What separates advertising’s rock stars from its chair warmers? And what does it take to get to the next level? Over the next few weeks we’ll be asking marketers who’ve made their mark their thoughts on getting ahead.

Today, Grip Partner, Creative Jon Finkelstein weighs in:

1) True or false: results trump all reasonable shortcomings?
Hummm. I’d say Trulse. Because it sort of depends on how you come at it. Results are king, don’t get me wrong. We’re in the demand-generation business. And when we sell our clients’ wares, we all win. BUT results at all costs can also be creatively crushing. Like, you can write a great offer on a paper bag and if it’s marketed to the right person at the right time with the right offer, then BINGO. It will work. But is it “wow”? Would you show it to friends? Do you feel fulfilled? Maybe none of that matters. I changed my answer. Results wins.

2) Are there any common qualities you’ve seen in people who go far in this industry?
Yes. Drive. Determination. Curiosity. Passion. You really need to love this business. If you’re not engaged, you won’t get too far. Those who really succeed make themselves invaluable to their agency.

3) How do you feel about the idea that people should dress a level above their current pay grade?
Only if they’re looking to date someone who makes more. Of course, maybe it matters if you’re on the account side. But take a look at some of the most successful creatives. Jeans. T-shirts. Turtlenecks.

4) What’s the downside of ambition?
Some people can be royal pains in the ass. It’s great to be ambitious as long as you do it with respect. Being on a CD’s heels all the time can have the inverse effect. Also, make sure your ambition is wanted. Don’t step on toes.

5) From a career perspective, how important are writer-art director partnerships?
I like the idea of having many people in a department that work well together. I think more and more it’s becoming less important. BUT, it’s sure great to have someone you work well with every day.

6) How important are awards to getting ahead?
Very. They get you noticed. They get your name in magazines. Which means CDs and headhunters can find you. Awards also give you credibility. And that’s a good thing.

7) If advertising is a young person’s game, any tips for managing a successful career into your golden years?
Own the agency. Colour your hair. Get cosmetic surgery. Or keep fresh. Go to conferences. Don’t eschew technology. And see question 2. It still applies.

8) Scenario: you have a job, but aren’t moving forward. You’re out of ideas. What do you do?
Watch TED. Go to TED. Take a vacation. Watch YouTube. Read a book. If all fails, maybe you should be happy with what you have.

9) How much effort should someone put toward intangible cultural contributions to an agency?
I think this is a great question. I think some people are great at this. It helps keep staff happy. It’s great for the agency. And, as I said above, it makes you invaluable. That said, don’t spend more time on this than what you’re paid to do.

10) What’s the secret to looking like a star in a brainstorming session?
Participate. So often junior staff ask to be included in brainstorm sessions. Then they don’t participate. If you take up space in a boardroom, speak up. Remember, no idea is too stupid. Only silence is.

11) True or false: the more integrated you are, the better positioned you are for success?
True. And remember, integration isn’t necessarily structural. It’s a state of mind. Think multidisciplinary. Act multidisciplinary. It’s way more fun anyway.

For more thoughts on this topic, check out our four-part How to get a job in advertising series.