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10 Questions with ... Carly Laskey
August 25, 2009
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NAME:Carly LaskeyPOSITION:Director of MarketingSTATION:WDCG, WRVA, WKSL, WRDUMARKET:Raleigh, NCOWNER:Clear Channel
Please outline your radio career so far:
01-02: St Pete Times Forum/Tampa Bay Lightning, from Intern to Marketing Assistant
02-04: WSSR/WMTX/WBPT, Promotions Coordinator
04-present: WDCG, WRVA, WKSL, WRDU, from Promotions Director to Director of Marketing1) From Slaw Slams to Little Black Dress events, you consistently roll out some very different (in a GOOD way) promotions. Tell us about some of your biggest successes. What made them great?
All of the promotions you mention are so successful mostly because they are FUN and compelling, easy to execute and revenue generators. Another promotion we've done well at G105 is our Listener Lounges. It's basically just a name and way for us to brand intimate shows through various artists who come in to play for our listeners throughout the year. But again, it's FUN and memorable and a way for us to enhance our brand while providing valuable content and prizes that matter to our listeners.
2) Where do you get the inspiration for your promotional ideas? Is there anything or anybody that you read, watch or brainstorm with?
I try to use everything and everyone in my life as inspiration. I get ideas from things I read on Facebook and Twitter, conversations with friends and family, people watching, etc. I love Oprah, Chelsea Lately and CNN. I read gossip, fashion and music magazines/blogs. And most definitely, there are key people here at work and within the industry that I bounce my ideas off and vice versa.
3) Cutbacks have taken their toll on many promotion and marketing departments, yet it seems like you're pretty much unfazed, still pulling off great events with a small army of assistants. Tell us about the G105 team effort.
I am privileged to work with some of the hardest working people in radio. Larry Jessup is the Promotions Coordinator and also my right hand and partner in everything. I couldn't do what I do without him. The Showgram is a team of four, and each of them brings unique qualities to the table. They are innovative, passionate, and super-competitive. Brody has a genuine enthusiasm for the radio station that you wish was contagious. He is the one person who raises his hand and volunteers every single time you ask for help. Geller is a creative genius. He can take any average promotion and make it sound brilliant in a production room. He just gets it. Then there is Randi West. She is the yin to my yang. Hands down, one of the smartest, most dedicated people I know. She is amazing at her job and an incredible leader of our team.
4) How would you describe your first radio gig?
I was young, naive and worked all the time! But it really was an extraordinary time where I learned valuable life experiences and made remarkable friendships.
5) Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?
Definitely! But being busy keeps me sane, so I wouldn't have it any other way.
6) Who would be a "dream guest" to have on your station?
Five minutes with Oprah would be amazing.
7) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
XL 106.7 -- Orlando FL.
8) Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
Snow skiing. If I ever lose my job, I'll move somewhere where I can hit the slopes and be a ski instructor for a year.
9) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Two truths: 1) Nothing is forever. 2) Good things happen to good people.
10) What advice you would give people new to the business?
Work hard, don't be afraid to ask questions, learn as much as you can, and always get it in writing!
Bonus Questions
What ringtone do you have on your cell?
Black Eyed Peas - Boom Boom Pow!
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