Entries close for B&T’s 30 Under 30, presented by The Newspaper Works, this month. So if you haven’t entered yet, or nominated a colleague to enter, now is the time to do so.
Previously we’ve got some of the judges comments on what they’re looking for, but here’s what they reckon would make you stand out.
Gaye Steel says those who fight the ‘good’ fight will pop out to her. “Planning and collaboration, results focused aligned to key priorities in order to achieve business success,” she says. Along with “managerial courage, open and supportive to creative ideas that push boundaries”.
As much as you might be trying to stand out, for Denis Mamo, executive creative director of UrsaClemenger says the opposite is what makes him notice someone.
“Someone that’s not trying too hard to stand out will probably grab my attention,” he says.
“I’m always amazed at the credentials and qualifications some of these young stars have gathered in their short career. And that doesn’t come without a huge amount of confidence. A decent dose of talent, ambition and audacity with a touch of humility would also be welcome.”
And it’s not all about yourselves, says Carolyn Maloney, talent and people consultant at MAD people (Media and ADvertising people).
“Many submissions are very subjective,” she says. “They tell their side of the story rather than providing objective, measurable, factual content on what they have achieved and what they have contributed to their clients, the agency and to those they have managed and developed.
“It’s clear many entrants are still very focused only on what they have done in their careers that is working ‘in’ the business rather than ‘on’ the business. Their perspective needs to be more externally focused rather than on themselves. That’s where their value is heightened and recognition deserved.”
And for Nicole McInnes, marketing director at online radio streaming service Pandora, it’s all about attitude.
“It’s as much what they’ve achieved as the approach they take and the attitude they employ to get there,” she says. “So I’m not necessarily looking for outstanding results or massive over-achievement, although that is nice.
“What makes true talent stand out to me is their approach to uncovering an insight or an issue and then the process and innovation they apply to solve it. And humility and a willingness to learn and grow, there is nothing worse than a 20-something who thinks they know everything!”
Enter the events here.
