Digital advertising firm atLarge, Inc. won a Stevie Award for their IMG Academies Interactive Campaign in the Best Software Programming & Design category of The 2009 American Business Awards.
 What book are you currently reading?
Out of Our Minds: Learning to Be Creative
by Sir Ken Robinson. I recently heard Sir Ken speak about how today’s education system is focused on systemized, standardized learning instead of recognizing individuality and fostering our natural creativity. His book weaves in statistics about the cost we pay for strained creativity and the strategies for recovering it.
What was the last movie you saw, and would you recommend it?
I took myself to Disney’s Up when it opened recently. The animation was amazing and the story pulls at you no matter what age you are. Go see it!
What is your favorite sport or hobby?
I’ve been practicing kickboxing for the last 6 years. I always feel accomplished after a go-round.
Who is your favorite historical figure?
Rosa Parks. She understood her place in history by becoming the catalyst for the civil rights movement. Through a peaceful but powerful act she ignited a nation and set into motion events that would change the world. Her life is a great example of servant leadership.
Who is your favorite living person?
My mother raised four children as a single parent while putting herself through college, working full-time, supporting her community, and at the same time being an endless source of encouragement for her friends and family. She’s the most ethical, dedicated, and generous person I know.
If you could choose another profession, what would it be?
I sent my first resume and cover letter to Saturday Night Live when I was a junior in high school. I had written a short play and decided I belonged in entertainment—and what better spot than on the SNL writing team? I’m still waiting to hear back … but I can do a dead ringer of Molly Shannon’s Superstar.
What do you think is the worst bad habit to have at work?
A career is like a marriage, so you have to pick the right one. A lot of times we take the wrong job because it’s safe. You can tell when people don’t care about their work, but when you do what you love, you have a career, not a job. It feeds your mind, not just your mouth. One of my favorite quotes is from Buddha: "Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give yourself to it."
What quality or qualities do you most value in your business associates?
Whether you are choosing team members, partners, or clients, the people who value creativity, integrity, and authenticity always come out on top. They are people with the imagination to explore unchartered possibilities, the resourcefulness to get things done, and the moral compass to do what’s right—even when it’s inconvenient.
Is there anything you'd like to improve about your own work practices?
I have a tendency to leap before I look. Often I find myself leaping in multiple directions and committing to impractical deadlines because I love what I do and I always want more of it. But sometimes less really is more.
As someone at the top of your profession, what keeps you inspired or makes you hit the ground running in the morning?
I start every day with my “morning pages.” As soon as I wake up I put whatever is in my thoughts on to paper. This takes about half an hour. It lets me clear my head and launches me into brainstorming how to tackle the day.
What do you consider has been your greatest achievement in business?
I was the second person to be employed by atLarge, Inc. Being part of the kind of company that people love to work at, that contributes to the community, and is a force for marketing technology and innovation on Florida’s Gulf Coast, has been tremendously rewarding for me both on a personal and professional level. This is the first job I’ve had since college where I feel like I’m doing what I was made for.
What advice or useful tip would you give to someone who is just starting out in business?
Be authentic with your words and in your actions.
About Amanda Eyer
Amanda Eyer is a strategy leader for atLarge, Inc. Eyer has been recognized as the 2009 Member of the Year by the Central West Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association for her work on their Strategic PR Seminars, which featured Wikipedia’s PR Manager, Carnival Cruise Lines’ Director of PR, and Build-a-Bear’s PR Director. In addition to coordinating several professional development events for marketers, Amanda has also spoken about interactive branding for numerous organizations including the American Advertising Association, Florida Communications Bar Association, and The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce's TechFast Breakfast.
Eyer holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of Florida and an MBA from the University of South Florida.
About atLarge, Inc.
atLarge, Inc., is a privately held Internet advertising agency focused on building client brands through compelling online experiences. Founded in Sarasota in 2004, the company specializes in Internet marketing including Web site development, analytics, search-engine optimization, and design usability. atLarge has created sales and brand awareness strategies for a range of influential companies including BBDO, Chevrolet, the Detroit Regional Chamber, Ford Motor Company, IMG Academies, J.D. Power and Associates, Ringling College of Art and Design, the Sarasota Convention & Visitors Bureau, and The State of Michigan. In addition to receiving a Stevie Award in the 2009 American Business Awards, atLarge, Inc. received the 2008 Award of Excellence from the Sarasota County Economic Development Corporation, two Davey Awards from The International Academy of the Visual Arts, an Honorable Mention from the Association of Film Commissioners, and sixteen ADDY Awards from the American Advertising Federation. |
Gary Rappeport is Chief Executive Officer of Donlen Corporation, based in
Northbrook, Illinois. Donlen provides companies with innovative vehicle fleet
management solutions ranging from acquisition through remarketing.
