Marketing agencies typically have a pretty collegiate feel and this may come across as a lack of a truly disciplined culture.  Opinions are sought and respected, and junior staff will often have a lot more personal responsibility than would be the case in other businesses.  A flatter, organisational structure can have a lot of benefits in terms of delivering work, but it can also create challenges – particularly in the 2034 workplace where more remote working occurs.

There’s sometimes a fear of having a disciplined culture in an agency. A fear that it might push staff away and contribute to churn, or stifle creativity.  This can mean that all too often staff explore their own interests and focus on the work that they want to get through rather than doing what needs to be done.  Good discipline in an agency has a positive impact on productivity. It will also improve morale through clear reporting structures and greater equality of purpose and responsibility.

The 5 golden rules of a disciplined agency

Leaders Lead by Example

Every tier of management in should follow the same levels of accountability and professionalism as they expect from staff.  Following rules, turning up on time, and following the same processes as is the same for everyone.

Expectations and Consequences are Clear

How can a person achieve standards if they don’t know what is expected of them? The expectations of the business should be clear to all staff as should the consequences.

Provide Recognition When Standards Exceeded

If the consequences of not meeting expectations of a disciplined culture in your agency are the stick, recognition for exceeding those expectations are the carrot.  Providing positive feedback, praise, and bonuses when staff go beyond their role is important in encouraging progress.

Train, Reward and Develop

Regular agency training and development opportunities should be a natural part of a growing agency.  As you win clients and staff progress upward, there should be opportunities for others to follow in their footsteps. Ensuring that staff have structured training to help them progress into a new role when they are ready is important.  This has the benefit of reducing staff churn and ensures that each generation of staff understands the agencyculture.

Everyone is Equal

The fastest way to lose a disciplined culture is if the same standards are not expected from all staff.  Expectations should be identical whether you’re the MD or a junior developer. If those standards are not met, the same procedures should be in place .

Can We Help you create a more discplined culture?

Creating a disciplined culture in your agency shouldn’t be about creating strict and oppressive environments.  It should create a productive and respectful workplace where employees feel motivated to do their best.  We can help if poor discipline is getting in the way of growth and you’re worried that your agency isn’t as effective as it could be. Simply fill in your details below and we’ll call you back to discuss your concerns and talk about what we can offer to get things on track.