A quick visit to David Wald’s Legendary Branding website will have you well versed on a number of trending marketing topics in minutes. From inspirational entries like quotes and pictures to practical articles like how to assemble an effective press kit, David has seen nothing but success since his company launch. Find out more in today’s YEDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I run my own branding and marketing consulting company called Legendary Branding. I work with clients on building their brand, launching products, and creating and executing marketing strategies.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I went out on my own in May of this year; just five years out of school. I always knew, deep down, that I needed to run my own show. My family is very entrepreneurial and a breed of hard workers. Plus, I’ve always had success doing things my way. And with the help of my wife, family and friends, and the stars aligning, I knew it was time.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Best part is having complete control of my success (or failure), working with great clients who allow me to push boundaries and make things happen, and making connections. Most challenging is the day-to-day administration. Booooo admin. Boooo it I say!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Running one of Calgary’s most unexpected branding shops with some great people and having an absolute blast doing it.
What does success look like to you?
When people in high places know your name. When you see the results you were hoping for. When you know you’ve learned from your mistakes. When your family finally understands what it is that you do.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
May 5th, 2011 – I quit a well-paying job, with an eight month old and a wife at home, to do what I’ve always wanted to do.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Do I?! Here goes: Network your butt off. It’s not ALL about who you know, but it’ll get you places. Push boundaries all the time. Put yourself into uncomfortable situation. It will make you better. Make something happen (totally stolen from Seth Godin). Daily. Keep this in your head. Tell yourself this every morning: “What am I going to do today to make something happen”?
Say thank you. Lots. Written notes work way better than an email. In person is even better. Know how to write well. Become immersed in what you want to do and stick out like a sore thumb. It helps to be different. Embrace your individuality. Don’t be afraid to fail. If you do fail, admit to it. Failures are our best opportunity to make things awesome again. Learn from it.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
YWCA of Calgary and their Sheriff King Home because no woman should have to put up with what some women put up with. UEnd:Poverty, because it’s a local organization helping end extreme global poverty in a unique way. Movember. And our local campus radio station CJSW.
What to you is notable?
Notable is leaving your mark in a positive way, no matter what it is you do, who you are, or where you live.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
A very well used black iPhone 4.