Every so often you come across people who, out of the gate, demonstrate their knowledge base in a unique manner which sets them apart from the crowd. I’ve followed Jason Falls for a couple of years now; his customer focused communications approach is refreshing.
Recently, Jason Falls announced he’s launching his own communications consulting firm. He was also kind enough to give me an early scoop on his news. For those of you who don’t know him, add his blog to your reading list and keep an eye on his new firm.
Congrats on the new venture. Share your motivations for branching off on your own and what this means to you personally and professionally.
More than anything, the move was about taking control of my own destiny. Agency life is great in many ways, challenging in many others. Not being able to determine my own schedule, travel and workload was wearing on me. Being a consultant, I can take on the number of clients I can adequately serve with good work and not be over-extended to the point the work suffers. And on both the personal and professional front it gives me freedom. That’s going to be nice to have.
Who was an early influence on you and what did you take away from them?
I watched my mother work as a newspaper editor, public relations director, and small business owner (a printing company) as a kid, so I grew up around communications. I couldn’t sit still as a kid, so I got a job working at the local radio station when I was 14. A combination of my mom, my first few bosses at the radio station who taught me how to be a broadcaster, and Randy Stacy, the sports information director who hired me as a student at Morehead State are probably my biggest professional influences. Randy taught me humility, believe it or not. I continually proved working for him that I wasn’t as hot stuff as I thought I was.
Who inspires you today and why?
I like people who challenge the thinking instead of regurgitating it. Malcolm Gladwell comes to mind because he fits that description plus he’s a fantastic storyteller. I’ve also become a fan of Leo Babauta of ZenHabits.net because he teaches people how to bring calm to their lives. We need more of that.
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