Ahead of our AMG ‘7 Minute Mentor’ speed learning session in Melbourne on May 17, CHE Proximity group creative director Tommy McCubbin shares why he got into advertising and what he looks for in a team member.
TCC: Why advertising as a career?
TM: Because when I was 20, the coolest people in the world were movie stars, then Creative Directors. I was better at ideas than I was acting.
TCC: If you hadn’t pursued this as a career, what else would you have done?
TM: I spend most of time thinking of ways to get out of advertising. So, when I figure that out, I’ll progress it.
TCC: Name three skills or qualities you think you need to stay at the top of your game?
TM: Resilience. Awareness. Being funny.
TCC: What’s the best part of your job?
TM: Ping pong.
TCC: What’s the worst part of your job?
TM: The stuff that happens in between ping pong.
TCC: What’s your most embarrassing career moment?
TM: Anytime you accidentally Reply All to the whole agency. Brace for memes after it happens.
TCC: What’s your career high?
TM: Watching Carlton Draught Slo Mo at the pub before the Grand Final.
TCC: What do you look for in a team member?
TM: They need to have a bit of mongrel in them.
TCC: If you could step back in time and offer yourself just one piece of advice as you started your career, what would it be?
TM: Always be aware. Don’t be afraid of what other people think. Create your own opportunities.