Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Elizabeth Montijo. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Elizabeth, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry?
The local media industry isn’t just a business; it’s a mission to serve the community. Its superpower is making a difference locally by spotlighting local issues, collaborating with neighborhood businesses to address problems, and, most importantly, championing the community.
As a marketing pro in this field, my role is crucial. I bring innovation into the mix to boost business, inspire teams to embrace new media strategies, and, most importantly, build trust in WDAF TV’s brand.
You must be bold, brave, empathetic, and tuned into what matters to thrive. Each day offers a fresh adventure, keeping the work in this industry exciting and meaningful. It’s a position that can’t be underestimated.
Elizabeth, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Creativity has always been ingrained in me. As a kid, I dabbled in various art forms – drawing, acting, music, you name it. But it was during my freshman year at Temple University that I stumbled upon a game-changing Ogilvy and Mather Ad campaign for Puerto Rico. This campaign transformed the island’s fortunes and ignited a spark in me.
I was fascinated by using creativity to shape communities and make a real impact. So, I decided to dive into the world of creative services for local TV. Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked in cities like Philadelphia, Atlanta, D.C., Chicago, and now Kansas City, wearing various hats within the industry. Yet, my unwavering passion remains the same – crafting inspiring messages that drive positive change and keep people informed about what is happening in our communities.
My motivation has always been straightforward: giving back and making a positive difference. I’ve developed campaigns that raised millions to fight cancer, feed the underserved, and provide better education for kids. I’ve also helped expose scams, save money, and hold government officials accountable. But let me tell you, the local news business is not easy. It’s a non-stop rollercoaster – no holidays, no weekends off because news never takes a break. Throw in the polarized state of media, well, let’s say I have never been known to take the easy route.
Not all media outlets are created equal, and disinformation is a real threat to our democracy. Knowing how you choose your news matters. Good local journalism means you can trust the info. Strong local journalism also brings diverse viewpoints together, focusing on accuracy and fixing mistakes.
The news industry is changing fast, offering more ways to get your daily dose of info than ever. It’s an industry at a crossroads, where it’s adapt or die. But I wouldn’t be in this game if I didn’t believe it was worth it.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing team morale in a rapidly evolving industry can be complex, but here’s a straightforward strategy: Stay upbeat while staying grounded. View challenges as a chance to stir up creativity. Don’t shy away from the unfamiliar; let it ignite your imagination. Keep in mind that change is the fertile soil where creativity blooms, innovation sprouts, and trends flourish. So, keep the team pumped up for this exciting creative adventure! Your approach to a creative team cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach. You’re managing unique individuals within a collective.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
I love using analogies to make things clear, so here’s one: Creative departments are like the kitchen junk drawer. They’re incredibly useful, often overlooked, and a bit chaotic. But when you’re stuck or need a place for those odd items, it’s the first spot you turn to.
The smartest companies are the ones that value marketing and advertising the most. They know that involving these creative minds from the start greatly improves your chances of success.
In times of industry change, I believe cutting marketing or its budgets is the wrong move. It’s the moment to embrace marketing, improve internal communication, and come up with creative solutions for success.
Image Credits
WDAF, Nick Gould Photography