Read the memo !

We are project managers.  We are trained in doing three things right :

1. Preparing work
2. Controlling work
3. Reporting on work

For the third thing, we use an almost infinite numbers of forms, templates and sheets to make lists of figures, tasks, issues, etc.  We send emails with a nice abstract and the report in attachment, and prepare for our periodical review meeting.

I have news for you : 

Nobody reads your email.

Ok, go back a little and read that again.

Nobody reads your email.

Indeed, unless you are writing reports that you'll be able to use to cover your ass when things go haywire, you'd better come up with a damn good strategy for getting your information across.  In my experience, the best way to make sure that your message is heard, is exactly that : by talking to people.  

If you have a report that you would like people to act upon, make sure that you are available to give feedback when people have questions.  For example, if you have created a new way of logging issues, send your email with instructions, but be sure to be available to help people to implement it.

On the other hand, if you have items that you need a decision for, first identify your stakeholders and present your case to them in person.  This will help you getting them on your side, and your report will be an aide de mémoire of what you discussed.

So, step back from the keyboard, and start talking.

Zing ??!

Everyone who's ever worked in advertising knows the scene.  You present a concept, a design, a rough to your client.  He looks at it with a "I know what I'm doing" look in his eyes,  leans backwards in his chair, makes an agonizing face and says :

"I don't know.  I miss something.  It could use some... zing."

And there you have it - that's your feedback.  Add some zing.

This blog aims at helping project managers in advertising in doing their job while keeping their sanity.  By adding some zing.  I don't know what "zing" is, but twenty years of dealing with clients, creatives, developers and managers have given me a good idea of what works and what doesn't.  Don't expect any method-pushing or even a glut of schematics.  Don't even expect a brilliant idea every day.    Just stop by now and then, and, who know, you may find some inspiration to fix that problem that's bugging you, or simply to make it through another day of pm'ing in advertising.

And all by adding some zing.