CREATIVE Q&A: JWT Shanghai's Elvis Chau

How did you get into advertising?

I interned at JWT Singapore for 3 months before they offered me a part time job.

What was your first ever ad?

It was for Schick shaver. I was trying to make the product look like something else. At that time these types of ideas were hip.

What was your first ever job?

My first paying job was as a waiter in an Indonesian restaurant. First advertising job was a junior computer visualiser.

What was your worst job ever?

Can’t remember.

What does it take to impress you?

Show me that you care; whether for work or for people.

Where do you go to be inspired?

The back staircase of the office with my cigarette.

If you can spend one day with a celebrity or historical figure, who would it be? Why?

Bruce Lee. He is a legend and he looks like my favorite uncle.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Going out partying when I do not have to work over-time, as I am already not spending much time with my family.

If you have to come back as an animal, what would you be? Why?

A little brown bear, because my son loves his little bear bear more than me.

What is the last book you read?

1Q84 by Japanese author Haruki Murakami

Which ad do you wish you had made?
Many of them:  “Tap Project “, “Best Job In The World”, “Times Of India”, Sony Bravia “Balls”. Just to name a few.

Worst haircut you’ve ever had?

I used to have long hair when I was in school and I thought I was cool… until I look back at those photos now.

Describe your typical day.

Just like everyone else’s.

Can you suggest a question for our next Q&A candidate?

What was the most extreme thing you did when you tried to sell an idea to the client?

What was the worst thing said against you as an agency person? (Question provided by Publicis JimenezBasic Alex R. Castro)

“ I can come out with better ideas than these”