Philippa is the Chief Investment Officer at Wavemaker
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1. Why did you choose advertising/marketing as a career path?
I fell into it, but haven’t looked back. I stay because I genuinely believe I work in the world’s most influential industry and adore that I’m in a position to drive positive change.
2. What's the best advice you'd give to your younger self who's just started their career?
Stop taking yourself so seriously and always remember what matter most to you in life.
3. What do you look for when hiring young people?
Passion. It can’t be taught.
4. How do I make my resume stand out?
It’s undoubtedly mine. If I was to remove my name at the top, it would still read as me on a page.
5. What skills have been most beneficial for you?
Communication skills. Not just written and verbal, but listening too. The latter is the most important by a mile.
6. Do you need a degree?
No. You need an appetite to learn.
7. What was a key lesson you learnt in your career to date?
Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
8. Have your reasons for joining the industry changed over time?
My reasons for staying have. I’ve always enjoyed the work, the people, and the perks. But it’s only in the past 5 years I’ve truly appreciated how influential our industry is, and the opportunity for us to collectively make the world a better place.
9. Have you ever failed? How did you react?
Many a time have I failed. By default, I am my own worst enemy - I hold myself to a high standard and can be tough on myself when I get it wrong. I need to continually remind myself that making mistakes come part and parcel with keeping my learning curve steep.
10. If you had the chance to re-do your career knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?
Slow down and listen more.