A True Think Tank.
November 1, 2011 at 12:03 am

ThinkTank Digital is a leading digital media agency that specializes in social media promotions as well as online brand awareness and publicity. ThinkTank served as Lady Gaga’s digital agency of record for 2 and a half years. The company helped Gaga break social media records for her albums THE FAME and THE FAME MONSTER (EP).

Established in 2006 by founders Tynicka Battle and Amina Elshahawi, ThinkTank Digital is becoming a leader in online brand awareness for companies nationwide! I got the opportunity to interview Tynicka to find out the inspiration behind ThinkTank Digital. You can access our interview by clicking on the subtitle above or scrolling below.

What inspired you and Amina to start ThinkTank Digital?

Tynicka: Amina and I were inspired to start ThinkTank Digital in 2006 because we felt we could add accountability and professionalism to a very informal, learn-as-you-go industry at the time.

What were some of the challenges you faced getting ThinkTank Digital started and how did you manage to overcome those challenges?

Tynicka: Our biggest challenge was figuring out a name! We seriously considered several, including the logos for them until we settled on ThinkTank. We finally just picked option 34,237 which was ThinkTank Digital. LOL

How do you and Amina use fear to work for you rather than against you?

Tynicka: Amina and I are paranoid worry-warts which can be a terrible combination. When we’re not scaring ourselves to death, we at least use that fear as motivation to stay conservative to avoid being burdened by monthly bills we cannot handle.

Is there a certain book or movie that inspires your work?

Tynicka: I am personally driven by rags-to-riches tales. Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations” is one of my favorites. Of course we also love Malcolm Gladwell books too. I also like Zig Zilar.

If the younger, inexperienced version of yourself came to you today and told you that she wanted to start a digital media agency, what advice would you give her?

Tynicka: I would tell her to stop talking about it and just get to work! Amina and I really did not hesitate much when we started ThinkTank. It was literally an overnight situation. You have to have a certain impulsive nature or be insane to take that kind of risk. I’m glad that Amina and I were impulsive and insane enough to do this as young women back in 2006.

What advice would you give someone that was sitting on a great idea, but lacked the confidence or skills to get started?

Tynicka: I talk to people with this same problem weekly. Aside from ThinkTank, Amina and I have had other creative ideas. Not all of them will work, but you really will not know until you give it an earnest try and put all of the resources you have behind it.

ThinkTank handled the online publicity & tastemaker screenings for Kevin’s record breaking stand up theatrical release “LAUGH AT MY PAIN” – CLICK HERE!!!
Skill is key. Confidence will follow once you collect your first check! If you lack the skills then you need to decide if you are ready and willing to invest in the education necessary. You need to be a student of your craft – always.

Do you offer any internships or career opportunities?

Tynicka: Yes we do! We are looking for an intern right now! We need help during the week in our midtown NYC office. Serious inquiries should be sent to jobs@thinktankmktg.com

Where do you see ThinkTank Digital in 5 years?

Tynicka: We see ThinkTank Digital as an arm of a larger ThinkTank media company, with two additional satellite offices in Atlanta,GA and Chicago,IL.

What are some of the things you luv about entrepreneurship?

Tynicka: Waking up each day and knowing that it could be a good day, or a GREAT day based on the amount of effort and enthusiasm we put into everything that we do.

How does ThinkTank Digital Spread Luv?

Tynicka: I make it a practice to set up informal phone chats with young aspiring entrepreneurs who contact me on Facebook and Twitter. I tell them everything I wish I knew back in January 2006! Namely – no, you’re not crazy and yes, just do it!

Feel free to stop by our website to learn more about our company. You can find us at: www.thinktankmktg.com Also, please be sure check us out on Twitter and “Like” us on Facebook. Thanks for your support and we look forward to hearing from you soon!! http://spreadluv.com/2011/11/01/a-true-think-tank/