Just moved agencies and from creative/strategy to account. My team is huge with lots to review and lots of levels of review with no PM and no formal process or review system. The people are excellent at getting the work done well but sometimes late, and the staff are stressed. I want to reco a simple off-the-shelf software that helps prioritize, assign, and provide links/attachments for needed docs. Suggestions? And ideas for getting the elders on board? They're fine with status quo.

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Not to be a downer, but if leadership is ok with the status quo, I’d just figure out a process for yourself with the existing ways of working. I’ve been on several teams that have attempted this, but implementing software like this is an uphill battle even when you have support of leadership. Without their encouragement and participation, it’s doomed to fail.

like

When you say elders, do you mean leadership? Or people working in the existing process that are used to it/would resist change?

If it’s leadership - almost any software will have case studies that show how their system can help your team be more efficient.

If it’s people working in the existing process, propose your idea, let them rip it to shreds (because they will), wait a few weeks, then ask for feedback on what they’d like to see improved in the process. I bet their answers will help you frame your idea so they will be more interested, and since it won’t be the first time they’ve heard the idea, it won’t feel as new/uncomfortable the second time.

As for recommendations:
1. Workfront
2. Ravetree

like

Came here to say sounds like a job for work front but ALSO recco a really good book on service design — ‘Good Services’ by Lou Downe that has been super helpful for me in thinking about process. Also I would recco to do a couple of post mortems/design thinking sessions with the team to capture their insights and build a process around them. Always check with the executors of tasks before building anything for them ☺️ and then choose the tool that fits that!

like

Jira is the ideal solution imo. Start small with Basecamp just to get your team using software and then pivot once they outgrow the basic task list.

like

Maybe the reason they are fine with the current situation is because they aren’t aware of or understand the necessity and function behind programs like these? Or has conversation on the subject been had previously, and the thought been shut down? Though it shouldn’t be falling on your shoulders in the first place, perhaps if you could come to the table with a couple different suggestions, their associated cost/potential cost-saving/employee engagement and productivity impact/etc., they may be more receptive to the idea? Another thought, do you think that there are other members of your team, from across the disciplines, that would be on board with tag-teaming this effort alongside you? May be more impactful showing up as a united front.

Oh and, duh, sorry- in answer to your question… based on what has been employed at the various agencies I’ve been at (and think pretty much constitutes what is most commonplace):

Best experience:
1. Basecamp
2. Workfront
3. Asana

Worst experience:
1. Email- Just absolutely, 100%, straight-up no 🙅🏼‍♀️
2. Microsoft Teams Planner
3. Hive

like

Related Posts

Tag lines for Fishbowl

Joining Deloitte. I just submitted my documents to immigration. How long will it take to file my H1B case with USCIS? It’s wired big company like Deloitte is using third party law firm for H1B transfers.

Anyone able to provide info on market comp for biglaw 5th-year in the Midwest (non-Chicago)?

like

Please explain if we get internet reimbursement outside the CTC?? Not the tax exemption part . I have heard we get 1200 per month for internet . Is it true ?

like

Has anyone participated in a PD or series of PDs on issues dealing with race and equity that led to meaningful changes? Would love to learn more about them.

like

Anyone joining Pune Location as DATA ANALYST in July or August ? let's connect

Has anyone had an issue with index match and lookups returning NA when trying to manipulate data from a password protected workbook?

If you contribute partially to traditional 401k & partially to Roth 401k at your company, does it get confusing at all when it comes time to withdraw? Is it better to (cont.)

like

$1000 monthly recurring investment through Acrons? Aggressive portfolio.
Anyone else using Acrons here?

likehelpful

529 Plan: For folks living in no-income tax states (Texas, Florida etc) and have 529 plan. Did you go with a brokage acct( Schwab, fidelity etc) or just a state plan? If you went with a state plan, what state plan did you go with and why? Thanks

like

Any good books to read this winter break? On leadership, digital, or any autobiographies?

like

What are some good companies to work for in technology space, especially cloud consulting and architecture. I already know about Microsoft, AWS & Google but asking to see others within technology consulting space.

like

What are the best firms for Wealth & Asset management consulting?

like

Hi Fellow Fish,
Have a friend applying as an Experienced Hire (10+ direct experience) for a Sr Mgr Ext Comms job. Tier 1 city. Any idea of compensation range? Other things to know? Thanks!

like

I have an offer with Citi Chennai for 36 l PMO and IBM for 27 l... Which gives better work life bal?

do you have any coping mechanisms you’d recommend for students at an alternative school? We have a lot of meltdowns and apathy and lack of motivation

like

“Those who vote decide nothing. Those who count the vote decide everything.” ― Joseph Stalin

like

Best mentoring advice you were given?

like

Hello! I'm a Manager II (Automation) in PwC and looking for exit opportunities on West Coast. What kind of roles should I target? I would like to go to a product company, rather than consulting.

Please,needs a referral to Novartis. Thank you

like

Additional Posts in Account Management

Is 7 weeks too early to start thinking I may have made a huge mistake in switching to my current gig? I left the last place because it was overr toxic and terrible W/L balance, for one that seemed to be more “fun” and more realistic hours, only to find that I’ve now been working 12 -14 hours a day and just drowning and feeling like I cannot catch up or catch my breath. Everyone is in the same boat here which is why I’m so overwhelmed so quickly with no support. Is this an immediate red flag?

like

Any account managers in here for chemical sales? Want to learn more about it...

like

I am not in account but would love to have a more comprehensive take away from meetings particularly client feedback verbalized. How do you account folks do it? Tips and tricks? Thank you!

like

I am looking for an account executive with production experience to work on a fun national beverage account. 3-5 years experience. Located in nyc. Dm me for more info.

like

Throughout my career, I have worked at both “traditional” and “digital” shops. My current agency would fall under traditional but also offers digital services. Our process, roles and skillsets seem way outdated but I wasn’t sure if it was just my opinion or if this is just how it works. For example, we have no CTO or tech leads. Our digital producers feel more like project managers than actual producers. Account Management is just traditional, no real digital knowledge. Feels layered and dated.

likehelpful

Looking for some advise - starting on a new project for a luxury fashion client and don’t have experience in the industry. Any watch-outs or tips to be aware of? Just want it to go smoothly ☺️

How much are my fellow VP Account Directors out there making? Just trying to gauge if I am being paid fairly. Don’t forget to state market and YOE. I am making $135k, 10 years of experience and in Chicago.

like

Tired of hearing all the "account people suck” comments on this app. Get some new material creatives.

like

For those of you in healthcare related account management, what is your healthcare background? I am clinical and getting ready to hire a higher level account manager. I am really biased toward people with clinical/in hospital experience because, quite frankly, healthcare is a different beast - lots of hand holding and change management. I don’t want to miss the right person because of my bias, so im wondering how many healthcare related AMs have healthcare/clinical experience… thanks in advance!

like

Any thoughts on Laundry Service?

Are there any Certified SCRUM Masters, or Certified SCRUM Product Owners here?

I just got the certifications and I am wondering if it would be worth it take the more advanced courses (paying out of pocket).

like

I have overall 3 years of post grad experience but 2 years of AE experience. Is it unrealistic to apply for Senior AE roles? How about Account Supervisor?

like

Transitioning to become an AE - how often do you guys typically travel (pre-covid)?

like

I need contacts who are into bank instrument and MT103 transfers within USA and Europe. If you are a good sender or receiver let me know.

like

What’s the average time spent in an AE role? I’m eyeing an SAE position and feel like I’m already taking on some of this responsibilities

like

What are some good practices during the sales phase of a potential project to execute before the contract is signed? Seems obvious but would love some ideas on standard operating procedures that help with seamlessly handing over a signed contract to the account team. For example, speaking to the potential client explicitly about their role in staying on schedule, reviewing scope creep consequences, etc.

like

I got a promotion a year and 3 months ago, and got a pay raise 5 months ago. Could I still ask for a promotion to SAE if I have been supporting a team more as one? Promotions are hard to stab with.

I want to quit without a job lined up. My agency is a dumpster fire of incompetent project managers, revolving door of creatives and culture of not holding people accountable amidst a micromanaging gossipy leadership. I just want out. Tell me it is ok and will be alright.

likeuplifting

How many years into your career did you start to feel jaded about the industry? I only have 4 years under my belt and still believe it’s fun and challenging, but I see so much negativity on here.

like

For those of you who have had to develop a "thick skin" how did you do it without becoming a robot? In the beginning, I just cried at work all of the time. I've gotten better but I'm generally sensitive so kind of an outlier. Could use some advice, thanks

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal