Creators and designers of John’s Phone Hein Mevissen and Diederiekje Bok are the founders of John Doe Amsterdam. It all started in a historic shipyard in Amsterdam, where Hein Mevissen and Diederiekje Bok run their own creative agency John Doe. With a panoramic view of old steamships and shipbuilding gear to inspire, they gained the freedom to come up with fresh ideas. A many-sided couple; they create advertising, produce and direct commercials (Mevissen directs commercials all of the world for several agencies) and invent new products. Most recently they very successfully introduced John’s Phone – dubbed ‘dumb phone’, since it’s the simplest mobile phone on the market.
What are you working on right now?
We work now on the next John’s Phone design and its campaign. Hein is also busy with directing Short Film in Los Angeles.
3 trends that excite you?
Mobile technology and all technology regarding film: like HD pocket cameras for professionals and consumers 3 D movies and retro trends.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Just do it. Make it happen.
What inspires you?
Humor. We work hard and take our jobs seriously. But there’s always time and space for a good laugh. Which means that we don’t take ourselves too seriously.Which is how you give fresh opportunities and ideas a chance.
What is one mistake you’ve made, and what did you learn from it?
Not everybody is an entrepreneur. There is a difference between employers and employees. An employee can be an undertaking person, but is never an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs speak an other language; better to start new projects with people who speak the same language.
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
When you start making your own product like our John’s Phone, film everything. The whole process from sketch, finding first factory in China, etc. In the end you have a great documentary film in hand for sale.
What is one tool that helps you bring ideas to life?
Our brains.
Who would you love to see interviewed on IdeaMensch?
Gilbert & George.
What is your favorite professional line?
Average people fear talented people more than they do death.
What is your favorite life line?
Stop being so difficult.
Who would you like to meet in person?
Clint Eastwood and Steve Jobs.
And Gilbert & George.
Connect:
www.johndoeamsterdam.com
www.heinmevissen.com
Twitter: @johndoeams
Mario Schulzke is the Founder of ideamensch, which he started a decade ago to learn from entrepreneurs and give them a platform for their ideas.