Diversity in agencies and the value of listening properly

Saw an old friend last night, always good to catch up, he's like the more sensible and wise big brother.

Miss working with him too, as I'm one the those strategy types who has so many thoughts tumbling around I need to talk it through at length with someone to understand what I really think.

Then write it down quick. 

We all have different ways of working, we all have people who can help in different ways. Increasingly, I'm beginning to think that diversity is, of course important in agencies - not just colour and gender stuff, but the fact I'm convinced agency folks are more likely to hire physically attractive people than other industries.

Even worse, the generalisation is hiring people who 'fit the brand' -be that quirky, cool or in some cases, down right arrogant.

But I've found that I get far more out of working with people vastly different to me, especially in terms of world view (unless you like Queen, we all have line not to cross), but also how you work. 

Who accept my deep flaws and many flaws in order to help focus on my very few strengths. 

Building on that, isn't it dumb how many agencies like to hire 'characters' and then do as much as they can to make them all work the same way?

Now this will probably put you off ever working with me (I make amazing tea and coffee, even thorn has it's rose so it's not all bad) but thanks to people like my friend, I've learned that the most generous gift you can give to people you work with (and live with) is to actually listen. Really listen. So I give as well as take. 

Because really good work tends to be spark between very different people kicking things around, not a process and certainly not working alone waiting for a flash of insight that never comes. 

Anyway.

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[John]

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