Life in a PR agency: Five ways to shine

But make no mistake, agency life is not without its challenges:

But by far, the most important thing I’ve learned about agency life is a fact that is not exclusive to working in an agency: We are in the business of people. We answer to our clients, work together (sometimes fight together) to produce the best work and build relationships.

Here are lessons I’ve learned:

1. Lead, follow, or just get out of the way

It’s important to read people, and equally important to read situations. Sometimes you have the unpleasant experience of realizing you may have stepped in too aggressively—or not aggressively enough—and find you have to correct your course.

There is no right way to step into a new client/agency relationship to ensure that it’s healthy and for the long term. However, you can sharpen your emotional intelligence and gain experience in working with people. Additionally, nothing beats clear communication with your team. Rely on senior management to be your mentors (and help them help you).

2. No surprises

Whether it’s concepts, scopes of work, bills or budgets, there should be no surprises between you and your client. At least, no surprises coming from your end.

3. No understudies on game day