News >> Nead Featured in Cleveland Plain Dealer "At Work"

Cleveland Plain Dealer - October 14, 2007

Mark A. Nead
Age: 37
Partner, Co-Founder
Boondock Walker, LLC
Cleveland, Ohio

Best thing about my job: The opportunity to do something I'm truly passionate about. Each day brings a new challenge, a new opportunity. Never once have I considered my occupation a "job." And our coffee/martini bar isn't so bad either.

Biggest challenge: As a brand strategy and experienced design firm, we require a team with many varied disciplines. These include writers, strategists, designers, planners, facilitators and programmers. We're very conscious of the culture we're working to develop, so it's essential that our team have strong chemistry. It can be a challenge finding that ideal fit.

Biggest surprise: I'm pleasantly surprised at the volume of opportunity that exists in the branding arena, especially among service-based firms. Let's face it, we're in an experience economy, and businesses realize they need to pay close attention to who they are as organizations, and how this plays into delivering their brand promise.

I worry about: I try to avoid worry, although this can be easier said than done. More than worry, I'd say I can be anxious. Business requires one to wear many hats, which can certainly make it difficult to close the door at the end of the day. But it's important to manage the emotion and not let it consume you.

Most important lesson learned: Align with people who share your values, be it partners, clients, employees or contractors.

Best advice I ever got: Create a business that serves you, rather than one that you serve.

Parting shot: Walk the walk.