August 16|2008

Dear Jancy:  I'm working as a a senior copywriter in Asia. I've been with my company for 3 years and things are going fairly well. There is still growth. However... Recently, I am feeling restless. I am having thoughts of trying to experience advertising in a foreign country. Maybe I can learn and grow more to fast track my experience. But on another standpoint, things are not that bad where I am now. I may regret leaving.. but I may regret not leaving. I am confused! In your opinion, should I acknowledge my feelings of stepping into the unknown and leaving my comfort zone? Or maybe I just need a vacation?

Asia is booming in our industry and here in North America we envy the economy and the good things that go with it for advertising. It never hurts to check out what else might be available out there; why not get your portfolio together online and send it to CD's at agencies you admire for feedback, locally and anywhere you're interested in? Maybe a happier experience awaits in another spot in your city. If you want to relocate for the joy of a new experience in another country, go for it. Meanwhile you can always be trying to do better where you are. If you aren't producing great work, ask your CD for better accounts/ a better partner/ advice on how to perform better---whatever you perceive your barrier to greatness to be, the first step should be a frank talk with your boss. Nothing changes? You can come up with great ideas for other accounts at your agency proactively. Your CD will appreciate the effort and any client loves to see ideas from their agency that could help their business. There's no down-side to working harder and you may get more good work into your portfolio that way too.