Only 23 years old, Jennifer Stack has an unbelievable educational background. We’re not sure how she managed in such a short amount of time, but she has an impressive BA in Communications, an MA in Marketing Communication and an MSc in Marketing Strategy. After all that, she now works at advertising agency henderson bas kohn, contributing to a Toronto-based award-winning agency on a daily basis in today’s YPD…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
My job is to make magic and solve problems (both current and potential). As a Social Media Strategist at the ad agency henderson bas kohn, I work with blue chip clients developing, implementing, and sustaining their digital identities and initiatives. Any element that falls under the umbrella of social and digital media is part of my area of expertise. Since the industries and societies are constantly evolving, it makes for one wild ride!
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I always knew I wanted to be in a fast pace ”rock ‘n roll” environment. I love versatility, consistent change, and challenges, so advertising was a natural path.
I pursued working at henderson bas kohn because the agency has quite the reputation! It is a raw, real, and rare culture that enables me to grow both personally and professionally across an array of ambitions. It’s a place full of people and experiences that I will always remember and appreciate.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Every day is the best! There is not one particular moment that is the highlight of my day. There are countless moments – That’s what happens when you do what you love. The most challenging part is that infinite time is non-existent. There are countless pieces of content and a world of platforms out there and it is one amazing whirlwind reading every post and tweet and interacting with all the emerging technology.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
The thing about 5 year plans is they limit you. Who knows what future industries, technologies, or markets will exist in 5 years or even 1 years time! As many Clash fans will tell you, the future is unwritten. I keep my eyes and ears open for opportunities to improve and expand my perspective of the world. So all I can say for certainty is that I will continue to be a resource to my community and I intend to still be learning and evolving in all aspects.
What does success look like to you?
Success is a journey for sure. It’s funny because so many people chase it as if it can be caught. I suppose it can be a frame of mind, too. For me, success is always trying to advance. There is no gold standard in my eyes because I know perfection does not exist. There is only a drive: “Let’s do something amazing today!”
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
This one is pretty funny. While I’ve been in some pretty high stakes situations that have gone my way, I have to admit that so far the most memorable career milestone has been a private one. I remember I was interning at the time and someone asked me to provide an informational interview to an acquaintance of theirs who had come across my LinkedIn profile. It’s very flattering and remarkable to be asked by a total stranger for career and life guidance. Imagine that your words can impact someone else’s path – it is pretty magical and significant.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Absolutely! Be brave, because your time is now! Don’t be afraid of making mistakes, that’s how you learn, after all. People will try and tell you that you need so many years of experience to do something and that is a dirty lie. What you really need is courage and perseverance. Just look at start-ups or the $50 billion network that is Facebook. Wherever you are in your life and whatever you have, make the best of it and follow your dreams. It’s never too late or early to try, so get started!
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Charity is a very valued concept in my life because I was raised to be conscious of others and proactive in the face of adversity, even if it is not my own. I believe it can be formal and informal and should be extended throughout the different facets of a person’s day to day, whether it is helping a stranger in the subway or giving your time through an authorized organized action. At this time I actively support the United Way of Toronto, The Junior League of Toronto, The Robertson House and The Aids Committee of Toronto. These organizations understand the importance of extending their resources and I believe in their efficiency and purpose. They are all very welcoming and appreciative of volunteers, so I encourage those interested in philanthropy to check out their websites.
What to you is notable?
The most diverse people inspire me. Things are inspiring too, but they always link back to their creators. So in short, to me you are notable if you inspire and everyone has the potential to make others do a double take and think “WOW!”
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone for function and rotary phone for style!
You can follow Jennifer on Twitter @JenniferKStack