Starting and growing an agency can be a rollercoaster of highs and lows, excitement, and challenges. Reflecting on a recent conversation with Kevin Gibbons, we delved into the reality of agency life and the essential mindset for navigating its turbulent waters. If you're considering starting your own agency or are in the early stages of building one, this post aims to share some practical advice and insights to guide you on this journey.
Is Building an Agency Right for You?
First and foremost, it's crucial to determine whether this path truly aligns with your goals and passions. As Kevin jestingly mentioned, his initial advice might be "Don't do it," but this tongue-in-cheek comment underscores a deeper truth: building an agency isn't for everyone. It requires a commitment that goes beyond the allure of success stories. You need to be prepared for a marathon, not a sprint, with many agency founders looking at a tenure of five to ten years, if not longer.
Embrace the Long Haul
Understanding and accepting the long-term nature of this endeavour is vital. Rare are the stories of swift success followed by an early exit. More common is a journey filled with persistence, learning, and gradual growth. This path demands a clarity of purpose and a passion for what you do, ensuring that the inevitable ups and downs contribute to your growth rather than deter your progress.
Stay Level-Headed Through It All
Kevin highlighted the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective through both successes and setbacks. Celebrating achievements is as important as not getting disheartened by failures. Agency life is replete with moments that test your resilience—rejections, lost opportunities, and the constant pressure to perform. Yet, it's this very journey, with all its trials and triumphs, that shapes a successful agency.
Accepting the Cycle of Success and Failure
Recognizing that agency life is a cycle of successes and failures, highs and lows, is crucial. This acceptance helps in not getting overly attached to moments of triumph or unduly disheartened by setbacks. Each phase is temporary and teaches valuable lessons that prepare you for the next step. The key is to see every experience as part of a larger journey of growth and learning.
Be Prepared for Sacrifices
Building an agency is far from a nine-to-five job. It requires sacrifices, long hours, and a commitment that goes beyond conventional work boundaries. This dedication, however, is what can lead to significant rewards, both personally and professionally. It's about being ready to do whatever it takes, knowing that the effort can lead to fulfilling outcomes.
Actionable Advice for Aspiring Agency Founders:
Reflect Deeply: Before diving into agency life, take time to consider if this path truly excites you and aligns with your long-term goals.
Embrace Resilience: Prepare yourself mentally for the challenges ahead. Understand that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to learn and grow.
Celebrate Successes: Don't overlook your achievements. Celebrate them, as they are crucial milestones on your journey.
Maintain Perspective: Keep a balanced view of the highs and lows. Neither success nor failure is permanent, and both offer valuable lessons.
Commit to the Long Term: Understand that building a successful agency is a long-term endeavour. Patience and persistence are your allies.
Prepare for Sacrifices: Be ready to make personal and professional sacrifices. The commitment required to build an agency often goes beyond regular working hours.
Starting an agency is a challenging but potentially rewarding venture. It demands a deep understanding of your own motivations, a resilient mindset, and a readiness to navigate the inevitable ups and downs. By adopting a balanced approach and preparing for the long haul, you can build a foundation for lasting success in the dynamic world of agency life.