How can you work better with creative professionals in an advertising agency?

1 Understand their role

The first step to working better with creative professionals is to understand their role and what they contribute to the project. Creative professionals are not just order takers or executors. They are strategic thinkers, problem solvers, and storytellers. They have a unique vision and skill set that can enhance your campaign and make it stand out from the competition. Therefore, you should respect their expertise and input, and trust them to do their job well.

2 Communicate clearly

The second step to working better with creative professionals is to communicate clearly and effectively. This means defining the objectives, scope, budget, timeline, and deliverables of the project upfront, and providing them with a clear and concise brief that outlines the target audience, the key message, the tone and style, and the desired outcome. You should also give them enough background information, context, and research to help them understand the project and the client. Avoid vague or contradictory instructions, and be open to feedback and questions.

3 Give constructive feedback

The third step to working better with creative professionals is to give constructive feedback that helps them improve their work and achieve the project goals. Feedback should be specific, timely, and actionable, and focus on the strengths and weaknesses of the work, not the person. You should also explain the rationale behind your feedback, and how it aligns with the brief and the objectives. Avoid micromanaging, nitpicking, or changing your mind too often, as this can frustrate and demotivate the creative professionals.

4 Appreciate their work

The fourth step to working better with creative professionals is to appreciate their work and acknowledge their efforts. Creative work can be subjective, challenging, and stressful, and creative professionals often face tight deadlines, multiple revisions, and client demands. Therefore, you should show them that you value their work and recognize their contributions. You can do this by saying thank you, giving praise, providing incentives, or celebrating successes. A little appreciation can go a long way in building trust and loyalty.

5 Learn from them

The fifth step to working better with creative professionals is to learn from them and grow your own skills and knowledge. Creative professionals have a lot to offer in terms of creativity, innovation, and inspiration. They can teach you new techniques, tools, and trends, and help you develop your own creative thinking and expression. You can learn from them by asking questions, listening to their insights, observing their processes, and collaborating on ideas. By learning from them, you can also improve your communication and feedback skills, and become a better partner.

6 Respect their boundaries

The sixth and final step to working better with creative professionals is to respect their boundaries and work-life balance. Creative professionals need time, space, and resources to do their best work. They also need to recharge their energy and creativity, and have a life outside of work. Therefore, you should respect their working hours, avoid unrealistic or last-minute requests, and support their well-being and personal needs. By respecting their boundaries, you can also foster a healthy and positive work environment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?