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Yeah, this is part of the job, especially early on when you don’t have much say in the work you’re assigned. Most of what we push in advertising comes with trade-offs, whether it’s bad for people, the planet, or both.
But feeling uneasy about it is actually a good sign. It means you’re paying attention.
Over time, you’ll build the experience or start your own consultancy, and that can give you more control. Until then, use the discomfort to get clearer on the kind of work you do want to stand behind. Just make sure you don’t get numb to it.
Bravo!
Pro
You can always ask to be moved off of the account. I’ve seen it done for moral and religious reasons.
You find where your lines are.
I refuse to work on cigarettes and lottery. A petty boss blocked me from working on other new biz until he left.
But I have sold my soul with work on military recruiting. 🤷
Ooh rah 🫠
Mind if I ask what category/vertical it would be for?
You should be up front about your concerns with your boss - honestly it probably isn’t in the best interests of the brand to have someone with a moral dilemma working on it.
See what they say and if the answer’s no, evaluate how deeply conflicted you are and how far you’re willing to go. You’re at will so no one can make you work on something you really don’t want to (but you may need to find another job more aligned with your values)
Come on, you gotta tell us what it is now
Chief
Would you prefer to work on candy brands that target children?
Nope. I personally refuse to accept that. When it’s something I truly feel uncomfortable working on, I’ll ask to be taken off that project. It only happened 2 times in my career and both times it was received with respect.
I’ve worked on lots of questionable accounts. My measure is would I use the product. Soda, fast food, gas powered cars, sports gambling, all yes. I draw my line at military advertising.
Depends on the size and depth of the staff at the agency from a management POV. How deep is your dilemma?
If you are a few years into your career you have enough experience to start looking for a new gig. I personally wouldn’t work at an agency where my core values weren’t aligned. They aren’t going to be a perfect fit but overall are a fit.
There’s a good amount of soul selling you have to do in this industry, but it’s definitely important to determine where the line in the sand is for you. I’ve passed multiple interview opportunities after hearing what accounts they were for.
Rising Star
One thing I find helpful. I make a fist with my right hand, I extend my thumb and pinky and give it a lil shake. Now everything’s whatever.
I would ask to be removed! In my experience, everyone has their different issues, so you probably have coworkers who won’t be bothered by that account and you may be working on something that would bother them.
You sold your soul to the devil when you went into the industry. Now, you must live with the consequences. I recommend disassociation, not giving a flying fuck, and most importantly, remembering it’s all about the paycheck anyway. Follow me for more life tips. 🤣😂🤷♂️