In the corporate world, I racked up 18 years' experience as an Advertising Account Executive. My career kicked off with a New York Times Regional Newspaper, then I repped for a niche magazine, and finally spent 8 years selling Cable TV advertising. I loved it all; even won awards doing it. It was my good fortune to work for some great companies that believed in the value of excellent training.
Then I had an epiphany: I observed that most clients' knowledge of advertising/media was acquired from a media rep with an agenda. (guilty, but that's what they paid me to do!)
Too often, I heard a business owner tell me they bought an advertising package because it was cheap, and then complain because it didn't produce results. Even worse was when it was expensive, and STILL didn't work, because they spent it in the wrong place. Maybe all they really needed was someone who would objectively guide them on how to make cost-effective advertising choices with an eye toward a better return on investment. After all, the only expensive advertising buy is the one that's not working.
My vocation is advertising consulting and media-buying, my bailiwick is copywriting/proofreading/editing, my joy is producing TV commercials. My reward is a happy client. (Happy clients pay their invoices and give referrals.)
In the spirit of giving back and encouraging others to pursue their entrepreneurial dream, I present 'JA in a Day' programs in local schools as a volunteer for Junior Achievement. I also enjoy being a volunteer with SCORE, where I was selected as a "Small Business Success Story" in 2006 and recently elected to chair the local chapter's advertising committee.
Blessings and good juju to all you fellow entrepreneurs!