In an industry where big ideas and creative genius are intrinsically tied to big egos, we sometimes need a reminder that while what we do is personal...we shouldn’t always take it so personally. As an ad girl, I know its cliché to turn to Mad Men for blog-topic inspiration, but last night a particular line really struck me... Peggy was upset that one of her ideas wasn’t being bought, and Don told her “You’re not an artist, you solve problems”. He followed it up with the equally inspiring line of “leave some tools in your toolbox”. Being on the account/strategy side of the business, I realize that this is easier said than done. I’ve seen the wind sucked out of many creative sails, and have done my share of trying to salvage and fight for a creative vision – all while doing a delicate two-step between client and creative. A colleague once equated account service to waiting tables (no, not the order taking, although that certainly plays a role in the analogy). Think about it...
A customer is unhappy with a dish and sends it back to cook longer (read: make the logo bigger), and while they’re at it, they decide to swap sides for something they think would go better with the entree. Now, a seasoned waiter would never deliver this “suggestion” to a chef without a heavy dose of tact. “Excuse me, brilliant chef? The gourmand at table 10 has asked that we make a few adjustments to their dish. While they really appreciate what you’ve done here, they prefer well done (I know, can you believe it!!). And while you’re at it, would you mind swapping sides – I think they are on some sort of a diet...”
Long story long, it’s important for us all to remember exactly what it is we are paid to do... solve problems. Sometimes that means the “original artistic vision” may take a few lumps along the way, but as long as we end up with a creative solution that solves the problem at hand, AND we have satisfied clients, AND the consumer responds with the intended action... If that’s not a creative masterpiece, I don’t know what is.
Bon Appétit.
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Am I the only one who thinks Mad Men is a) great but overrated and b) great but at times painfully slow? As Beth stated above I am legally and genetically bound by the laws of the advertising profession to have a connection with the show, and I realize Matt Weiner is the king of the understated detail (like Betty puffing away on ciggies while 8 months pregnant - awesome!), but every now and then if we can hit the gas on the story line, well that would be great. Don't leave all the tools in the toolbox, right?
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