In order to become a working member of society again, I started a new job as an Account Executive at a magazine that targets local auto dealers for their revenue. One would think that in an economy where in the last two weeks, Chrysler has declared bankruptcy, GM is closing half of thier dealerships nation wide, and brands such as Saturn and Pontiac have been abandoned that there would be little resistance in selling advertising space to paniced dealer owners and general managers. For the first time since I have started this job, my commissions are equal to what I was making on unemployement. Ironic isn't it? It is really making me second guess my decision to come on board in this capacity. Afterall, creating beautiful pieces of advertising is much different than selling them.
So, here is where my optimism kicks in. Dealerships historically see a dramatic up-tick in sales during their summer months. Translating to more revenue and hopefully slightly bigger advertising budgets. The loss of under-producing dealerships thins the herd, but may increase traffic at the remaining stores - again, hopefully padding the pockets of the decision makers and giving me room to grow.
Although the environment in which I have signed myself up to sell in is extremely difficult, I am hoping at the end of this I have polished my marketing acumen, my ability to budget, forcast and make recommendations to clients, and of course gained more marketability for myself. Those things are universal and will translate as I go forward on this crazy career ride.
