Evann and I met three years ago at a Levo League networking event and became fast friends. Evann is creative, determined, and gives great advice. It has been so much fun to watch her blog and career grow over the past three years. I feel really fortunate because I met her and our friend Samantha at a networking event and now we get together around once a month to encourage each other and give helpful advice. I’m excited to be sharing it with you now!
How did you end up at 360i? What was your career path?
When I was an undergrad at Elon University, I was part of an Honors Program that required me to conduct an extensive research project. Completing this project helped me realize how fascinated I am by consumer psychology and digital media. When I graduated from Elon in 2011, I was placed into a two-month Fellows Program at Ketchum Public Relations with the Research & Analytics team. For the next two years, I conducted market research to inform public relations strategy at Ketchum. I now work at 360i, a digital advertising agency. I originally held a research role on the Insights & Planning team but recently created my own role on the Influencer Marketing team.
What is a typical workday like for you? Walk me through your day!
I try to start every weekday with a workout–either a run in Central Park or a boutique fitness class through ClassPass. Next, I get ready for work and grab breakfast (a protein smoothie or fruit with nut butter). I work at 360i from 9:30am-6:00pm. In my new role at work, it’s my responsibility to help select, manage, and measure the success of influencers working with brands. This can range from bloggers to mixologists to photographers. My evening activities vary. Sometimes I meet friends for dinner or attend a networking event, but I might also head home to make dinner and relax. Before bed, I catch up on personal emails and make sure my blog posts for EvannClingan.com are written.
What is your favorite thing about working in digital advertising?
After working for four years in consumer insights, I’ve since had the unique opportunity to create my own role at 360i. I joined the Influencer Marketing team to leverage skills that I’ve developed while blogging. It’s exciting to combine my agency and blogging experiences. I believe influencers will continue to impact how brands approach the digital space.
What advice do you have for someone who wants to work at 360i, or in the advertising industry in general?
Having unique and relevant experiences is key. If your university has a student-run agency or advertising club, join it. Pursue internships at companies that interest you. Make the most of the projects that you’re required to do for classes. It’s also a great idea to keep up with industry news on websites like Mashable, Adweek, Ad Age, and Creativity.
When you’re not working, you are at a fitness class, or working on your fitness blog, Evann Clingan. What tips do you have for managing a career, a blog, and a social life?
I am asked this question almost every day. All of these activities keep me very busy, but I try not to talk about how busy I am because I choose and enjoy this schedule. Rather than finding time (you won’t), you have to make time. I’m a very digital person, but I prefer to use a written Erin Condren Life Planner to keep my schedule. All meetings, workouts, and other obligations are written in my planner. During busy weeks, I even block off time for rest.
I’ve read a lot of studies about the benefits that fitness can have on your career. Do you think that working out regularly has helped your career and your general well-being?
You’re right! There are so many ways, ranging from taller posture to increased alertness, that fitness can positively impact your career. I’ve seen the biggest difference in my confidence. While confidence is difficult to measure, training for and completing my first full marathon in January made me feel like I could do anything. The physical confidence that I gained definitely impacted my relationships and performance at work.
You’ve worked with amazing brands! What advice do you have for bloggers who hope to work with companies?
When I started blogging, I had no idea I’d have the opportunity to work with so many brands over the next two years. At first, I identified smaller brands that I admired and reached out to them with a pitch. My pitch always included an exchange of benefits (i.e. a blog review with photos in exchange for free product). Over time, brands started to find my blog and reach out to me. One of the most helpful ways for me to connect with brands has been through networks like FitFluential and Mode Media. Only partner with brands that feel right for your brand!
What are a few of your favorite workout class in NYC?
This is such a tough question! I’m currently training for my first 200-mile team relay and fifth half marathon. I like to compliment running with yoga, barre, and strength training. My favorite yoga studios are Exhale and Y7 Studio. My favorite barre studio is Flybarre. My favorite strength studios are Uplift, BFX, and Fhitting Room.
How would you define your professional style? What are a few staples?
I’m lucky that I work in a creative environment because my personal style is very casual. My typical uniform is a pair of dark skinny jeans, a bright sweater, and riding boots. More often, you can find me in workout clothes. Right now, my favorite brands are Nike, Sweaty Betty, Lululemon, Athleta, and Oiselle. In my opinion, you can never have too many pairs of quality leggings.
What is on your desk right now?
I love collecting photos of other people’s desks on Pinterest. My office workspace is white with a Varidesk adjustable standing desk. I have accessories from Poppin and dozens of colorful pens. I always have a pair of headphones, my iPhone, a healthy snack, and my Life Planner within reach.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
I love scrolling through Instagram for visual inspiration. It helps me find out about new products, plan blog posts, and meet new people around the world. Let’s connect!
What is your favorite quote?
I’m not sure who said it, but I love this one: “Amazing people do not just happen.”
Thank you, Evann!
Images by Nick Urteaga of Coastal Flicks.
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