Agency Search 
Site Search Disruption Can Transform Agency Cultures
For the advertising industry, the past year generated some much-needed disruptions that could have lasting impacts. The COVID-19 pandemic forced agencies to reimagine workplace culture and support and calls for racial equality compelled organizations to examine their own commitments to diversity and inclusion. The results, top agency executives say, may result in systemic changes that benefit employees and clients, and spawn a new era of creativity and collaboration.
“We’ve learned how resilient our teams and our culture at our agency is,” John Gallegos, CEO of United Collective, said as part of “Future of Work” panel discussion sponsored by the 4A’s, The Impact of Changing Agency Models on Culture and Creativity. “That’s all from being flexible, fluid and understanding.”
Less happy hour, more mindfulness
It wasn’t long ago that agency staffs bemoaned grueling hours and hyper-competitive cultures. At one point, it was a source of pride for agencies to have showers in their office so beleaguered employees never had to go home, noted Kate Jeffers, president of Venables Bell & Partners. But the pandemic forced everyone to work remotely, she said agencies learned to adapt, with leaders attuned to their staff’s wellness and well-being.
“The best work ideas and solutions come from happy, motivated, inspired people,” Jeffers said. “I’m a believer in being clear on what we expect and what they need to deliver, and then being incredibly open in how they deliver it.”
The pandemic has also compelled agencies to reconsider what they offered to support and motivate employees.
“A move to build from foosball and happy hours to healthy foods, mindfulness sessions, yoga (virtual and in offices through social distancing) and more frequent check-ins with individuals is now more common and expected,” said Brian Nienhaus, the 4A’s senior vice president for member engagement and development, Central Region
Without a physical office and in-person meetings, remote work has encouraged more communications across levels, from CEOs to the newest hires. Younger employees in particular have found their voices, noted Nienhaus. He said they’re more confident to share ideas and expectations about office culture, staffing and operations.