So...The week is off to a running start- a client cracked a fit today, flipping out over a previously approved storyboard that inadvertently started a cascade of work which culminated in myself and a colleague working past 11pm today.
I wonder- "Why is there such an adversarial relationship between clients and their agencies?"
Aren't we all geared towards the same objective? Better mind share and awareness of said client's brand?
If snakes and hamsters can live in harmony, I see no reason why client-agency relationships should continue to be antagonistic.
Furthermore, I find it counter-productive for a client to initiate the pitch process, select an agency and then continually micro-manage the "expert communicators" they've hired to do the job.
Yes, I agree, the client/agency handler has vested interest and is responsible for the retainer costs and marketing expenditure- requiring strict accounting and adherence to KPI. HOWEVER, the agency has a similar if not equally accountable objective- conceptualising and executing cohesive marketing communications plans that work.
Unprofessional, sloppy and ill-planned communications efforts that do not work cast not just a bad light on the agency in question but also damage the reputation of the firm. This hit to reputation directly impacts not just the client but in effect handicaps the firm with regard to future projects and pitches.
That said, take a moment and consider this- "Do you tell the doctors what medicine to prescribe?"
Let us do our work and let us produce the comms-medication for what ails your company. Dick measuring and politicking hurts everyone.
