Today, we’re talking about how to structure your creative agency in 2023. The world of business is constantly evolving, and it’s important for creative agencies to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new challenges.
First, let’s start with the basics. A creative agency is a business that provides creative services, such as advertising, branding, design, and marketing, to clients. These services can be provided in-house or through a network of freelancers and contractors.
So, how should you structure your creative agency in 2023?
1. Specialization
One approach is to focus on specialization. As the competition in the creative industry continues to grow, it’s becoming increasingly important to differentiate yourself from other agencies. Specializing in a specific area, such as branding or digital marketing, can help you stand out and attract the right clients.
Of course, when we were just starting out, I said yes to all sorts of projects and clients to get more experience. But now, I’ve fine tuned my services to help us manage more projects faster. Along with this, I really began to niche down on who I was working with. When I decided to go full force with this, I saw a few things happen;
- I was mastering the topics I was talking about that made me more credible
- I was learning the industry ins and outs rather than learning a new subject with each project
- I became a credible source for projects within the industry as people began to spread the word
- I started to fall in love with the job. I was in the world I finally wanted to be in and didn’t have to pretend I knew what i was talking about (or pretend I liked what I was talking about !!)
2. Embrace Flexibility & Get Agile
Another approach is to embrace flexibility and agility. In today’s fast-paced world, clients often need quick turnaround times and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Consider structuring your agency in a way that allows for flexibility and agility, such as using a project-based model or utilizing a network of freelancers.
Throughout the two years I’ve been working on this business, you’d be surprised by how many minor pivots it takes to really specialize in what you want to do. And then just when you think you’re on to something, something changes that brings out a new opportunity or idea. For me, it was all about testing all aspects of the creative field to really understand what I was made to do. Does that mean I’ve found it yet? absolutely not – the field is forever changing and with that, I’m (trying) to adapt as fast as possible.
3. Understand & Research the Tools that Will Make your Life Easier
It’s also important to consider the role of technology in your agency’s structure. In the digital age, technology is a critical component of many creative services. Be sure to invest in the right tools and systems to support your team’s work and ensure that you’re delivering the best possible service to your clients.
This doesn’t mean that you need every shiny object you see – it means to need to do the research in finding tools that will really work for what you’re trying to accomplish. For me, in the beginning it wasn’t any fancy toys, it was finding the right automation tools that simplified my job.
I then started to look into upgrading my cameras, courses, my laptop, lighting, etc. But those only came when I knew I ready to take the next step into that direction.
4. Make Your Business a Home
Finally, don’t forget about the importance of culture and collaboration. Creative agencies rely on the talent and
expertise of their team members, so it’s essential to create a positive and supportive work environment. This can involve fostering a sense of community, promoting open communication, and encouraging collaboration and teamwork.
Investing in your team, caring for them, understanding how they work / how they live is important !! With anything, when you give value, it will come back to you in some way or another. There are many times I can think back on and wish I didn’t take the cheaper way out. In my opinion – You’ll pay for it in the long run.
In summary, there are many factors to consider when structuring your creative agency in 2023. Specialization, flexibility, technology, and culture are all important considerations. By being mindful of these factors, you can set your agency up for success in the coming year and beyond.
Here’s to a new year full of projects, pivots, and unexpected opportunity !!
Interested in learning more? Learn the in’s and outs of building a 6 figure creative agency, how to structure your social media, find your target audience, enhance your client experience and more:
Book a consulting call with Mel
x Mel 📲 @manukaasunday
