A small-town girl from Northwest Ohio, Lauren Hartman had no plans to venture from her 3-stoplight town of Bluffton, Ohio. Luckily, Lauren made a few life-changing moves, and the marketing communications world has benefited immensely. From The Ohio State University, to Ecuador, to Southern California, and back to Columbus, Lauren has accumulated a vast array of marketing experience over the last decade.
Recently promoted to Director of Account Management of Marketing Works, Lauren showcases her strong work ethic and quality of work through management of the account service group, overseeing account operations and assisting with new business development opportunities. I had the opportunity to speak with Lauren about her marketing career, among other topics.
If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Honest, funny and high-energy.
When you were younger, what career did you see yourself pursuing?
Until the age of 18, I actually thought I’d be a stay at home mom. My mom convinced me to go to Ohio State, where I studied strategic communications, and after graduation, I went to California.
Do you play any instruments?
I was in the marching band in high school and played the flute and piccolo. We even marched in the parade at Disney World. At one point, I wanted to try something new, and decided to play the tuba. I was really, really bad.
What is your favorite book?
I have a lot of favorite books. But because of where I’ve been and where I’d like to go, I’d have to say either “Oh, the places you’ll go,” by Dr. Seuss or “Footnotes,” by Kenneth Cole.
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far?
My biggest accomplishment is not allowing myself to be complacent. I’m very Type-A, and I think it is an accomplishment to not let my personality type drive my decisions; I’m always pushing to explore.
What has been your inspiration for a career in marketing, specifically agency life?
I originally wanted to work in corporate marketing, working for one client and really getting to know them. In California, I worked for a firm that had a corporate feel and structure, but the flexibility of an agency. When I decided to come back to Columbus in early 2014, I was actually heading away from the agency life, but really aligned with the values and goals of Marketing Works. It was an easy decision to work here.
What is your favorite part of Marketing Works?
I really enjoy the variety of the clients. I also like the team atmosphere, both internally and with the clients. Once trust is established with a client, and we’re essentially an extension of their team, we can really give anything a shot, and that’s the great part about this industry.
If you could have an endless supply of any food, what would it be?
Whole wheat goldfish.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is either Cheryl Sandberg, the author of ‘Lean In,’ or my mom. My mom raised two kids pretty much on her own, all while attending school and receiving her Master’s Degree. I really don’t know how she did it all.
Would you rather have spaghetti hair or marshmallow eyes?
Spaghetti hair, you can eat it, duh.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Challenge yourself to be 10 percent happier. Change your fear of failure into something that empowers you.
Do you have any personal or professional advice for other people?
There are a few. First, don’t be too serious. Even when you, or your supervisor or a client are freaking out, it’s not life or death; it’s not that serious. Second, the work habits that you establish now will stick with you forever. Don’t live to work. It doesn’t make you a slacker.
What is your favorite quote?
Be the change that you wish to see in the world.
If you could be any animal, what would it be and why?
I would definitely be a monkey. They are quick learners and sociable. They also develop meaningful relationships, live in groups and are very intelligent animals. Plus, who wouldn’t want to swing from trees?
We hope you enjoyed learning about Lauren and her journey to Director of Account Management with Marketing Works. Please join us in congratulating Lauren in the comments below!