“Because each member is competing in different markets nationwide, the IAN meetings are candid and valuable,” says John Risdall, chairman of RAA. “Agencies are able to apply everything to their own situations. It’s a remarkable opportunity.”

The speakers included: Robyn Waters, former vice president of trend, design and product development at Target and now owner of the consulting firm RW Trend. Pat Fallon and Fred Senn, co-authors of “Juicing the Orange” and founding partners of Fallon Worldwide, also spoke about the compelling approach to building creativity into campaigns.

Between speakers, roundtable discussions allowed each member to share a “burning issue or topic” within their agency. Other members then offered advice on how to improve or change the situation.

“The Minneapolis meeting hosted great speakers, unique insights and industry trend discussions,” says Steve Karakas, president of IAN. “Now we can apply the ideas to our businesses.”

IAN holds various meetings at different locations throughout the United States. With agency tours at RAA and Fallon Worldwide, a line up of quality speakers, interactive round table discussions and tours at Twin Cities attractions, the fall meeting at RAA proved to be a memorable IAN event.

“The work Risdall did on behalf of IAN and the meeting was fabulous,” says Walter Ohlmann, President of Penny/Ohlmann/Neiman, Inc. “The Risdall culture oozes fun and creativity, and that was evident at every turn of the event.”

One of the world’s foremost experts on intellectual property and advertising law, Steve Bergerson of the Fredrickson & Byron law firm spoke on ad law. Another speaker, Carol Pine, noted author, professor, writer and former top 10 PR firm owner presented on agency corporate culture. Also joining in on the events was Jack Tesmer and Joe Romeo. Both St. Thomas University Professors and members of the Jack Tesmer Institute spoke on strategic marketing for agencies and “Blue Ocean Strategy.”

 About Intermarket Agency Network
The Intermarket Agency Network (IAN) is a nationwide organization that allows independent advertising agencies to freely share experiences, ideas and resources. By limiting membership to the top leaders in each major market, IAN members do not compete with one another, but rather share business suggestions or ask for advice from fellow members.

Risdall Advertising is a proud member of the Intermarket Agency Network. IAN is a global alliance of 70 worldwide and 20 U.S. ad agencies. Known as a marketing powerhouse; these agencies hold on to the highest levels of professionalism, sound business practices, creativity and long-range planning.

About Risdall Advertising Agency
Established in 1972, Risdall Advertising Agency has annual capitalized billings of $135 million and over 60 employees. Headquartered in New Brighton, Minn., Risdall Advertising is heralded as one of the oldest and most successful agencies in the Twin Cities market and is recognized nationally for its leading-edge interactive marketing capabilities. The full-service agency embraces an integrated approach offering marketing, advertising, public relations, promotion and collateral development, traditional and interactive media, research and fundraising capabilities.