From Intern to Insights & Analytics Pro: How Jacqueline Cimino is Shaping the Future at Dentsu
Meet Jacqueline Cimino, the unstoppable force lighting up the Insights and Analytics Intern role at Dentsu! I had the absolute pleasure of mentoring Jacqueline during her time as an intern in the Oracle Advertising & Customer Experience Minority Internship Program. This unique initiative aimed to elevate minority students by immersing them in the dynamic world of AdTech and MarTech. Not only did Jacqueline grow professionally, but she also played a pivotal role in driving Oracle Advertising's success through impactful projects. Jacqueline didn't just participate; she excelled, leaving an incredible impression on our team with her stellar projects and final presentation.
With her boundless energy and deep-rooted passion for advertising, Jacqueline is on her way to the top! I was thrilled when she agreed to chat with me for THP. In this interview, she dives into what drew her to advertising, why insights and analytics are her focus, and what fuels her drive. Grab your favorite brew—coffee, tea, or your beverage of choice—and get ready to be inspired!
Tell me about your educational background and how it has influenced your career path? You have a B.A. in Business and African-American Studies and an M.A. in Advertising. How have these diverse academic experiences shaped your approach to your current role at Dentsu?
Jacquline: My academic experience allows me to tackle projects with a certain level of confidence. School forces people to perform under stress with deadlines, and knowing I can do that at school makes me more confident at work.
What initially drew you to a career in insights and analytics, and what excites you most about this field?
Jacquline: I was initially drawn to a career in insights and analytics because I've always been curious about how people think and what drives their decisions. Growing up, I was fascinated by how different elements could influence someone's choices, whether in consumer behavior or social trends. This field offered a way to dive deep into these questions using data. What excites me most is the ability to turn raw data into actionable insights that shape strategies and decisions. It feels like being a detective, piecing together clues to uncover meaningful stories and trends that can drive real change. Plus, it's incredibly rewarding to see how data can inform creative decisions and lead to successful campaigns in advertising.
Data analytics is a rapidly growing field. What aspects of insights and analytics motivate you, and how do you see this field evolving in the future?
Jacquline: The potential for innovation and impact motivates me most about insights and analytics. The idea that data can reveal patterns and insights that were previously hidden is exhilarating. It’s like having a superpower that can predict trends and behaviors, which is crucial for creating strategies that genuinely resonate with diverse audiences. Looking ahead, I see this field evolving with advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. These tools will provide even deeper insights and more precise predictions. Moreover, I believe there will be a greater emphasis on ethical data use and representation. As someone passionate about diversity and inclusion, I’m excited to contribute to ensuring that data practices are fair and inclusive, reflecting the richness of all voices in the analytics we perform.
Diversity in advertising is a critical topic today. How do you think your background in African-American studies contributes to your work at Dentsu, especially in promoting diversity and inclusion?
Jacquline: My background in African-American studies has been incredibly valuable in my role at Dentsu. It’s not just about understanding the historical and cultural context of African-American experiences; it’s about applying that knowledge to create more inclusive and authentic advertising. This background helps me approach projects with a nuanced perspective, ensuring that campaigns reflect and respect diverse voices. It also equips me with the tools to advocate for more inclusive practices and to challenge stereotypes that might be present in advertising. At Dentsu, I use this perspective to contribute to strategies that don’t just market to diverse audiences but genuinely engage with them, fostering meaningful connections and showcasing a broad spectrum of experiences and identities.
With your unique academic perspective, how do you integrate the principles of diversity and inclusion into your day-to-day tasks and projects?
Jacquline: In my day-to-day work, I integrate the principles of diversity and inclusion by starting with a mindset of curiosity and respect for different perspectives. For every project, I ensure that our creative and strategic approaches are grounded in genuine understanding and representation of the target audience. I actively seek out diverse voices and experiences during brainstorming sessions and research phases, and I make it a point to question and challenge any potential biases that might surface. Additionally, I collaborate closely with teams to ensure that our campaigns reflect inclusivity not just in terms of the content but also in the way we approach our audience. This means being mindful of language, imagery, and the overall message we’re sending out. By integrating these principles into every step of the process, I aim to contribute to work that is not only effective but also respectful and inclusive.
What advice would you give young professionals, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, looking to enter the advertising industry?
Jacquline: I would advise embracing your unique perspective and using it as your strength. The advertising industry is evolving, and there's a growing recognition of the value that diverse voices bring to the table. Don’t be afraid to showcase your background and the fresh insights it offers. Network actively and seek out mentors who understand and support your journey. Also, be proactive about learning—whether taking on internships, attending industry events, or participating in relevant online courses. Lastly, stay resilient and be prepared for challenges, but remember that your unique perspective is an asset and can drive meaningful change in the industry.
Based on your experience, what steps can they take to prepare themselves for a successful career in advertising and analytics?
Jacquline:
Get Hands-On Experience: Look for opportunities to work on real-world projects, whether through internships, freelance work, or even personal projects. This experience will help you build a portfolio and demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
Cultivate Soft Skills: Communication and storytelling are essential in advertising. Being able to translate complex data into compelling narratives and insights is key. Work on your ability to present data clearly and persuasively.
Stay Curious and Informed: The industry constantly changes, so keep up with the latest trends and technologies. Don’t let yourself get stuck in comfortability. Subscribe to industry publications, join professional organizations, and participate in relevant workshops or webinars.
What or who inspires you?
Jacquline: My mom inspires me every day because she turns every challenge into a stepping stone, proving that single-handedly juggling life's demands is another way to show her superpower. Watching my mom navigate single motherhood with grace and determination reminds me that strength isn’t just about handling obstacles but thriving despite them. Additionally, my mom's ability to balance a million responsibilities while always finding time to support and uplift me shows me that resilience and love are truly limitless.
Lastly, is there a favorite quote that keeps you motivated?
Jacquline: "Without ash to rise from, the Phoenix would just be a bird getting up." This quote highlights how overcoming challenges makes the rise so powerful and transformative, and I will never give up.