Get to know Account Executive Hannah Coutu. We asked Hannah about what keeps her motivated when she’s wrangling multiple clients, complex projects, and wacky creatives every day at Response. Is her personal assistant/dog Murphy her secret weapon? Read on to find out!
How did your career as an Account Exec come to life?
I went to school for baking and pastry arts which is a far jump from the agency life I’m currently living. I pivoted focus in my Sophomore year of college and ended up getting both degrees. One in baking and the other in Advertising and Marketing Communications.
What do you love most about what you do?
I love learning about each of our client’s unique businesses and needs. From military defense to ASL interpreting services and everything in between. It keeps things interesting … even if my algorithm on any given platform is all sorts of mixed up.
What is the most challenging part of working in marketing?
The fast pace. Not only in the day-to-day work but in the industry as a whole. Every day there are new technologies, insights, and information that need to be consumed and learned. It’s also the reason why marketing is so fun 🙂
As a remote worker is there anything you do to enhance your workday and productivity that you would recommend to others?
I make sure to take a break mid-day to walk my dog, Murphy. It clears my head and re-focuses me for the afternoon. Take time to step away from your computer during the day to move your body and refocus your mind, you’ll thank yourself in the long run.
Is there an unexpected area of life you’ve found inspiration for your work in?
You never know where you’ll find inspiration or what will spark an idea. I’m always keeping our clients in the back of my mind no matter what I’m doing. I’ve gotten ideas from expected outlets, but a lot of ideas come to me at night, when I should be sleeping or working out.
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to become an Account Exec?
Put yourself in the shoes of your client and/or team. Always take a step back and think about what the person you’re communicating to is looking for, what their goals are, etc. This sets you up for success whether it’s putting in a task or thinking strategically about a campaign.
What item or items can you not work without?
My planner. I’m super particular about the layout when I pick it out at the beginning of every year. It keeps me organized throughout the day. It’s a true lifesaver that I’d be lost without.
What’s a funny moment you’ve recently experienced while working?
Working from home with a dog can be challenging. I rudely interrupted nap time with a Zoom meeting the other day and had loud snores in the background the whole time.