I’ve had the good fortune to work in three completely different markets. I started my career in Toronto, then Vancouver, then Halifax and now back in Toronto. Scott has asked me to write about how things differ in Toronto compared to the Halifax market. Here are three things that stand out to me but I’m sure there are others.
The number one difference I’ve noticed since moving back to Toronto is how much more competitive it is. You can’t be a seat warmer, you have to produce or you’ll be replaced. There is no room for laziness. People come and go quickly around here.
The second thing is how much bigger the budgets are. We had to be much more resourceful in Halifax to produce good work on shoestring budgets. I’m always amazed when I hear people complaining about how small the budget is because we would make it happen for half that in Halifax and still produce solid work.
The final thing that separates Toronto and Halifax is the number of options that exist in the Toronto market. It’s great to have so many choices and it keeps it a very competitive place. Competition is a good thing.
Mike Jones / Art Director
Since 1998 Mike has worked for top agencies in Toronto, Vancouver and Halifax. Over the years he has gained valuable experience working on a wide range of clients. Currently he works at Due North Communications for clients such as: LCBO, Goodyear, H&R Block and 3M.
Mike has been recognized at many national and international award shows such as: Marketing, ADCC, National Advertising Awards, Applied Arts, Extras, New York Festivals, London International Awards and the Bessies to list a few.