Fast Forward is the right choice for our industry post-Covid
By Jo Bolger, course director, Fast Forward
Fast Forward is NABS’ innovative course that prepares rising talent in our industry for a brilliant career ahead. Delegates work in teams on a live brief from a charity client, collaborating over the course of seven weeks to come up with a creative solution to wow our panel of esteemed judges in a pitch night. Teams also benefit from insightful and inspirational talks along the way from our specially invited guests, giving motivation not just for the task in hand but for many years ahead.
This all culminates in an exciting session where teams present their ideas, which are then judged carefully before the winning team is announced.
NABS has been running this brilliant course for more than 20 years. What makes this year a little different and perhaps even more special is the timing – September, as we move into life post-Covid.
The timing of Fast Forward presents a unique opportunity for delegates. Working from home for the past year has brought positives, but also challenges. Many people in the first few years of their careers have found it hard to achieve visibility and to network successfully. Fast Forward provides a solution by bringing delegates together with their peers across the industry, as well as giving them a seat in front of some of adland’s most senior names.
There’s also the motivation factor. NABS’ research has found that motivation across the industry has been low during lockdown. Taking part in an exciting course such as Fast Forward provides a new goal to work for, with new people to collaborate with. This sense of fresh excitement can be hugely motivating and can help to reenergise somebody during their regular working day too.
NABS’ research has found that motivation across the industry has been low during lockdown. Taking part in an exciting course such as Fast Forward provides a new goal to work for and new people to collaborate with.
Jo Bolger, course director, Fast Forward
The format of this year’s course will equip delegates with the skills they’ll need to pitch as our industry adopts new ways of working. We’re holding Fast Forward virtually, with Covid safety in mind. This means collaborating and pitching virtually too, something that’s sure to stay as a working practice past Covid. Fast Forward teaches these essential virtual pitching skills that will be used for years to come.
It’s been a tough year for us all. Which means that now is the time to give back, both to staff and to NABS. Giving your talented junior staff the chance to participate in Fast Forward is a great reward for getting through the pandemic, as well as an essential learning opportunity. Meanwhile, all course fees from Fast Forward go back into NABS, helping you to support thousands of people across our industry in one of the most crucial times we’ve ever known.
To find out more about signing your teams up for Fast Forward, email me at j.bolger@nabs.org.uk
Fast Forward – NABS’ flagship training course for future leaders runs 6 September-18 October, once a week, out of working hours, at scheduled virtual and in-person sessions.
It’s perfect for account executives, account managers and planners with up to five years’ experience.