I have to admit that I'm feeling more obligated than inspired to write this. Stay in touch. And come up with something useful to say these days. Mostly, I'm just amazed this year is almost over. The holidays are almost here. And this "Occupy ____" is lasting this long.

Although it's been close to a month since I've written any new blogs, so much has happened (besides turning 37 the end of October), that I thought you'd like to know.

For one, it's been over 2 months now since I've been writing copy for what some might call a "big time" ad firm here (in Seattle). Although I thought it would be a few days and one assignment, I've been writing copy for over a dozen different projects – for their client – that goes out to tens of thousands of people (and soon millions around the world).

Although I'm not sure where things will lead, I've been happy to say that I've done every kind of copywriting project known to man there – so far writing copy for their clients newsletters, direct mail, a new world-wide campaign and…

Since discovering copywriting a number of years ago, this is probably the happiest and most challenged I've been. With that said, I've learned a few things that have helped me to stay there as long as I have, that I thought I would share before you go and "occupy" the holiday.

It's little nuggets of inspiration that I feel may help you (or your business along) coming into the new year.

Be indispensible – Since day one I've always hit a deadline. Delivered things early. And kept on top of every project always instilling confidence in the project managers and account representatives there that I'll always make things happen.
Show you're interested – Although I started off on a REALLY small project that barely involved copywriting (took only about a week and a half)… the studio manager that got me in there and wanted to work with me, brought me over to "creative," (as one of the two copywriters in that office), and I've been there since. My belief is that I've always showed an interest and let it be known to everyone there how much I love doing what I do and being in that kind of creative atmosphere.
Be creative but be human – There's this thing out there called, "socially awkward." I talked with a friend of mine Ralph who's an author, copywriter and creative director at a boutique agency here in Seattle. Ralph's business has been taking off these past two years and he recently hired his first "full time" designer. When we talked the other day about it, he had the option to hire this one designer that's been doing amazing work for them as a contractor. But Ralph had basically said the reason why he didn't hire him (even though he's SUPER talented), was because he was just "too socially awkward."
Develop relationship with non-decision makers – Let's face it, theres a secretary like Joan in the series "Madmen," that pretty much (secretly) runs the show. Sure you can "kiss the bosses ass," or try and rely on just the great work you put out, but if Joan doesn't like you, it doesn't really mean much. Does it?
Don't take on more work – Working at this ad firm, is basically 40 hours a week. When I started I was trying to finish up two clients projects and since then, probably turned down about 5 other projects only because I knew I'd have to put everything into this one opportunity. Not only that, financially, I didn't need to take on anything else at this time. Emotionally, I also wanted some time off for myself.

So I guess that's it. If you haven't already done so, you might want to check out the new speaking section on "The Kick Ass Copywriter" (TKAC). For those who need a HIGHLY passionate, entertaining and informative speaker for their next group, seminar or live event… I think you'll enjoy what I have to say.

Until next time, have a great holiday and keep kicking ASS!

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I've taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Simplifying great ideas into words that sell, I help businesses stand out from the noise (not just add to it).