In this magazine spread, Candice explains how Brooklyn Outdoor brings a unique spin to outdoor advertising.
You can read the online version of the article here.
Below are the highlights from the interview on just how Brooklyn Outdoor provides access to unique outdoor inventory:
How do you diversify your solutions that appeal to your target audience?
Each client has a unique brand and client profile. Therefore, it’s essential to make sure each client has an ad campaign that is as individually unique. When clients approach Brooklyn Outdoor to create a campaign, they know they are not working with a traditional advertising company. And, if they don’t, they soon find out. We’re all about creating opportunities where they didn’t exist before. This means looking through a lens that provides a new view on marketing by enlisting local artists to collaborate with national companies.
Describe some of the vital attributes that every CEO should possess.
It’s important for CEO’s to act as influencers, not as managers. CEO’s should act as motivators and modelers, so their employees act in the best interest of their company when they are not around. Leaders should be considerate, trusting and inspiring. It’s vital to not only set goals for employees, but to show the path to achievement.
Most importantly, CEO’s should always maintain a student mentality. Always seek ways to become a better leader – read, listen to podcasts, and attend workshops. They should be the good in the company they want to see reflected through their employees.
What were the past experiences, achievements or lessons that shaped your journey?
One experience that has helped shape my journey is being a mentor. I knew mentorship would come with teaching others, but I didn’t know how much it would teach me in return.
There are situations while mentoring when I need to give confidence boosts and words of encouragement. I find it a lot easier to tell others to remove doubts about themselves than it is to with yourself. This is a reminder to be a little kinder when it comes to self-compassion and confidence. The achievement that has helped shape my journey is the point where our staff went from four to twelve. It has been a challenge and an achievement beyond my wildest dreams.
As much as you try to make the right decisions in business – mistakes are inevitable. One lesson I learned is integrity is key. Instead of looking at mistakes as failures, look at them as learning opportunities. Own up when you mess up and remain forthright. Not every business relation can be saved when these situations happen, but if you remain genuine it speaks volumes about your character.
What were some of the primal challenges and roadblocks that you faced during the initial phase of your journey?
Being an entrepreneur takes a lot of tenacity and determination. With this comes a “do it myself,” type of mentality. Realizing you can’t do it all yourself presents a challenge when you have to learn to let go of control and put trust in someone else.
A roadblock is also presented when your business opportunities are expanding, but you don’t have the financial capital to perform at 100 percent. There is a huge lesson in self-sacrifice for the greater good of your business overall and to be always willing to put your employees and clients first with yourself last.
Where does Brooklyn Outdoor see itself in the near future and how will you catalyze the change?
In the near future I see Brooklyn Outdoor expanding into new locations from coast-to-coast. I foresee our growth allowing for the creation of new roles within the company and the on boarding of new employees. This will allow us to expand our capabilities in OOH advertising and put more investment into events and media.
All of which will be made possible through continuously working to establish and build upon strong client and vendor relations. This will also be the catalyst at which we are able to increase brand awareness and credibility.
What is your advice for the emerging entrepreneurs?
My advice to young entrepreneurs is to find a group of likeminded people to surround yourself with. Having a network of people who are experiencing similar challenges and triumphs reminds you that you’re not alone. It will provide you with a sense of connectedness and a resource for advice and inspiration.
