Q&A: Ogilvy's Shenan Chuang is in the hot seat

How did you get into the industry?
I had three dreams when I was young. My first dream was to become a writer. My second dream was to be a journalist. My third dream was to be an advertising professional. So far only the third dream has come true. 

What was you first job?
My first job was as a clerk at a trading company that exported raincoats :-) . It was that very dull year that convinced me to reshape my dreams.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
When I commit, I become obsessed.

On what occasions do you lie?
You will never know!

Name one thing about yourself that few people know.
I am very lazy at home!
 
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
'Why?' and 'why not?' 

What's your most evocative childhood memory?
Climbing trees in the garden of my family's very large courtyard. 

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Getting more than 35,000 followers on my Sina Weibo (Chinese Twitter) account in only 10 days.
 
What makes you happy?
I feel really happy when I can help people, whether it's through a monetary donation or just listening and giving advice.

What is the most interesting place you have ever been?
I loved traveling the Silk Road in China, Hokkaido, Istanbul, Paris, New York...  So many places can be interesting if you are with the right companions.

What was the last book you read?
Discovery of slowness by Sten Nadolny.
 
When did you last cry and why?
That's strictly confidential!
 
What is your greatest regret?
Never regret what you have done.
 
If you could spend one day with a celebrity/ historical figure, who would it be?
Queen Elizabeth I. She is my lifetime hero.

What do you see when you look in the mirror?
My wrinkles!!
 
Describe a typical day?
Spending time with people. Because we are in a people business.
 
Is there such a thing as work/life balance? (question supplied by PHD APAC's Cheuk Chiang)
It's a lifetime pursuit that requires wisdom, discipline and skills.

Can you suggest a question for our next Q&A candidate?
What is your definition of success?