Tools of the Trade is an AgencySpy feature to help highlight the many tools that help make advertising and marketing folks successful. The tools can be anything that helps people perform at their top form, from a favorite drafting table to the best software program to a lucky pen, a vintage typewriter or a pair of headphones.
Next up is Shalanna Clark, head of marketing at digital agency Code3, who is based in Dallas.
Shalanna Clark from Code3 enjoys her stylish and cozy fleece jackets in her remote workday.
What is one tool you use all the time at work, and how does it inspire your work?
The tool I could not do my job without is my extensive collection of fleece zip-up jackets. For me it plays off the expected comfort of working remotely without sacrificing the ritual of “getting dressed” for work. A blanket you wear? Yes, please.
Why is it your favorite?
Living deep in the heart of Texas, our seasons are: hot, hotter, the fourth circle of Hell and football season. However, while my climate may call for tanks, tees and flip-flops, running brand marketing for a full-service digital agency requires a bit more gravitas. For that I rely on my trusty fleece jackets to give a relaxed, calm sense of composure to my appearance on Zoom, day in and day out. I’ve even worn them while hosting our podcast, Crack the Code.
How did you acquire your tool or hear about it for the first time?
I was bitten by the fleece bug in 2021 when planning my first women’s ski trip. I needed a base layer that would be breathable yet warm and I happen to live near a popular sporting apparel brand’s outlet location. The week prior to leaving for the trip, Dallas happened to be snowed in, which called for me breaking out all my ski apparel. Once I experienced the coziness for myself, the rest was history. I became a believer in the power of fleece.
How does it help you be successful?
I find that the more comfortable I am in a space, the more creative I can be. In my line of work that is paramount. Marketers are part-time magicians in the way we maximize resources and results, so not having to think about what I’m wearing to work is a no-brainer.
Does it have sentimental value?
Not right now, but there’s always someday.
Do you think your tool could go TikTok viral? Why or why not?
I think these particular fleeces can go viral anytime among the hybrid and remote work crowd, because people are always looking for ways to dress appropriately for virtual meetings without sacrificing the comforts of working from home. It’s a win-win.
We want to know what tools you use to make you successful. If you’d like to contribute or know someone who would want to be featured in Tools of the Trade, contact kyle.obrien@adweek.com and fill out our survey.