Pony tails, black clothes, moody and of course carnt spell.
Creativity is a talent that you’re born with. You’ve either got it, or you haven’t. Sure you can train your brain. Read all the mags. Keep your mind in tip top creative condition. But basically, you can’t polish a turd.
Being a “creative” in an agency is great job. Firstly, you don’t have to pay any attention to an exec, everyone knows that one. Why? Well it would break convention for a start and it keeps them on their toes, they’re only glorified copy collectors. Next, you are allowed to be rude, to anyone! You must wear black clothes at all times. No idea why, but we like this one. Oh yes, the pony tail. It’s not compulsary. But what is compulsary, the one thing every creative is taught at design college is, “Say what you like and like what you say!” A little like Gordon Ramsey. He’s creative cooker isn’t he? Which brings me to my point.
Would you go to one of his restaurants, order your food, then run off into the kitchen and cook it right in front of him? Yeah, bloody right you wouldn’t! Clients think they’re creative. They’re not. If they were they would be working here with us. They’re frustrated creatives I’ll give you that, but certainly not creative. So here’s the problem.
They critique work whilst holding a pen in their hand. You’ve done it too I know you have. From my point of view there’s nothing worse than working like a dog and dreaming up a really good idea, nurturing it, crafting it and then presenting it to find, after a few moments you have written all over it.
Now don’t get me wrong here. Some constructive critisism is fine. It’s healthy. It can help improve a layout or idea. And it’s probably good for business. But just promise one thing. Just don’t scribble on my work. That pen that you’ve brought along with you, keep it in your briefcase. If there’s something you want to say about the work, do so. But without adding pen marks here there and everywhere. Is that too much to ask? Good, now we’ve got that straight I’ll be right down and blow your socks off with some great creative!
Why have a dog and bark yourself?