Van der Spuy: I live in the Northern Suburbs where gardens and animals are a-plenty, and work in Sea Point, a mere 200m from the Promenade – one of my absolute favourite places in the world. I tend to play equally in both.
Van der Spuy: My creative and hardworking team. Without them I would not be able to implement the exciting communication strategies or identify relevant, take-notice-worthy angles on behalf of our clients. We are a small team with a lot of brain-and-execution power.
Van der Spuy: I believe my training ground, without my knowledge at the time, started when I waitressed straight through school. I had to interact with people, help them with their problems and execute a solution (1. Greet, 2. Order, 3. Food). Thereafter, I moved into the wedding industry, while completing my BTech in PR, part-time. After a few years, I got the opportunity to work at an award-winning hotel as PR executive where I was reminded of the importance and impact of a smile as well as attention-to-detail. This is also where I learned that everyone has a story to tell, they just need someone to listen.
Little did I know that PR at an agency is what would make my heart flutter with excitement! Here I am, able to live out my dream of telling other people’s stories, sharing ideas, thinking creatively and meeting amazing, highly influential individuals. Securing media exposure makes me jump with joy – I get so happy; every time!
In the over five years I’ve been in industry, I can be super sure of one thing: your career chooses you, you don’t choose it. Just let it be and enjoy the ride!
Van der Spuy: Gosh, there are so many, but if I had to pin-point a few, they would be: my life in general – I have been accused of being irritatingly grateful #LifeGoals, my fiancé, our dogs (Eddie and Eva), exercise, my friends and family, Brandnew Creative and the awesome team that comes with it, as well as excellent food and wine.
Van der Spuy: I love the people! It really is as simple as that. I try and connect with as many people as possible on a daily basis; and I try to learn something from them. I love the hard work you have to put in to reap the rewards. I truly appreciate every single conversation I have, as this is the way I learn and grow.
Van der Spuy: My day starts at 5:30am with a run or gym. I leave quite early, travelling around 1.5 hours to the office every day, so I use this time to be inspired by podcasts. Currently, I’m obsessed with the CreativeMornings podcast as well as ‘The way I heard it’ – short stories told by a narrator.
When I get to the office, it’s coffee first, and then:
Van der Spuy: My voice and the ability to use it. PR is all about engaging with others and telling stories. I am grateful I have the gift of speech!
In addition: Media, social media, Outlook, PPT and Google Docs.
Van der Spuy: I am working on various fun clients, including: HQ Restaurant, Black Key Diamonds, Natura Sugars, TomTom and Coca-Cola Craven Week 2016.
Van der Spuy: Early in the morning, while training and while driving (and listening to podcasts).
Van der Spuy: Does telling cheesy jokes count? I’m such a dork.
Van der Spuy: I am most certainly a technophile. I love new technology, new gadgets and new inventions. That’s what I love about my client, TomTom, they are leaders when it comes to navigation and fitness technology.
Van der Spuy: Loads of photos of my dogs, fitness and daily inspirations as well as a lot of wedding ideas as I’m getting married in November, most likely including candles, fairy lights and the colour gold!
Van der Spuy: Try and absorb every single thing you can when you start out, ask questions, don’t be scared or shy (but don’t be too in-your-face and loud!) Work hard, offer your assistance, always have a notebook and pen by your side (if it’s glittery in colour, I’ll hire you) and most importantly, take criticism with a pinch of salt. You won’t understand it then, but when you’ve been in industry long enough – you’ll know why!
Simple as that. Click here for more on Van der Spuy and follow @janavdspuy on Instagram and Twitter for dog posts and food pics. #DoubleWhammyWinning.
*Interviewed by Leigh Andrews.
