“Convenience has been a long-time insight,” Joan said.
Orchid regrouped. “True. The target I’m most interested in, though, are the ones who want to set their own standards of beauty. I love this, because it fits with the zeitgeist of plus-size models, disability, inclusion and diversity.”
Joan put her phone down and leaned closer.
“And I have the best idea for taking all of this to action.”
“I’m all ears.”
“Lauder China wants to learn from us. With these new insights, I could do a great job recommending how they’d want to launch in Asia.”
Joan tapped the table. In the silence, Orchid’s scalp prickled with hope. I need this.
“And the China assignment would be the perfect opportunity for me to immerse in how Asia is thinking about male beauty,” she added.
“Oh. Well.” Joan’s flat tone matched her unmoving forehead. Her speech was measured. “This assignment is tricky. The Chinese market isn’t the same as ours. Different channels, different influencers, different platforms. You’d need strong strategic and creative expertise. You’d have to be ready to navigate politics at a whole new level. Last time I was there, they spoke Chinese right in front of me whenever they had something to say that wasn’t flattering.”
“I agree with you. The assignment is three months away. I’m sure I could learn about the Chinese channels, platforms, and influencers. I could even sign up for Chinese classes and get my language skills up to par. You’ve always appreciated my team-building skills, and work ethic. I’d do a great job.” She couldn’t prevent the memory of Princeton bursting into Mandarin when Joan had announced the opening.
“Honestly, the China leadership team will be looking for strategic advertising experience as a sign of seasoned talent.”
Orchid racked her mind. She hadn’t worked in advertising but she was capable. Her competitive spirit sparked. “Advertising experience? Can I work on a Lauder campaign?”
Joan pursed her lips. The unlined “o” shined smooth like a plastic flotation ring. “I can’t think of any brands at that stage right now, can you?”
Orchid persisted. “Okay, how about if I find a volunteer opportunity? Like for a non-profit?”
Her boss leaned back. “They’re not easy to find, but you’re welcome to look. There’s time before I need to let the China team know who I’m recommending. Probably until July.”
July gave her a few months. Still, Orchid would need to act fast. An idea struck her.
“How about this? Let’s ask ad agencies to come talk about their non-profit work. For team training.”
Joan’s forehead raised a few millimeters. “I like the idea. You know what, I have agency contacts. I just had a boutique firm call me. They’d be perfect.”
“I’d be happy to help.” Orchid meant it. Work gave her life purpose. Filled her with energy. She wanted this assignment.
Joan stood. Their time was up. “Thanks. Time for my next call. Good luck building your creative chops.”
The woman blew out of the room, and Orchid exhaled. She’d persevered and was clear on her mission. And it was true: more than anything, she needed to build creative chops. Or at least convince her boss that she had the right experience. She hoped one of the agencies could provide that opportunity.
CHAPTER4
COMBAT WOUNDS
Orchid
Her plan was in motion. Since their meeting two weeks ago, her boss had scheduled three external agency sessions. After one of them, she’d sidled over to her account executive friend. “Hey there, great job,” Orchid had said.
Her friend smiled wide. “You, too. I’ve heard you’re working on a top-secret launch.”
“Not so top secret, it seems!”
They both had laughed.
Orchid had a request, and she framed it carefully. “I’d love your help. Joan wants me to gain advertising experience. I’d like a chance to wow her with work on an ad campaign.”
“Oh, cool. You’ve got great brands here. There must be opportunities.”
