Tuesday, April 14, 2009

An open letter to account executives

Dear Account Executive(s),

How are you? I am fine. Well, actually, not so fine.

There's something I've been meaning to talk to you about. It's about our apparent lack of interest in managing a) the client and b) the account and c) me and the production of our creative product.

Somewhere along the way you confused the role that you were hired to play.

Contrary to popular belief, you job is not simply to set up meetings, then show up and wait for things to happen. Sadly, that alone would actually suffice, providing you did something in those meetings...say, take a note or two, or follow up with a contact report.

I've been in several meetings recently where multiple account people argue and talk over each other, unable to figure out what the actual assignment is....until finally they give it to the creative team and we work it out.

I'm tired of babysitting you.

I''d rather that we fought ceaselessly about the creative project than wallow in your apathy. There's no room for anyone not giving 110%...especially in this market. Every job needs love.

In conclusion, I'd like to say this -- being an excellent account executive is every bit a creative exercise as coming up with the big dog and pony show. Make it your damn vocation or get out of the business. Bring it, for a change. You might actually find you enjoy it.

Your friend,

Franny Glass

3 comments:

Blodwynn said...

ditto.

v.w. is 'trium'

Tri, um, doing what you were hired to do.

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

oh i am so inspired by you....

it is the most perfect letter ever and the picture just makes it.....

I heart you!