Everyone who works in the creative industry or marketing knows that good account management can make or break an agency. But what exactly is the secret to making it all work so seamlessly?
Our senior account manager Adele swears by the importance of collaboration and having a human approach when it comes to account management.
In this article, she shares what she’s learnt from her fearless leap into the world of branding and video production, what advice she wishes she could give her younger self, and why taking risks has seriously paid off for her.
What’s the most unexpectedly bold thing you’ve ever done in your professional career?
With absolutely no experience, I stepped out of the digital space for a hot minute and into the world of branding and video production. I’d always had an interest in the creative side but didn’t really know what it entailed or what doors it could open for me as an account manager. I was super lucky that previous mentors gave me a chance and taught me so much about these particular industries. Eventually I was able to work on high level productions in the TVC and photographic space for some really cool brands.
This all came to fruition by just having a willingness to learn. I’m glad I threw myself into the deep end because I wouldn’t be where I am today professionally if I hadn’t, and there is still so much to learn. Now being at Young Folks, I’ve realised that these skills are incredibly interchangeable and can still be applied to the digital landscape.
If you could describe your approach to account managing in just three words, what would they be?
Partnership, approachable, and collaborative.
I view the relationship between the account manager and client as a true partnership — we are the custodian of their brand within the agency and an extension of their team.
Approachable is an important one because not only are you that trusted advisor for the client but also an active member within the team to ensure they feel supported and are nailing the brief.
Collaborative is another super important one, and I’m honestly in awe of the team I work with. As an account manager I can’t do what a copywriter, performance specialist, or designer does — they teach me so much!
I don’t view myself as a set and forget type of account manager: once that brief hits the studio, I’m there with the team throughout every phase of the project.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting out in the industry?
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. When they say it takes time, it really does. It honestly takes about a year, or even more, for the penny to drop in a new industry and to get into the rhythm of things. I know all too well that imposter syndrome can seriously take over. At the end of the day, if you have a great attitude and a willingness to learn, that’s all you need to foster a rewarding and successful career down the line.
Also, find a great mentor. Having a senior that is on your side, willing to share their knowledge, and wanting to see you succeed is invaluable.
If you could choose one word to describe the culture at Young Folks, what would it be, and why?
Supportive. Since day one Young Folks have been so kind and encouraging. It’s such a simple thing yet it’s that human element that is often missing in many professional environments. I feel like I have a voice here and my input is always listened to with open ears. It’s a really nice feeling.
Describe a mentor or role model who has had a significant impact on your career and why they inspire you?
My dad has always been my biggest role model and supporter. He inspires me to strive for what I want professionally. He started his own business at a very young age and worked the hard yards for many years (and still does today.) He’s my go-to person for advice, and he encourages me to keep going. When I’m certain that I’m failing, he always talks some sense into me.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self when starting out in your career, what would it be?
You don’t know anything and that is okay, you’re not meant to! Listen, learn, and grow — one day you’ll be the person who’s leading the meeting or mentoring the new starters.
