Mason Culture - Mason Interactive

This summer, I have been working as a Digital Marketing intern for Mason and it has been an amazing experience. Before this internship, I never thought I would be able to experience the professional world as a high school student. Working at Mason has been a journey filled with valuable lessons that have shaped my approach towards working creatively.

Projects

During my time at Mason, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in tasks I’ve never done before, such as analyzing data, creating TikTok videos, and writing blogs. Some of the most fun and interesting projects were doing creative gap analyses for brands like Marimekko and filming videos using our soundproof booth. I found it fascinating to analyze companies that sell similar products and uncover what makes some more successful than others. I also enjoyed pulling in creatives from companies that I love when they were direct competitors of our clients. Making TikToks for Mason was a lot of fun as well. The whole process of making them was very fulfilling because it was a creative way to get work done and by the end, you have a fun memorable experience to share with the world.

Takeaways

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to not overthink. Creativity thrives when you allow thoughts to flow freely, without letting that over-critical voice in your head hold you back. Instead of perfecting an idea before acting on it, I’ve discovered the power of simply throwing ideas at the wall to see what sticks. Some ideas work, others don’t—but that’s just part of the creative process. Embracing the imperfections of creativity has taught me that each attempt, whether successful or not, offers insights that fuel future successes.

Another key takeaway has been the ability to identify creative gaps. I’ve started to see a company’s creative work through a different lens. I’ve learned to notice the small details that can make or break an ad, gaining a deeper understanding of how businesses can enhance their creative strategies. Observing the nuances that make certain campaigns succeed while others fall short has sharpened my creative instincts and made me more effective in my role.

Communication has also played a crucial role. Whether it’s chatting about our weekends or keeping each other updated on weekly tasks, I’ve learned that clear, open communication is key. It promotes collaboration, helps solve problems faster, and ensures that everyone is aligned. Sharing ideas, asking questions, and receiving feedback have all been essential to my productivity and growth at Mason.

Beyond the professional growth, what truly stands out about Mason is the strong sense of community. From the moment I joined, I was welcomed and supported. Despite being younger and newer than all of my colleagues, I’ve always felt included and valued as a part of the team. Whether it’s during collaborative brainstorming or casual conversations, the respect and kindness shown by everyone makes Mason feel like a family rather than just a workplace.

My journey at Mason has been one of learning, creativity, and a strong sense of community. Each experience has made me more confident and capable, ready to tackle new challenges with a fresh perspective. The willingness of others to offer guidance, share knowledge, and encourage new ideas has worked wonders for my personal and professional growth. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and will carry these lessons with me as I continue to explore the professional world.

Internships give students valuable on-the-job experience. If you’re interested in exploring internship opportunities at Mason Interactive, contact us today.

I spent about a month and a half as a summer intern for Mason Interactive. Mason Interactive is a digital marketing company that uses holistic strategies to help brands grow. With amazing strategists, innovators, creatives, data wizards, digital natives, growth marketers, and analysts, it was an experience to see everyone working together to help bring satisfaction to our clients.

First Day

The moment I stepped into the DUMBO, Brooklyn office, I felt at home. The furniture and decorations gave the office a biophilia theme. The window and private patio had amazing views of the Manhattan skyline, as well as the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridge. Medina Shareef, the director of HR, introduced me to the office as I settled in. I proceeded with adjusting to my workspace and working on my Google Ads Search Certification.

Team Projects

I worked alongside Ashley Bruzas, the director of Business Development and leader of Team Killer. She taught me about the team’s goals and outlined how I would collaborate on projects over the summer. I was given an overview of how the brand strategy process works for an agency, which includes researching direct-to-consumer brands, creating competitive analyses, and providing them with opportunities to improve. Additionally, Ashley gave me a Photoshop tutorial which was fun to watch because you are able to customize logos or create anything that your mind wants to.

I attended a Meta Webinar which gave me insight into how companies can prepare for the upcoming holiday shopping season through key strategies which includes connection, interactivity, and community. In addition, I was also given the task of working on a project called the Q4 Outreach. Working on this project was my favorite because I got to research targeted brands and create analyses to uncover what they are doing well, and how Mason Interactive could help them improve. This project allowed me to see how big companies differ from smaller companies in terms of their SEO, digital advertising, and creative approach. Overall, the summer internship was an exciting and accomplishing learning experience.

Internships give students valuable on-the-job experience. If you’re interested in exploring internship opportunities at Mason Interactive, contact us today.

We’re thrilled to announce that Kelly Stancil has joined a brand new team at Mason Interactive as our first Data Engineer.

With 7 years of experience in data visualization and report management, Kelly joins our agency with a goal to focus in on insights so that clients can better understand customer behavior in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Kelly is from Pinehurst, NC. He spends his free time being a night owl and enjoying the stellar cast & writing of Showtime’s Billions.

“As our agency grows, we know that specialization is becoming more important than ever. We’re thrilled to have Kelly in our Charlotte office as a full-time Data Engineer. This will greatly bolster the service we provide to our media clients.”
Brook Shepard, Founder & CEO of Mason Interactive

Get to Know Kelly

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Mind compulsion like a vampire, I’d be the world’s best performance coach, fitness trainer, hostage negotiator, possibilities are endless.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what one item would you bring and why?

If it’s a luxury deserted island it’ll be a laptop to work remote because I’m never coming back to the states. However if it’s a non-amenity laced deserted island I’m bringing Jeff Bezos so we won’t be stranded for too long.

What’s your favorite throwback jam/go-to karaoke song?

Favorite Throwback: Usher and Alicia Keys “My Boo”.

Cheers Kelly, and welcome to the Mason family!

We are excited to announce that David Grigg has joined Team Hawk at Mason Interactive as a Performance Marketing Manager. With five years of digital marketing experience, David joins our team with a focus on goal strategy and relationships with our clients. He believes that understanding a client’s audience and their online presence is a key factor in driving business growth in today’s age. He is excited to join Mason Interactive where he can build upon an advertising passion, make new friends and experiences, and impact both our team and those we partner with to strive for the same vision. David is from Locust, NC right outside of Charlotte and spends his other hours golfing, staying in shape, going to sports games and breweries, writing, and volunteering. He is on the board of an adoption organization and is always open to chat and/or be a resource about the topic. We are looking forward to all the great things ahead with David on the team!

Inc. magazine today revealed that Mason Interactive is No. 114 on its second annual Inc. 5000 Regionals: New York City Metro list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing New York City area-based private companies. Born of the annual Inc. 5000 franchise, this regional list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the NYC area economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses.

“We are honored to be on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in the New York City Metro Region”, says Mason Interactive Founder and CEO Brook Llewellyn Shepard. “The digital ecosystem is moving super-fast, and I’m proud to be at the vanguard. While we experience steady growth year over year, we’ve stayed true to our core values, offering white-glove level of service, and growing a team that genuinely cares about its client partners.”

We are thankful to our team, our clients, and our partners for their support and making the growth possible. We’ll stay committed to delivering digital marketing solutions that are backed by data, regularly monitored and optimized, and tailored to client’s specific needs.

The companies on the 5000 Regionals: N.Y. Metro list show stunning rates of growth across all industries in the New York City area. Between 2017 and 2019, these 250 private companies had an average growth rate of 214 percent and, in 2019 alone, they employed more than 48,000 people and added nearly $9 billion to the NYC Metro area economy. Companies based in Stamford, Connecticut, New York City, and central New Jersey brought in the highest revenue overall.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000 Regionals: NYC Metro area, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, metro area, and other criteria, can be found here.

“This list proves the power of companies in the New York City area no matter the industry,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. “The impressive revenues and growth rates prove the insight and diligence of CEOs and that these businesses are here to stay.”

In 2020, Mason Interactive was recognized on Inc. 5000 list of America’s most successful companies. Contact us today to work with our team on your digital marketing strategy.

Mason Interactive inspires our digital marketing specialists’ team to create digital marketing solutions that are strategic and results-driven. Currently, our team works remotely, so inspiration comes from daily Zoom and Slack camaraderie.

As we balance our remote culture and expanding client needs, Mason Interactive continues to grow. This month, we want to introduce you to our new Account Strategist, Dasia Hood. Dasia shares how working at Mason Interactive inspires her in work and life.

Dasia, where do you live, and how long have you been at Mason?

I live in Dayton, OH. But, in January 2021, I am moving closer to Charlotte, NC, where Mason is opening its second office. I started as an Account Strategist in November, so it’s only been a couple of weeks. As an Account Strategist, I help brands understand how Mason Interactive uses performance marketing to get them results like increased revenue, better engagement, and brand awareness.

What is your favorite thing about Mason?

I love collaborating with strong-minded, intelligent people. Every person at Mason Interactive has a kick-ass personality! We discuss solutions and strategies respectfully and passionately. It’s an excellent dynamic for creative and technical characters. I enjoy everyone’s unique sense of humor they use to help each other through busy or challenging days.

Do you have any hobbies, pets, etc.?

I would love to get a cat! But, no pets at the moment. I start my morning off by running 1-3 miles. I like to jog on my treadmill or outside, depending on the weather. I am a regular reader, and I host a book club, of which I am the only member. I enjoy books on personal development, science fiction, and literary classics. My favorite book is 1984 by George Orwell, and I have read it at least fifty times!

What does a typical workday look like for you?

First, I need coffee! Next, we have our morning all-hands team Zoom. Then, I typically have a client or team meetings to shadow. Since I am in training, I learn the tech stack and concepts for my new role in between appointments. Soon, I’ll be managing leads, new clients, and communicating with our existing clients. Our team connects around 5:15 to recap and give a friendly farewell.

What are your must-have WFH essentials?

I am ambidextrous. I write with my left hand, but I use my right hand for everything else. So, I need ample desk space. I like to work at my kitchen table so I can spread out. Being close to the kitchen keeps me close to coffee, snacks, and water. Hydration is the key to success, am I right?

Do you have a specific WFH “vibe”?

Totally! I like lots of natural lighting and a little background noise. I typically put on some chill R&B or french pop. If it’s warm outside, I open the windows for a nice breeze. I drink half decaf with almond milk until noon; then it’s water with lemon or cucumber for the rest of the day.

What do you think the biggest change has been for you since quarantine?

Working in the hospitality industry during the start of COVID led to some profound life changes for me. I switched to homeschooling my daughter and seeking out the perfect place to pursue a career in a field that has been a hobby and passion since I got my first computer. Getting hired and working at Mason has been a tremendous and much-needed change in my life. I also have a newfound appreciation for quality hand cream from all the handwashing lately. Ya’ll, my hands be dry.

Nice to meet you, Dasia!