A confidence boost

Holy shit. Just what in the world was that? Here I am, writing this newsletter from the airport, moments away from flying off to in Amman, Jordan where I hide to sleep. Because it feels like I've been through a whirlwind. FTI and& is over, and it's like I'm hungover without having drunk a drop. I’m so tired. I really am. You know that level of tired where you're not just drained… you're done. 🫠
But amidst the exhaustion, there's also this undeniable good vibe. The thrill of being back in the game, the adrenaline rush, the explosive release after it's all done (and incredibly successful) I forgot how this felt! Damn, rediscovering this intoxicating mix of victory and success? Hell yes, it's unbeatable! 🔥

➡️ Client : FTI and& was extraordinary, but now it's over

I admit, succeeding (yes, I did!) at this assignment for FTI and& truly gave me the confidence boost I needed after stepping away from my role at Maison Slash. People who know, know. Leaving your own company or a key position after years is akin to a personal earthquake. It leaves you struggling with profound questions like 'Who am I?' 'What are my talents?' 'What do I enjoy doing?' 'What will I do with my life?'... hahaha You get the drift. It feels like rebranding yourself. Or, more accurately, reinventing.

Taking on the marcom role for this, let’s say, not-so-simple project turned out to be a fantastic chance. I don’t remember when I heard the first time of PITA. But I really am one (Pain In The Ass). I wear the title with pride now. Apparently, I’m pretty good at talking things through, guiding a team, and making clear decisions. Is it because of me that ‘I’m challenging you’ became a topic in our team bingo? Maybe. Oops.

Then, surprising even myself, I stepped up to lead the opening ceremony’s production. Being in charge, working with an awesome team, facing down a heavingly deadline, helping the director, and nailing the story and timing... I found out I still love this stuff.

The best part of it all? I met some of the nicest people on this project. 💜🧡

➡️ Leadership : trust in a team is the game changer

One of my biggest takeaways from working with the FTI and& team (which I'll genuinely miss) is the profound importance of trust in a team's dynamics. Interestingly, despite not considering myself much of a group person, I've come to appreciate the nuances of fostering trust within productions or teams.

Creating trust begins with listening. It’s as simple as that. It's essential for everyone to hear each other out. When team members feel they can openly share their concerns, or ideas, trust naturally begins to flourish. With trust, the team collaborates smoothly, respects one another, and feels comfortable sharing ideas, confident they won’t face judgment or criticism.

Good leadership isn't just about steering the ship, it’s about creating an environment. Trust me, it’s a game changer!

➡️ Brandlove: smashing assumptions

Getting a confidence boost often starts with how we see ourselves, which influences how others see and treat us, and what opportunities might come our way. That's exactly why this Down Syndrome advert, which is challenging stereotypes and smashing assumptions is so inspiring. It shows that, yes, achieving great things is possible when people believe in you and give you support! It’s a brilliant reminder that with a bit of confidence and encouragement, nothing can hold us back.

The ad is created by an Italian Down syndrome organization called Coor Down, and was released in recognition of World Down Syndrome Awareness Day, March 21. Its tagline, #AssumeICan, is being used by people with Down Syndrome to show that many of the assumptions about their drive and abilities are just that … assumptions.

➡️ Digital Marketing : choose your words wisely

Last months I wrote a ton of newsletters for the client that’s not a client anymore but from which project I learned a lot. (Yesss, I know, last time I talk about FTI. It’s the end of an assignment, just give me that :-))

If you do something regularly, you get better. Practice makes progress, blah blah, but it’s true!

And this hack is also true. Use these three ways to make your call to actions warmer and friendlier. 👇

Et voilà, now I’m definitely shutting up about my FTI adventure. Just this: Hiring an expert means hiring someone who makes difficult things look easy! Mihi, it's done. It's behind me. Does it leave a black hole, or is it just freedom again? The next few weeks will answer this. 🤷‍♀️

Now, I’m taking a holiday. See you next week!

x Ingrid