Lyle Jenks of Bond X

Tools of the Trade is a feature to help highlight the many tools that help make advertising and marketing folks successful. The tools can be anything that helps people perform at their top form, from a favorite drafting table to the best software program to a lucky pen, a vintage typewriter or a pair of headphones.

Next up is Lyle Jenks, executive creative director at Bond X.

What is one tool you use all the time at work, and how does it inspire your work?

The Yeti GX microphone.

Why is it your favorite?

The Yeti GX has become an indispensable part of my work setup. We all know how important video calls have become for our day-to-day work, and as someone who presents a lot, it’s crucial to sound clear and professional.

Your basic headphone mic just doesn’t cut it. The audio quality can be poor and distracting. With the Yeti GX, I ensure that I sound great and there’s no compromise on clarity. Plus, having the boom arm visible in video chats sends a subtle signal to clients and coworkers that I’m a little crazy about quality. It’s also a frequent icebreaker—people usually comment on it when I get on a call.

It’s useful for any chat, from quick team check-ins to client presentations, and it’s also my go-to for recording voice-overs for scratch tracks in our video spots. And while it’s primarily a home office tool, I can detach and bring it with me if I need to.

How did you acquire your tool or hear about it for the first time?

Like many, I upgraded my home office during the pandemic. Stuck at home, I realized the importance of good audio quality and started researching microphones. Our Logitech G client happened to have the perfect solution. The Yeti GX was easy to set up and use, and it quickly became a staple of my daily routine.

How does it help you be successful?

It’s amazing how much confidence a good microphone can give you. There’s something about sitting in front of a high-quality mic on a boom arm that makes me feel like a professional broadcaster. That confidence is invaluable, especially during big concept presentations or new business pitches. Clear, crisp audio helps convey ideas effectively and ensures that my voice stands out.

Does it have sentimental value?

As much as a microphone can, yes. It represents a time of major change and adaptation for me. The shift to remote work was a significant adjustment, but it also brought new flexibility and opportunities. When I use the Yeti GX, I’m reminded of how our work environments have evolved and how we’ve adapted to new ways of communicating.