1) As production partners, we are increasingly being approached early on to help develop concepts. It’s the realization of what we have been advocating for some time; early involvement means more successful productions start to completion. It’s like a cooking challenge where you are given gourmet ingredients and are asked to come up with a delicious meal. To be a trusted partner requires strong, experienced producers who know all of the complexities involved in producing all kinds of media. That allows creatives, both agency side and directors, to focus on what they most enjoy with the protection of knowing what’s possible. This movement is also part of what I see as the renewal of the relationship - that with all things being equal, you choose to work with people you trust to solve the puzzle. It’s a people-driven industry and we’ve seen a refocus on valuing the relationships forged and the interest in collaborating in a more resourceful, more open way.
2) As the relatively new President of the AICP Southwest chapter, one of my big goals is to foster more connectedness throughout the chapter. We have exceptional talent here, but often operate in silos and identify with where we work rather than operating as part of a creative community. If we can encourage a sense of place and pride in the region, we will raise everyone’s profile as a creative destination.
3) To be completely who we are, and appreciate it. We aren’t going to be all things to all people, and we are okay with it. We compete not by trying to be like other companies, but by being ourselves. Too often, people are lured by the shiny object of what’s trendy or by competing through similarity. Resisting that temptation in favor of going by instinct, being passionate about what you have to offer, isn’t always as simple as it sounds but it is, in the long run, more valuable. This isn’t a resolution as much as a reminder: be yourself.
4) To continue to invest my time in people I care about. Mentoring and developing talent and on a broader scale. To be appreciative of that simple idea, and act on it.