PPB September 2021

Continued from page 21 Kara Keister, MAS proud. Starting in the industry fresh out of college meant that I had nothing to compare our work to. I was recruited by an agency outside of our industry in 2018 and briefly left thinking I was moving on to greener pastures. I quickly realized after 90 days away that Grapevine Designs is my home, and the promotional products industry is where I can thrive. I love being able to bring strategic solutions to solve my clients’ problems and creating out-of-this-world branding programs that make them look like rock stars. Most optimistic about for the industry’s future: I’m very excited to see how we evolve as an industry post-pandemic. While there has been so much uncertainty the past year, I think it has forced us all to change the way we do business in some way or another. I’m optimistic that, as a community, we can learn from each other and grow exponentially as we embrace these changes and move forward. Biggest concern for the industry’s future: We are at a crossroads in terms of how we move forward as an industry post-pandemic. Do we revert to the old ways of doing business, or do we continue to push the limits and use this as an opportunity to really change the way our industry is perceived and how it operates? I hope everyone can come together and get on board to make those changes happen instead of continuing to operate in some of the outdated ways that we are growing away from as a society. We have to think and explore outside of our little industry bubble to see how businesses are operating in other industries. What’s working for them and how do we implement similar changes to the promotional products industry, so we are always evolving and staying on the forefront of our ever-changing world? We have to start thinking about some of these things in a different way and step outside of our comfort zones in order for change to happen so that our industry can continue to be successful over the next 50 years. Inspiration: My Grapevine team inspires me every day. We have so many different projects going on at any given time and the work that we all produce is truly incredible. When you create a collaborative environment like we have here, showing up to work is fun and challenges you in an exciting way. To accomplish in the next 24 months: I am so excited about this next decade in my life. Professionally our business is growing and it’s extremely rewarding to see all that hard work pay off. Ideally, I would like for my personal block of business to double in revenue during this time. In my personal life, I hope to start a family and build our dream home. Ideas to recruit and retain more young talent: Continue to educate and empower young professionals within our industry through programs like SPARK and regional boards. Providing leadership opportunities within our industry creates a sense of community, self- worth and extreme pride that brings a powerful energy that’s needed to move our industry forward. Best advice for them: There is room in this industry for you to grow and be successful. It takes time and a lot of effort, but it’s worth it. You have an entire group of people here who want to see you accomplish your goals and are willing to help you along the way. Continued from page 23 AustinHayford-Moody to leave our vocabulary. It is time to be better. Biggest concern for the industry’s future: It is tough out there right now. Distributors are struggling to find their footing in the constantly changing terrain. Suppliers are dealing with everything from global supply chain drama and staffing shortages to basic logistical nightmares. I am on board with empathy, being kind and working together, but my concern is that we, as an industry, are relying too much on the excuse. Let’s start working together smarter and help each other with solutions that benefit the industry overall. Inspiration: So. Many. People. I do not even know where to start with my inspirational Wall of Fame. In the industry I have a list as long as my wingspan including PPAI staff, regional leaders, co-workers that I get to call friends and, of course, my partner in crime, Roger Burnett. But when it comes down to it, the people who create the “why” behind me getting up and putting in the work and trudging through a small-business startup are my family. My husband, my parents, my brother, my six-year-old niece—the whole darn, crazy Ward/Keister/Howard crew. They are the reason I never give up. To accomplish in the next 24 months: We have some tricks up our sleeve here at Social Good Promotions, but overall, I would like to see continued growth in revenue and the addition of team members. I would also like to continue my service to the industry after my RAC board term concludes. Oh, and I really want to add a gold PPAI Pyramid to my shelf. Ideas to recruit and retain more young talent: Get out there and just do it! Advocate for the industry, tell young professionals how much you love your job, learn the statistics behind what drives our industry and share the knowledge. There are high school and college programs all over the country that want professionals to come in and speak to their students about opportunities. Participate in a mentoring or internship program in your region. Have your nephew print t-shirts or run your social media. The list is endless, but the answer is that we must start somewhere, so get out there and advocate. Best advice for them: There is no substitution for hard work. Rising Stars | FEATURE | SEPTEMBER 2021 | 29