Career Changers Corporate Career Change

From Career Challenges To White House Honors

"I was shocked when I got the invitation. I thought it was a joke when I saw the White House as the return address on an envelope. I didn't think it was legitimate. But three weeks later, there I was, at the White House getting a photo with the first lady. Three months later, I get another letter, this time with the United Nations as the return address on it, saying that one of my other ads, had won a big award.

How Getting Fired 4 Times Led Me To The White House

How do you become the only hard man to be honored at both the White House and the UN? It starts by getting fired four times.

John’s Follis story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the ability to turn adversity into success.

The Early Years – A Rocky Start

John’s professional journey started with a series of setbacks. In his first job, he was thrust into a role he was not trained for and had no passion for. Despite this challenging start, John’s determination to make his mark as a creative professional never wavered. He attributes his resilience to the guidance of a mentor who recognized his talent and urged him to pursue a more creative curriculum at a different college.

Video interview with John Follis discussing How to turn adversity into success

The First Career Change (Redirection) – Finding Opportunities Amidst Failure

After facing multiple firings in corporate environments, John realized that the office politics and competitive nature of these workplaces were hindering his success. Rather than giving up, he decided to change the direction of his career by seeking out freelance and project work. This change allowed him to showcase his skills and connect with agencies that appreciated his creative talents, leading to a turning point in his career.

The Power of Finding the Right Help

Throughout his career, John emphasizes the importance of finding the right people who can support and recognize your talents. He shares his personal experiences of meeting someone who believed in his abilities and connected him to game-changing projects. Additionally, John highlights the significance of collaboration between creative professionals and business development experts, showcasing the positive outcomes that arise from such partnerships.

Grit – Overcoming Obstacles with Persistence and Determination

At times, success comes down to sheer determination and perseverance. John’s story is a testament to this fact. Despite facing multiple rejections, especially during his job search, John never lost sight of his goals. He vividly recalls making over a hundred phone calls in one day, receiving numerous rejections, but ultimately securing two opportunities that changed the course of his career. His unwavering dedication serves as an inspiration to anyone facing challenges in their professional life.

Making a Positive Impact Through Creative Work

One of the highlights of John’s career was the recognition he received for his public service work. His impactful campaigns on child abuse prevention caught the attention of the White House and the United Nations. John’s dedication to applying his skills towards causes he believed in, showcases the immense impact creative professionals can have on promoting positive change in the world.

Find your inspiration

John Follis‘ journey from being fired four times to becoming an honored figure at the White House and the United Nations is nothing short of remarkable. His story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the ability to transform failure into success. By embracing change, seeking the right support, and staying persistent, John exemplifies the qualities needed to build a successful career. It is clear that despite the challenges we face, with the right mindset and a willingness to adapt, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

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