The role that marketing and advertising play within our culture has never been as influential as it is in today’s modern industry. Brands have the power to impact opinion, decisions, and the future of our social and physical world. In a society faced with so much uncertainty as we look to the future and its promised challenges, like climate change, a volatile political arena and the growing global hunger crisis, the industry is also faced with great deal of responsibility. Now, more so than ever, consumers are recognizing the industry’s power of influence, and pushing marketers to shift their focus to achieve work that does more than make a profit – it makes a difference.
Millennials seem to lead the charge as consumers have spoken out more so than ever before – they care about causes and social issues that impact everyday life, and they’re willing to spend their dollars on companies whose ideologies align with their own. As result, brands that dial into the hearts and minds of consumers are the ones that will profit, in both business and influence.
During Advertising Week 2016, The Impact Track will introduce a series of sessions focused on unearthing that drive to make an impact on the world, and celebrating the brands that are paving the way in doing so for the rest of the industry.
In “Doing Good While Doing Well,” presented by Epsilon and Conversant, co-founder and co-CEO of Upworthy, Peter Koechley and Conversant executive vice president, Bill Todd, will speak with panelists about why, despite concerns, there’s good that can result from the marketing tech communities, and how nonprofits are leveraging those systems to better drive business to make the world a better place.
“Is the F***ing Gender Debate Over? Lessons From 3%’s Elephant On Madison Avenue Survey” will reveal the findings of a survey completed by over 500 advertising women gauging their opinions on sexism, gender bias and whether gender equity exists in the industry. Panelists including 3% founder Kat Gordon will share those results and discuss the pressing need to find and inspire solutions.
Finally, The Impact Track also gives way for a unique, one-of-a-kind award show. Advertising Week has teamed up with D&AD to launch the D&AD Impact Awards, hosted by Baratunde Thurston, which celebrates companies who use creativity to stimulate positive change and contribute towards a better, fairer and more sustainable future. The Week will act as the inaugural event for presenting the various awards, including the prestigious “White Pencil” award, used to symbolize socially influential work.
Tim Lindsay, CEO of D&AD, will also speak with a host of D&AD Impact jurors during the “D&AD Impact and The Power of Creativity” session, where they’ll discuss creating a balance between purpose and profit.
To purchase tickets to the D&AD Impact Awards, head over to newyork.advertisingweek.com/dandad/tickets/.
More information about the the Impact Track and other calendar events can be found at newyork.advertisingweek.com/calendar.
