In our second edition of Inside AE, we continue to give you a behind-the-scenes look into our Dallas digital marketing agency. We had a chance to sit down with our Creative Director, Roz Theesfeld, who was excited to talk about all things branding strategy and career advice!
How long have you been in your role?
I have been in the creative field for nearly 28 years and truly started at the bottom as a Graphic Designer to Art Director and then Creative Director, which I have now been for 18 years.
What are some ways you think brands miss the mark when rebranding themselves?
To me, brands miss the mark when they don’t spend the time to discover themselves.
What are some strengths of AE creative that other teams lack?
The integration of creative, technology and social media. We truly have a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality and aren’t afraid to get dirty. A true teamwork attitude and pride in what we do, leaving egos at the door. It’s truly the most effective team I’ve ever worked on in 30-something years.
What are your favorite brands that inspire you?
Of course, Apple. When it first came out it was the love of my life. You could easily understand what they wanted to say. When a brand can easily communicate to an audience, it opens the door in such an effective way. Another is Anthropology, who sells a very expensive product but the branding strategy they use shows the power of creativity.
What is one mistake you think brands can make?
They want something “different” but end up copying another brand. You can’t be afraid to take a risk if you truly want to be unique.
What are some 2018 goals you have for AE clients?
Websites are not just websites, so we’re trying to make them work harder for the client. We don’t just want people to visit websites, we want them to be where users can stay a little longer.
What inspired you to get into a creative role?
I loved to draw when I was little, although I was very bad. (I still am to this very day.) But my art was always very unique, to me anyway. It has always been very natural to put something on a page for me.
What is some advice you have for young creatives?
Learn to manage the time you spend on your creative. The creative process runs on a clock. Don’t take the work you produce personally. If you are able to take your emotions out of what you’ve produced, you can truly listen to what people are saying.
What is one piece of advice you would give brands in 2018?
This is the most exciting time for any brand, big or small. Get into the digital marketing world as quickly as you can. Get current with your brand and audience. Utilize the feedback you are able to get from your audience and what channels are best to reach them. Don’t be afraid to fail, but fail quickly and get back up.
Are you ready to take your branding strategy to the next level? Contact us today to work with one of the best creatives in town! Whether it’s creative design or social media marketing, Agency Entourage and our team of minds are ready for a challenge.
