college, or any type of grad program, it was an unstated fact that Harvard is 'the best.' If you can get in Harvard, you can get in anywhere, they say. And that is what people say about New York City. If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.

I honestly cannot relate to those who dramatically jet off to The Big Apple upon graduation. Unless you are called there for a certain job (most likely in finance), it is a huge leap to take. I guess I admire those that have a 'I have nothing to lose attitude,' but the fact is, we do have something to lose. Money. Time. An unhealthy amount of weight. We all have dreams, but they don't necessarily come true in NYC. More than likely, you will get a better start in a more realistic city. And when you start off well and decide you can then handle making an I Love NY t-shirt a reality, then you can move. Comfortably. And you will get that sleep the city (apparently) never gets.

It really gets me when people assume that New York City is THE place to work post-grad. Sure, I know The City houses some of the greatest companies in the nation, but does it house an enjoyable state of being? And who really believes they will get their dream, top executive job at a far-fetched company right out of college?

I guess the point of this post is to help those who are deciding on which city they want to move to, reassure those living in a city other than NYC, and finally—to show these newly new yorkers that maybe they should have bought a round-trip ticket.

So. For those who have opted not to go to the Harvard of all cities, there are other Ivy Leaguers that I'd like to give credit to: 

Boston (much cleaner city.)

Providence, RI and Newport, RI (New England is amazing and has so much history and culture.)

Chicago (btw, research why it is really called The Windy City.)

San Francisco (expensive like NY, but much better weather, and ideal place on West coast.)

Denver (up and coming, not to mention gorgeous, and great for those who love the outdoors)

Kansas City (Midwest has great jobs to offer that are too often overlooked.)

St. Louis and Minneapolis (forgot why, but I hear they are hidden jems.)

Charlotte (great for those who don't want to leave the South, but want the city feel.)

Nashville (don't assume it's only for country music lovers.)

And finally... Birmingham (because I live here. JK—really, awesome place for creatives and businesspersons.)

I speak to these cities, though there are many others, because they are great places to consider for both a job and your right-out-of-college life. If not, always.

Richard's Request

I committed the sin of blogging yesterday, because I did not follow through with a post. I promised myself I wouldn't do that; but I also promised that if I did do that, I would make up for it the next day with two posts. (I think I've heard that's what you do with a certain type of female medicine.) 

Yesterday was a busy day at work. It was one of those days where you do so much and are constantly in the 'I have so much to do' mindset that at the end of the day you say, "I got zero accomplished." (By the way, those were the exact words of my boss. We all just laughed. Mostly because we know he was running around like a 'mad man,' and surely got things done. It just doesn't seem that way to him.)

On to the point of this post. My dear boyfriend, Richard recently told me that he enjoys my blog, but would love to see it go beyond the professional talk and discuss other topics. "It will make people wanna read your blog, ceej!" (thanks, rich.)

But he is right. I enjoy relaying my experiences in my first real job to youngsters alike, but I enjoy taking about other subjects just as others like reading them. 

And so I will honor Richard's request. 

Abbreviations. I know someone, very well, that shortens about two thirds of the words in his vocabulary. Some examples. "Talk to you late." "See you at four thirt." "Let me check my schedge." 

And because the energy is not wasted on finishing those words, it is thus transmitted into his everyday being. This includes thumping on a treadmill at the digital speed of 10, singing 'Lord Knows I'm a Lucky Man...!,'  devouring food like it's the last supper, and randomly fist-punching in the air at the mere thought of a certain american sport. 

It is amazing how well you can learn a person. And it is amazing how much love you can have for someone even through all their quirkiness and all the time spent with them. And while I am amazed, I am anything but surprised because even the quirk-sters are incredibly talented. I want to say how proud I am of my dear someone for landing a job with such a noteworthy company, assisting in its promising growth and for being a truly wonderful person.

I can't wait to see him at five thirt.

Leafing a Place in Their Hearts

When I first began my career at the agency I work for, I was put on a three-month freelance contract. I learned that a short-term contract is becoming increasingly normal, especially in these economic times. It allows a company to see how you fit in with the staff, how they are able to utilize you/not utilize you, and what potential you have in benefitting the company in the long term. It also leans your way. It is a trial period for you, as the employer, to figure out if this is where you see yourself fit. However, if you are like me—you are grateful to even have a three month opportunity and will do everything you can to keep the job.

In my first couple of weeks at the agency, my co-worker asked me to help her with something. She and my boss had gotten a (then) prospective client a unique graphite pen, carved in the shape of a narrow leaf. Upon Fed-exing the gift she said to me, "OK, we need to think of something creative we can write along with this leaf." So, we brainstormed; and eventually came up with something along the lines of 'leaving a mark on their hearts' (hence the graphite pen.) And because I was so new to the company, because I was the most recent person to shift the dynamic of the staff, I was so proud that she asked my opinion. It was at that very moment I concluded that, like the graphite pen, I was going to leave a mark on someone's heart.

I wrote a post a few days ago about actions speaking louder than words, so you probably know all the things I did to attempt at earning my keep in my workplace. Well, I am more proud of that post than ever because as of Friday it rings especially true. After seven weeks in the agency, my freelance contract turned into a 'we like you and want to keep you on' contract. I could not be more happy. I do not expect anything to change drastically; as I will continue to do everything I have been doing. It is just an encouraging feeling to know that everything I have done has been right and that the people I work with like me just as much as I like them. It was also encouraging to know that my workload and visibility at the agency will only become more plentiful, as I am still learning the ropes of being an account coordinator and, after all, it has been only seven weeks. 

So, what I want you to take from my speel: If you start somewhere as only temporary help and want it to be a long-term gig, decide early on that you are going to leave a mark on the company's heart. Have that attitude, because once you do, all will fall into place and they won't want to let you go. Just my advice. Take it or leaf it.

"So what are YOU up to now??"

You're Only As Good As Your Drink

I had been looking forward to September 4th for a long time. Why? Because it marked the date in which I headed east bound to Atlanta for the Alabama/VA Tech game. It was a fabulous weekend. Aside from The Tide presiding victory over the Hokies, I got to catch up with friends—both close and distant. Amidst tailgates and block parties, cocktails and kegs, there was constant conversation about where we were living and what we were doing.

I learned that some had decided to go to grad school at other SEC schools, while others dismissed the degrees they received and opted for a completely unexpected job. Sometimes I think the question of, "What are you doing now?" can be daunting. It's like you are a walking Tweet and only have 140 characters to impress the listener with your current situation. I miss the days in which we were all in college and never felt like we had to one-up each other. The only outdoing going on was 'who can shot gun the fastest!!!' (Not this girl.) We were all on the same page in our college days. Taking classes, trying to graduate and when it came time to relax and hang out with friends, we only worried about making memories—Not plans for the upcoming years. College is so about 'living the moment' and I will admit, that is the one, greatest thing I miss most about it. 

But this can still be the same in 'the real world.' Think of it this way: Though we have all gone such varying directions, we all have one thing in common: We are still young and still new to whatever it is we are doing. And because of this, no one is doing anything particularly extraordinary, and that is OK. I cannot stand when people who play it off like they are already as successful as a fifty-year-old who has been working day in and day out for the last twenty-five years and was just named one of the most prominent leaders in the community. We are all in the same boat and will one day arrive at that point. For now, we are performing on the same stage...this entry-level, new to the real-world' stage and that is it. Move on. Drink your screwdriver and enjoy the day. You're probably only as good as the drink in your hand.

This is something I came to realize this past weekend. It was fun to catch up; to relay what I was doing and where I was living. Now you know what I am up to, just like I now know what you are doing. Now let's enjoy this stage of our youth and check back in say, four more years. 

Great to see ya'll and Roll Tide.

The Un-Comfort Zone

I love being thrown out of my element. Last weekend, I told a filmmaker who I met at a commercial shoot that I would help him with a film. He was participating in a contest called Sidewalk Scramble in which filmmakers are given a theme and two props they have to incorporate into a four-minute movie all in a brief forty-eight hours. It is up to the filmmakers to organize the talent, provide all the equipment and play director. So, I did my part and offered to play a caring mother in a high-speed car chase. I lent my new friend Garrett, a ten-year-old boy, a brother and sister, and another guy about four hours of my time on Saturday. Anyone on the outside might think the experience was totally random. But I wanted to see what goes into the making of a short film. I wanted to do something different. Out of my element. Not in my comfort zone.

I tell this anecdote because it reminds me of some advice a professional once harped on: Go out of your comfort zone, Carly. I majored in public relations with a minor in Spanish. I worked as a sales representative selling ad space for the school newspaper. These were all things I was familiar with and it seemed logical to seek a job that fit into my field of study or my last job. So I was looking at PR firms and newspapers and magazines that wanted someone to sell ad space. But that very meetings I had with the professional changed my thought patterns. He said, “I see you were on the ad team. Why don’t you start thinking more seriously about ad agencies. PR overlaps a great deal there. And so will your account executive experience.” He continue to suggest, “I know you are comfortable with print ads, but how about broadcast. Contact this guy who leads the sales team over at ABC 33/40.” These two ideas really sparked within, and I started to realize that I didn’t need to meet the exact mold of people who typically work in these places.

To this day, I tell people that that meeting was really what catapulted me into getting where I am now. So remember, you are not glued to your degree. Get out of your element and you will surprise yourself at how versatile you really are. You will have a lot to bring to the table, even if it is just playing a caring mother in a high-speed car chase. 

I May Stink at Math, but I Know Spanish!

When I was in eighth grade, we had the choice of taking French or Spanish. It was at this point in my life that I decided I wanted to study Spanish. Having just watched the story of Selena Quintanilla, the beautiful and talented hispanic singer whose life was taken at 23, I was inspired to learn her unique culture and eeking to master the language. And so, I embarked on my Spanish academia, called myself Selena and prepared to roll my R's and develop a cool accent.

I continued to take Spanish all through high school as well, eventually working up to AP Spanish my senior year. When I got to college I once again faced another choice in my curriculum: A foreign language or computer science. When I finished, that was it. The requirement had been filled. I wouldn't have to ever take a Spanish class for the rest of my college career.

It was a quarter into my freshman year that I had to declare my minor. So, I considered this: I was in the field of communications and the Spanish subject had become a large part in academics for me. There was hardly a day that passed in which I was not exposed to Spanish. I felt like I would be totally throwing away all I had built up for the past five years. Senora Waldman would be so displeased!

And so I minored in Spanish, partly because of separation anxiety, but also because I knew it was smart. I will never forget something my advisor told me junior year:

"I'm proud to see you have stuck with Spanish as your minor. We don't have enough students with a communications/language combo. More students need to do that."

His words were so reassuring. So what if I squeeked by calculus by a point? I can speak Spanish!

So for those of you considering a minor in a foreign language or, if you can handle it, a double major in communications and a language, DO IT. This day in age, it will stand out on your resume and be able to utilize it in this ever increasing bilingual workforce.

Buenas suerte, amigos.

I'd Rather Be...

I love to sing. I love the thrill of getting up on stage in front of a crowd of people and putting my all into a song. I still reminisce about my musical theater days in plenty of broadway favorites—Oliver, Annie, Pirates of Penzance, Into the Woods, Fiddler on the Roof. I was so happy taking on various acting roles and being a source for quality entertainment. Perhaps this confession is something I should keep inside, terminate this blog post, and carry on with my day job. But, whether you have faced it or not, everyone has a passion that they can only wish would translate into a full-time, well-paid job.

My boss loves the bass guitar and even started off in a band he modestly refers to as 'sub par.' And though he opted for the advertising agency route, I know he wouldn't pass up a solid jam session with an old friend if the opportunity presented itself. I have a friend who has played golf his whole life, did well in college, but opted for a job in finance upon college graduation. I am convinced that his drive will make him very successful, but I think he'd prefer to be 'driving' elsewhere. And then I think of my dad who is yet to live down his collegiate lacrosse days. He also works in finance, but spends almost every weekend at lacrosse tournaments or coaching young goalies. If he could make a sufficient living playing for a Major League Lacrosse team he would. 

And the list of those physically in one place, but mentally in another goes on. If you are reading this, you yourself are thinking of your own passion and true calling. Like a bumper sticker preaches, "I'd rather be ________." You fill in the mad lib. (Keep it clean.)

I spill these thoughts because of where I stand in life now. Fresh to the working world, still in my youth, I sporadically ask myself 'is this what I should be doing?' When we graduate we are handed a diploma, as well as something a little less tangible and a little more difficult to harness: Independence. This is why the real world suddenly becomes 'scary.' With our independence, we recent grads worry that whatever step we take next will not be the right one. And so we step cautiously, opting for a job that fits our varying degrees or something close to it. Day by day, we carry on in our entry-level jobs thankful to even have something in this economy. We learn a great deal about what our professors lectured on in college, all the while resorting back to that damn bumper sticker. I'd rather be playing the Baker's Wife in Into the Woods.