The SMZ Q&A: Pam Renusch

July 16, 2020
July 16, 2020 Pam Renusch

The SMZ Q&A: Pam Renusch

When it comes to personalized Zoom backgrounds, Pam’s bright pink backgrounds are hard to miss. And they’re a perfect match to the way our EVP/Group Account Director shows up each and every day – positive, upbeat and always stylish.

 

What was your first job? And what did you learn from it?

Market Research intern. So I learned right away how important consumer feedback and input is to the overall marketing process. And how much work it is to get people to answer surveys over the phone.

 

How do you stay inspired?

Optimism! I try to see the positive in each situation and each new challenge. I strive to do things even better the next time – or in a new and different way. I like working with other people and learning from and being inspired by them. I’m happy – I love what I do and let that push me forward.

 

What’s a brand you can’t live without and why?

Dubble Bubble! I’m a multitasker and chewing gum somehow helps me process. And even though it’s so short-lived, the first few seconds of a fresh piece of bubble gum are magical!

 

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received?

Never make emotional or rash decisions – calm down, stop and think, take a break – and then reconsider the situation and the best course of action.

 

What word or phrase do you most overuse?

Professionally speaking: “efficient and effective” is one of my favorite go-to phrases. Personally: SUNSCREEN – shouted all in caps. Spent too many years without it and am now paying the price. So I’m making up for lost time and making my children believers as well.

 

What new skill or capability have you developed recently?

Google slides presentations.

 

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

“Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself” (I would like to be Kimmy from My Best Friend’s Wedding)

 

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

Mind reading. How many times have we all said (to our children or spouses or co-workers) “I’m not a mind reader” … but what if we could be…

 

Who’s your favorite noisemaker?

Amy Sherman-Palladino.  She’s brilliant, funny, a pop culture reference genius and responsible for some of the best female characters on TV. I am in awe of her dialogues.

 

Today, the world needs more…

Adaptability and we’re certainly rising to the occasion. We’re all being pushed out of our comfort zones right now – learning to adapt to all new ways of doing just about everything.