Make the Most of Your Junior Years in Advertising with “Junior”
“Junior: Writing Your Way In Advertising” by Jeff Goodby, is an advice book, a text book, and a book of inspiration for those of us who are breaking into the creative advertising space.
Kemeny talks about his experience in advertising from bad pitches to embarrassing moments. His conversational tone makes it feel like words of wisdom from a career mentor. I personally love the look of the book. Hardcover, electric blue, with copy embossed, makes for a perfect coffee table book, with a page layout that makes it a fun read for those who are more visual people. It’s a quick read, but that’s for its benefit because that means it’s a quick re-read and re-read and re-read. I find myself returning to the book when I’m seeking advice, a new direction, or creative inspiration.
Separated into twelve chapters that cover topics from breaking into the industry to writing headlines that sell and are interesting. Being that I’ve wrapped my second year as a copywriter in advertising, I was really glad that this book was recommended to my by one of our creative leaders. I found that this book has come in handy when I’m at my wits in with a specific project, especially if it’s landing that end line for a script.
This book has really helped me to become a better creative in my industry. I personally am a terrible presenter. I can spend hours upon hours on a creative concept, work with an Art Director to build the perfect deck, pull on strategy to give amazing insight, hell even ask Music to give the perfect track, but when that creative review meeting comes up, all my confidence and self-assurance goes out of the window. I feel like I’m constantly worried that this was some stupid idea and I basically kill it before the creative directors have the chance to. But reading “Juniors has helped me to look at presenting differently. With it’s straightforward writing and anecdotal moments, I don’t feel crazy for feeling how I do at meetings. I’m learning to slow down, not BS out of a question, and stop talking after something is said. Although I’m still learning to present better, this book is providing me with the road map through it.
If you’re breaking into the creative advertising space, trying to, or have been here for a while, “Juniors” by Thomas Kemeny is a great book to reference especially if you’re a copywriter or want to sell more shit.
