Precisely twenty-five minutes later, Ian was being ushered into Jack Tolan’s office by his secretary for his first big meeting of the day. He had assumed that it was a perfunctory chat about protocol and procedure expected at the initial fall schedule meeting that afternoon. With the press coverage he now assumed this meeting could be about anything.
Once the usual handshakes were exchanged, Ian was introduced to a third, unexpected party in the room.
“Ian I would like you to meet Lance Crockett, head of our promotions department.”
Ian shook his hand, “You were named after a cracker?” He smiled, wishing he had said something else.
The man’s coal gray eyes flashed, “Who taught you how to spell your last name?” The man retorted.
“Have a seat” Tolan motioned. Everyone took the cushy chair motioned to. “Ian, I understand you had a rather interesting weekend…”
“Sir, some friends took me out for my very first real night on the town. I ran into some old college buddies, knocked back a couple of drinks and ending up singing a song or two with the band. I had no idea, and I realize now rather naively, that things would steam roll the way they did.”
Jack nodded his head, “Of course son, I’m sure you are still realizing how small a town LA really is. Even though everyone is entitled to their private lives, there is very little private about any one’s life, especially here and especially in our positions.”
“Of course, sir. I will be happy to do any kind of damage control that you see fit.” Ian was ready to do whatever was necessary. He in no way wanted to damage the reputation of HRT. No matter what the cost to him.
“Well, I think little damage control has to be done.” Ian was surprised. “Now I will admit, it was a little unorthodox, but blown way out of proportion, probably compounded by my own announcement.”
“The two probably just fanned each other’s flame.” The publicity guy added.
“Precisely” Tolan agreed. “Actually, other than a few rumors that are totally unbelievable, there is nothing to control. The phones have been ringing off the hook since early Sunday morning, every one of them positive. You have generated more excitement for this network than people paid handsomely for quite a long time have managed to.” Tolan shot a look toward Crockett.
“That’s where I come in.” Crockett jumped back in.
“Lance and I had planned to have this meeting with you a little later, but now seems like the perfect time to act, while the iron is hot, so to speak”
“So to speak...” Crockett yes manned.
“I don’t understand.”
“May I?” Crockett asked.
“Certainly”
“Even before your little public display became so public, your charisma and charm have not gone unnoticed, something that our demographics say aren’t usually associated with this network. It has been discussed that perhaps now is the time to use you to help change that.”
“I’m still lost.”
“Ian,” Tolan deliberately chose his words, “We would like you to be the new face of HRT, a spokes person for a simplistic term.”
“You mean turn the letters while you get the contestants to spin the wheel?” Ian was wishing Wella were there. He was a lot confused, a little insulted and wasn’t sure he wanted to bother with protocol.
Tolan, laughed. “Not exactly. We would like you to be the front man for all press conferences, be there for most important interviews. Sort of be the embodiment of the network, let the public think of you when they think of HRT.”
“I understand, but I’m not exactly sure how that will solve the problems that we have.”
Crockett explained, “Your background makes you a perfect fit to handle both journalistic and public obligations that the network might have. You would attend press junkets; be on talk programs to promote HRT, generating interest in the programming, promoting upcoming events and even aiding in damage control when necessary.”
“I really have no interest in reading David Letterman’s top ten…”
Tolan and Crockett both laughed. “You are certainly welcome to do any appearances you wish, provided you clear them with the promotions department first.” Tolan pointed out.
“Mr. Tolan…Jack.” Ian felt the need to ask. “What about my department, is that being taken away from me?”
“Absolutely not.” Jack wasted no time in telling him. “This would be in addition to your executive duties.”
“It should only amount to a few hours a week. Although, during sweeps and convention season…” Crockett started listing.
“I am sure Ian is aware of promotion schedules, Lance,” Ian got the feeling Tolan didn’t care for the man.
Tolan returned his focus to Ian. “You would be considered an even greater asset to this company, and hopefully generate some much needed credibility for HRT--and yourself, of course.”
Ian wasn’t sure it was a great idea, but he also knew that in light of what had happened, to his chagrin, he really didn’t have much of a choice. “I’ll be happy to do whatever I can, Jack. You know that.”
Jack smiled, “I knew you’d see things as they are. You are a bright young man, with a bright future. That’s why you are here.”
“Thank you sir.”
“Now why don’t you set aside some time for Lance, here, and together create some more good buzz for us, then take the rest of the day off.”
“Of course, sir.” Ian was disappointed he had been dutifully been taken out of the game and made a cheerleader, but he wasn’t going without a fight. “Jack, what about the meeting this afternoon?”
“Oh, I’m sorry, I forgot to tell you. A few members of the board had conflicts, so we’ve rescheduled for tomorrow morning at 10. I am expecting good things from you young man.”
Ian was overcome with relief, although still uneasy about the situation. Crockett wanted to begin their session immediately, but Ian managed to put him off long enough to inform his staff to get a few ideas stirring in team pot and a few tips from Wella.
The extra time afforded by the rescheduling would help to get a few decisions made. While nothing definite had to be laid out at tomorrow’s meeting, it would give him space to green light a few projects; know which ideas to develop, which to put on hold and what to just scrap. He forgot he was supposed to go home early and spent the rest of the day in a flush of creativity.
To Ian’s surprise offers were pouring in, everything from talk shows to record deals, even Playgirl Magazine. Ian dutifully turned them all over to Lance Crockett, hoping it would keep him busy and close the door on the gnat that now seemed to be turned loose in his house. Ian was embarrassed, confused and amazed by it all.
No comments:
Post a Comment