Before I get myself in a big pickle, I need some advice. The facts: I’m in my 30′s, considering going to ad school and investing quite a bit of money, already have a BA in English, have both writing and art skills. What keeps me from getting too excited is essentially my …
I’m not sure if I know enough to be in ad school
EducationAnswered by Jancy on November 24, 2007
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I need brutal honesty…(like you’re gonna give it to me any other way:) I just started at the Creative Circus with no former collegiate degree, compared to the other first quarter students i feel a bit overwhelmed as to how much knowlege i have about the “Ad world ” That …

Lack of minorities in creative departments
Agency Life, EthicsAnswered by Jancy on November 19, 2007
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Why does the lack of women in creative departments get so much attention in our industry (especially in Canada), but the lack of minorities in creative departments doesn’t?
Do you think it’s because there aren’t as many minorities in high up creative positions to be able to bring light to the topic, unlike the …
Schmoozing vs. Great work
Agency LifeAnswered by Jancy on November 16, 2007
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What’s more important when trying to get ahead in the Canadian ad industry, schmoozing or doing great work? And be honest, none of this PC bull crap if you please.
Doing great work. Honest.
My partner has zero initiative
PartnersAnswered by Jancy on November 15, 2007
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I’ve been in the industry for a bit under a year and things are going pretty well. I’ve got a few big clients to work on and I’m learning a lot.
I’ve only spoken about myself so far which is the problem I’m facing. Whenever it comes to taking the initiative to be proactive, or …

Advertising is murder on you
Agency Life, CareerAnswered by Jancy on November 15, 2007
No Comment
I’ve just moved to being a copywriter from an axe murderer about five months ago. I must say I find the change in lifestyle quite intimidating, people seem to be worried about insignificant issues like deadlines, table manners and client’s concerns. How do you manage to retain your sanity in such an …
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About Jancy
'Jancy' is Janet Kestin and Nancy Vonk, Co-Founders of Swim, a unique “creative leadership training lab for advertising creatives and marketers.” Prior to Swim, Jancy was globally renowned as the Co-Chief Creative Officers of Ogilvy & Mather Toronto, a position they held for thirteen of the twenty years they were a creative duo at the agency. Over the years they've racked up Cannes Lions, Clios, One Show pencils and CA credits, and have lead their shop to two Cannes Lions Grand Prix and a Grand Clio. They've judged CA, Cannes, D&AD, the One Show, the Clios and other prestigious award shows. Creativity named them two of the top 50 creative people of 2008. Known for their outspoken, no-bullshit style and a passion for mentoring juniors, they're ready to give you advice if you're ready to take it.







