Dec 16, 2009

Awards

We have been luxuriating in the warm glow that surrounds achieving success at a major industry event. On the custom content side of the business that time comes around each November when the Pearl Awards—hosted and sponsored by the Custom Publishing Council—are announced. When I worked in the ad business there was always much angst about these types of awards—which are variously seen as “great for clients,” ”great for the agency,” “self-serving,” “a great vindication of our work,” “a waste of time” or “a great morale booster.”

The truth is that it’s all of these things and none of them. We all need accolades and self-affirming rewards from time to time—in our work lives and in our personal lives. It seems to me that being recognized by your peers is fundamental to the human condition. So, whether you’re the marketing manager at the client or the account director at the agency, being Southwest Airlines and beating out Lexus Magazine and Acura Magazine brings you pleasure of being best in class, vindication that you’ve done your job well and a brief moment in the sun internally and externally.

And it’s hard to argue with a diploma on the wall and a fancy piece of sculpture on your desk. Ask any doctor…!

Posted By: Craig Waller