I've had the
unbelievable honor of working for two incredible companies in my
career: GSD&M and Chili's. In one week, I got to listen to
two of my heroes speak: Doug Brooks and Roy
Spence. It's rare that in one day, two icons speak on one
stage and captivate an audience in such a way that no ones leaves
the room they way they came in.
The 2009 People Report Conference on Mixing Money &
Meaning is one of few places where these two icons can come
together. It was this conference that made me think differently
about my career, about my purpose and how the meaning behind what I
do is just as important as the money I make. It was listening
to Roy Spence that made it clear. At the end of the day, it
was all about Purpose.
When it comes to Roy Spence, one thing is certain; he will make
you think. But he will also inspire you. He will
challenge you. And he will ask you - what do you stand
for? What is your purpose? And he means it -
professionally and personally.
I remember that first time I saw Roy's company; GSD&M - Idea
City. I just knew I had to work there. I thought I was
the luckiest girl in the world when they offered me a job.
Then I found out what I was making. I still thought I was
lucky, but lucky and broke. Then I sat in my first employee
meeting and heard the Reverend speak. I was in awe. I
knew then I was at a very special place. And this was a very
special leader.
What I learned in the six years at GSD&M was that Purpose is
everything. What you stand for as a person, as a
GSD&M'er, and as a brand is what matters the most.
I've tried to live that out since that day. Over the years,
I've realized that every company and brand that has been tied to
GSD&M and Roy Spence has stood for purpose. They've been
about something greater than themselves. Their cultures set
themselves apart from the competition and they have always stood
for something more than what they sell to the consumer.
Roy embodies that daily and not only encourages it, but expects it
from every employee and every brand he partners. He is an
inspiration to us all. It was such a pleasure and honor
getting to witness the Reverend again.
It was Roy at his best - motivating, encouraging and funny as
hell. And it all came down at one of the best conferences
I've been to - ever.
Thank you Reverend Roy. And thank you People Report.
You both continue to inspire.
Editor's Note: Kristen Jones is the Senior Marketing Manager
at Chili's and a Member of the Board of Directors for Limbs for
Life. Kristen's specialties include National Promotions,
Branding, Advertising, Marketing, Sports Marketing and Planning,
Music, Social Media, Cause, Event Activation and Production.
Follow Kristen @kris10_jones.