The $6 Google Ad That Landed a Dream Job

Personal Branding, But Make It Hacker Mode

Picture this: You’re a creative director at a top ad agency. You Google yourself (don’t lie—we’ve all done it). But instead of a boring LinkedIn listing or old article, you see this:

“Googling yourself is fun. Hiring me is fun too.”

That’s the exact ad copy Alec Brownstein used in 2010 when he wanted a job in advertising.

He knew most people Google themselves. He also knew he couldn't get through the clutter of standard job applications. So, he bought cheap Google Ads targeting the names of five creative directors at top firms.

Each ad linked directly to his portfolio.

Total cost? $6.
Return on investment? Multiple interviews—and a job.

Why It Worked

Brownstein understood what few others did:
In a world of resumes and cold emails, creativity stands out. His campaign was funny, bold, and relevant. It wasn’t just personal branding—it was targeted personal branding.

More importantly, it showed that he could do exactly what the job required:
Catch people’s attention and make them act.

The Rise of Creative Job Hacks

This wasn’t the first time someone went rogue in a job search, but it sparked a trend. In the years since, job seekers have:

• Sent custom resumes inside pizza boxes
• Built entire websites mimicking the employer’s branding
• Dropped off singing telegrams in HR offices

And guess what? Sometimes, it works.

Not always. But when it does, it's because it speaks directly to what the employer values—and shows the skill rather than just listing it.

The Bottom Line

In an era of automation and AI-screened resumes, creative plays like Alec Brownstein’s stand out more than ever.

The next time you feel stuck in the application process, ask yourself:
“What would get me to click?”
Now go do that—because your next job might be one Google search away.