The Super Bowl and the Construction Industry
by Karen M. Scally
February 8, 2012
While watching the Super Bowl this past Sunday, I have to admit, I wasn’t really paying that much attention to the game—or even to the ads. But one particular ad did stick out to me.
The ad I’m referring to is called “Halftime in America,” and it’s a Chrysler ad featuring legendary actor Clint Eastwood. This ad resonated with me for a couple different reasons, perhaps the primary reason being that I’m from Detroit. Though the recession wielded its heavy hand throughout the country, it’s no secret that Detroit and its auto industry were hit particularly hard. Putting politics aside for a second and whether or not you think the automakers should’ve received any taxpayer help to keep their doors open, this ad—as well as Chrysler’s Super Bowl campaign from last year—struck an emotional chord with me. Detroit is my home. I grew up practically in the shadow of Chrysler’s headquarters. All my friends’ fathers either worked for an automaker or an auto supplier. As a kid, we didn’t just play cops and robbers—we played GM vs. Ford. Watching Detroit fall from its powerhouse days of my youth has been incredibly tough.
That being said, I can relate to Eastwood’s monologue—though Detroit’s been hit, I haven’t stopped believing we can get back up. We may be down, but we’re not out. We’re simply taking some time to regroup, but after we do, we’re going to come back roaring.
This ad also resonated with me because of the industry I serve. Similar to the pain felt in the auto industry, the recession has also dealt a huge blow to those in construction. It may be hard to remember after the sting of the past few years, but it was not that long ago when times were booming for construction.
So let me ask you: what are you doing to prepare for a comeback? How are you shaping your team to thrive in the future? What lessons have you learned from your time out on the field? What are you doing now to change your outcome in the future?
When halftime’s over, will you be ready to compete?
Karen M. Scally
scallyk@bnpmedia.com
Karen M. Scally is the editor of Site Prep.
Comments (2)Post a Comment
Did you enjoy this article? Click here to subscribe to the magazine.
Title: clints Chrysler ad
By: Pat
Posted: February 8, 2012 3:47 PM
Fantastic, Perfect guy to deliver the perfect message!
25 yrs in the Construction Industry. I am small WBE and barely hanging in there, but I believe we are American survivors so we join you in half time and will continue to seek the comeback!
Title: Chrysler ad
By: Wayne
Posted: February 8, 2012 4:51 PM
Eastwood is ok. I have a big problem with the baleout of GM & Chrysler.