Behind the Scenes: Reflection time
Taking a step back can offer valuable perspective.
After having a few weeks out of full time agency production world, it’s given me a little time to reflect on the work that I’ve produced over the last few years and the people that I’ve done it with.
One of the things that I most loved about producing, is that every project is different, the people, the process and the outcome. The one thing that does always stay the same is change, there will always be a new challenge, a new opportunity, a new way of making the same project.
Looking back, I’ve narrowed it down to these 5 key takeaways that define my approach as a producer:
Creativity doesn’t have an exact formula —it’s about finding the balance between vision and practicality. As producers, we sometimes have to play the role of ‘bad cop’ and say no because of the practicality of balancing the three elements of the production triangle budget, time and quality. But it’s imperative that this is also balanced with the vision of what creatively we are all setting out to achieve.
The best stories come from collaboration - without it, you may as well call it a day from the start. The absolute best projects that I’ve worked on are when you have a willingness from everyone involved to listen, collaborate and work together to create the absolute best content. Whether that’s a quick fire social post or developing a year long campaign. Collaboration is key.
Trust your instincts but always listen to your team - I like to think that I have a pretty good gut instinct. So far in my career, it’s served me pretty well. But it has to be used in conjunction with listening! I read an interesting stat the other day that managers who listen well, have 26% more influence over their team or project stakeholders - that’s a significant advantage! Looking back, a combination of active listening and trusting my instincts has got me to where I am today.
Flexibility is your friend; embrace change, don’t fight it - if you can’t go with the flow, then you are in the wrong profession. Roll with the punches, adapt when there is a problem, listen to those experts around you. Flexibility is your friend.
Personally for me, it’s about creating something meaningful, not just meeting a deadline - ultimately, the true reward of production lies not just in meeting deadlines, but in crafting something that resonates and leaves a lasting impact.
In the end, production isn’t just about the final product—it's about the journey, the collaboration, and the constant evolution that shape the stories we create. That’s where I find true passion and pride in my work.
For me, the search for that next challenge and collaboration has already begun.
Everyone needs to take a break sometimes. Even doodles.