028: Jim Carlton, Creative Consultant at Ariel Investment, Former Chief Creative Officer of Geometry in Chicago

09/16/19 • 56 min

Today’s episode marks a first in the coming expansion of the Dear Art Producer podcast’s format to include different roles in the creative process.

Jim Carlton joins the show to share his experience on a breadth of subjects from his perspective on the changes the industry has seen, to how to establish company culture, as well as some interesting tips and what he’s currently involved in.

Key Takeaways

[:31] Heather introduces Jim Carlton and shares how they met years ago.

[2:25] Jim is the perfect person to talk to about the creative process, but before diving into that, Heather asks where he finds his inspiration daily.

[7:09] What is the one thing Jim does that surprises people? He shares the story of one lunch he shared with colleagues who floored him with their own surprising secrets!

[10:29] Perseverance, self-knowledge, and fear of unhappiness drove Jim to forego one path and jump on the one that took him to his first job in advertising.

[17:21] Jim and Heather touch on the changes they’ve seen since they started. Jim talks for both the client and agency perspectives starting with the 3G acquisitions’ budget cuts, to digital and technology as well as a few more examples that underpin the blurring lines and roles in the creative industry.

[24:21] What are the main differences between boutique agencies and ones that are held by large companies? Jim shares his experience of both.

[28:54] Jim share what company culture means to him and how he managed to implement it at Geometry.

[33:24] What is Jim doing for Ariel Investments — who are looking for a refresh — and why!

[38:30] Heather asks Jim what the creative process looks like for a creative; he offers what he thinks may be the most useful for listeners to know.

[41:35] Getting Jim’s attention is in the details and it’s all about people. He shares an example about one particular photographer.

[44:57] Heather and Jim talk about the importance of relationships and the difference between IQ and EQ.

[48:33] Cooperation is critical to Jim for making the needle move, and why brainstorms are coming under fire.

[50:27] Heather puts some frequently asked listener questions to Jim: how do you stay relevant and how does someone grab Jim’s attention — he shares his advice for both and it starts with doing your homework.

[55:44] Heather thanks Jim for coming on the podcast, and invites listeners to tune in for the next episode.

Thanks for listening.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front line. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARep’sJournal.com; visit her website for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

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