NEW BRIGHTON, MINN. (Jan. 6, 2010) – Risdall Marketing Group (RMG) welcomed 25 students from the University of Minnesota Advertising Club into the agency in December for a day of speakers, agency discussion and knowledge sharing.

The day gave Ad Club students a chance to interact one-on-one with marketing professionals within their specific area of interest. Some students met with creative staff, while others got an account service perspective. “The break-out sessions were especially useful for me,” said Caroline Rudzinski, co-president of Ad Club.

RMG had some of its top leaders present information pertinent to their area of expertise and take questions from participants. Tom Wilson, Josh Dahmes, Holly Matson, Jim Sandstrom and Kevin O’Callaghan discussed account planning, creative, online marketing, social media and public relations with the students.

The student group demonstrated their intelligence and passion for advertising throughout the entire day. “What’s so cool is that the students we had this year are so smart,” said John Risdall, chairman of RMG. “This was the smartest group we have had to date; they were able to name 26 Minnesota PR, interactive and marketing agencies, whereas other groups in the past could only name 18.”

“On many occasions, I have been told what not to do,” commented Brian Bernier, a student at the Journalism School at the University of Minnesota, in a letter following his experience as an Intern for a Day. “Risdall’s culture and people told me what to do, a simple, encouraging difference in communication that went a long way for me.”

“It’s a pleasure to get to know and work with the Journalism students at the University of Minnesota”, continues John. At RMG, we’re always looking for people that “get it”. This letter exemplifies the attitude and savviness of the rank and file of J-school students at the University of Minnesota.”

Brian’s Letter

John!
First of all, thank you so much for giving us your insights and sharing your expertise in the field we wish to build our career out of. Talking to several students after the day was over, many of us were impressed by how inviting your company is - not just me.

The question I asked during the "Mentor 2 section" was; "The thing that really appealed to me about your company is that it is both inviting and not intimidating - why did you want to make that culture part of your company vs. a hierarchy approach or a very intimidating atmosphere like many agencies have?"

First of all your answer was perfect - what I gathered from your response is that teamwork is essential and it is hard to have good results when you are a disconnected team which is what a hierarchy model sometimes deals with. Yes, it is important for there to be bosses, executives, etc. but it is more important to have a culture like ours that invited people to work together - and you can't do that unless you have happy and informal atmosphere.

From the minute I walked into your agency I felt welcomed. Heather was the epitome of a welcoming face and made us feel comfortable. Many agencies I have toured made me feel out of place, unwelcomed, and really stupid. Looking around you have gizmos and gadgets, dispensers, plaques, and even more so welcomed me in. I even saw a few people riding scooters, which is seriously one of the most recognizable things I noticed - and loved. I honestly felt unafraid to ask questions - which I asked many - but more importantly I didn't feel like I was being talked at. Instead I felt like the people who spoke were speaking to help me and it came across as if they took a valid interest in what I wanted to do with my life and told me what I have to do to get there.

You have a wonderful company that I would love to work/intern at one day - from now on when I go on interviews, tours, etc. I will think of your company and really compare them to you. Your company is my new goal of what type of place I would like to work at. You have a great, energetic and for lack of a better word...nice team.

Throughout my college experience so far, I have been told to ACT PROFESSIONAL, COMMUNICATE WELL, GET THE BEST GRADES YOU CAN, DON'T DO THIS, LISTEN TO THEM, DON'T WRITE THIS WAY...when I walk into agencies I feel the are saying the same things..."don't do this." Your agency told me to "do this..." A simple difference in communication that made a big impression on me. You didn't tell me what not to do...you told me what to do.

I am highly involved in my second year of NSAC and look forward to doing it again next year where I hope to be president. It is a fun student group and I love it more than my classes. Howard has really taught me some key things to do when you build a campaign and I have taken direction from him as best I can. Risdall has given me a lot of great advice today to go along with what Howard has taught me as well. Your company was so inviting and the culture and atmosphere is something that I want in my career. I wish I could say this more professionally, "but you guys rocked!" All the presenters were ridiculously invested in giving us advice and that among many other things is what separates you from all of the other places and companies I have seen, toured and worked for.

You made a wonderful impression on me and that goes a long way, especially when in 1 1/2 years I will be looking for a full time job, your company will be the one I remember, and will be what I am looking for.

Thank you so much and hopefully I will see you again very soon!
The food was great, too!

Brian Bernier
SJMC - University of Minnesota