In the advertising world, it is common for there to be varying levels of tension between the Account Executives and the Graphic Arts Experts from time to time. Unlike a military war where each side is seeking its own interest, AEs and Artists both want to achieve the same goal which is to present finished artwork that is satisfactory to the client. So what is the source of the contention? Like the UN, I look at both sides to know what they are thinking.
Graphic Artists say:
- AE’s like to dictate the pace too much.
- They like to play artist.
- They ignore procedure.
- They give clients bad habits.
- Changes are not provided in a timely manner.
- Not enough information is provided in brief.
- Always bypassing the Traffic Manager.
- They always want the job now.
Account Executives say:
- Artists don’t understand that they are working at an advertising agency. Things change. It is a dynamic field. Clients change their mind.
- They like the excuse “I am an artist so I don’t read”.
- They are disorganised.
- Artists are supposed to be flexible people but they complain about changes.
- Can’t understand why they don’t understand how the client wants the job.
- They ask for more information, when they get it, they don’t read it.There is no empathy for the help we give. Instead, they complain that we micro manage.
- Whether it’s a 10×2 b/w or full page f/c, it’s the same complaint. A lot depends on their mood.
There is no need to call in the peace keepers however. This “fight” is proactive. It is simply the passion that left and right brainers have for their work and the desire to produce the best, which is usually the case.
