Beth Howard

Who had the biggest influence on your career & why?

JR Sterling. He took me under his wing at the start of my advertising career, and became the most important career and life mentor. He challenged me to think big, think out of the box, and have the courage to act on my ideas and instincts. His influence has pushed me well beyond my expectations for personal and career growth. I hope to be in a position to give back this kind of career support to individuals who cross my path now that I have been in the business for so many years.

What was your most embarrassing career moment? (marketing business)

Well, I'm too embarrassed to tell you.

Share a great client story.

After working with a MAJOR national brand for several years, I was asked to bring in my team to meet with the greatly revered CMO. It was a huge compliment to us because he was generally completely inaccessible. With no direction on an agenda, we prepared an informational overview on his competitors, rather than focus on our own bells and whistles. He respected our approach and content enough that we were invited to come back on a monthly basis to give him workshops. We did these with no agenda of our own. We earned his respect and trust; and as a byproduct our business doubled within 12 months of the initial presentation. Overtime, we found ourselves at early morning breakfasts with him and on the golf course. It's an example of how keeping the client's perspective in mind and serving their needs above all else causes a win-win. It pays off to do the right thing.

What attracted you to DMN3?

That's easy. DMN3 is an agency that offers such a talent base and energy that is extremely attractive to me. In addition, DMN3 is creating the perfect blend of traditional direct marketing strategies with the quickly evolving world of Interactive Services. The opportunity to be a part of creating that unique blend is hugely enticing.

What is your method for developing creative solutions for your clients?

Listen, listen, listen. Listen to client needs, listen to market demands, and listen to my team in a collaborative setting.

In your opinion, what makes a great brand?

Focus…Context…Meaning…Distinction…Simple…Exclusive…Connection.

What driving career goals are you still pursuing?

I am in constant pursuit of continuous learning and growth.

Name at least one talent that you wish you could master?

Patience.

If you were marooned on a desert island, what would you miss most?

My family (which includes my poodle).

What food helps you think creatively?

Pasta.

What is your favorite sports team & why?

I have a favorite tennis champion, does that count? Rafael Nadal. His approach epitomizes efforts that lead to greatness: Talent. Training. Focus. Energy. Optimism. Persistence.

Name your biggest frustration.

Road blocks.

Tell us about your pets.

I absolutely adore Lucy Belle, my tiny black poodle. She was an unexpected "gift" that I wasn't sure I wanted at the time; but she didn't have a home. She has been an amazing companion from the beginning, giving endless unconditional love and snuggles! Turns out that I didn't rescue her – in a way, she rescued me.

Describe your childhood and include where you grew up.

I have great parents and three siblings - we are all very close. During our childhood we lived in England and had the chance to travel often throughout Europe giving us tremendous learning experiences. As a boisterous American, I managed to stir up my fair share of trouble while attending an all girls boarding school.

What is your all-time favorite TV program? (on-air or not)

House.

What is your least favorite TV program?

Locked Up Abroad

When you're not working, what do you do for fun?

Travel, sailing, yoga, cooking, art museums and the symphony.

Name your three favorite websites.

Livingsocial.com – who doesn't love a great deal?
LinkedIn.com – ahhhhh, business networking on steroids!
NYTimes.com – we all need some well-written news, right?