Tools of the Trade is an AgencySpy feature to highlight the many tools that help make advertising and marketing folks successful. The tools can be anything that lets you perform at your top form, from your favorite drafting table to your best software program to a lucky pen, a vintage typewriter or a pair of headphones.
Next up is Angela Seits, head of strategic planning and insights at digital agency PMG.
Angela Seits from PMG uses her earbuds to engage in ‘walking meetings.’
What is the name of the one tool you use all the time at work—and how does it inspire your work?
“Walking meetings,” usually made possible by PowerBeats Pro or EarPods.
Why is it your favorite?
Working in L.A. with teams distributed across multiple time zones and office hubs, my Zoom time has increased exponentially. I started booking “walking meetings” with my direct reports and experimenting with meeting apps that transcribe our conversation. This allows our team to stay connected while getting some much needed screen-free time in nature.
How did you acquire your tool or hear about it for the first time?
I was talking about Zoom fatigue on Twitter and several people suggested walking meetings and new apps for hands-free notes such as @meetwithspot.
How does it help you be successful?
Taking “walking meetings” outside switches on a different part of my brain—it helps me think creatively, stay present in a conversation and feel more connected with my co-workers. It also increases my productivity. I feel refreshed and ready to tackle tough projects afterward.
Does it have sentimental value?
I absolutely love what I do, but my number one career regret is that I’ve chosen a field that keeps me indoors at a computer. Walking meetings show that it’s possible to be productive outdoors—and the future of work is about creating space for collaboration, wherever that happens.
Do you think your tool could go TikTok viral?
I don’t know if walking meetings are going to catch on across corporate America, but they should. “Hot Girl Walks” were such a viral TikTok phenomenon earlier this summer that they inspired our entire team to institute “Wednesday Wellness Hour.” It’s not just about walking, it’s about being intentional with your time, moving your body and feeling good about yourself.
We want to know what tools you use to make you successful. If you’d like to contribute or know someone who would want to be featured in Tools of the Trade, contact kyle.obrien@adweek.com and fill out our survey.