Surviving the tougher times: The importance of resilience within agency life

Last week, we co-hosted a panel event with Agencynomics, bringing together agency leaders and experts to discuss how to build resilience in the workplace, particularly during challenging times. We were privileged to have Be Kaler Pilgrim, Founding Director of Futureheads Recruitment; Chris Hardy, PCC Certified Coach and Director at Treeka Consulting; Jon Mowat, Founder of The Hurricane Group; and Simon Douglass, Founder of Curated Digital, join us for an open and candid discussion, hosted by our very own Co-Founder, Dominic.

We have put together the key takeaways from their conversation, covering essential topics like psychological safety, strategic planning, and the importance of a shared purpose, making sure you don’t miss out on the best bits if you weren’t there in person (though sadly, no pizza or cookies included – sorry!).

What is resilience to you?

While explaining to her seven-year-old daughter that she would be attending an event about resilience, Be was met with an unexpected response: “I know what that means!” Her daughter elaborated with a simple yet profound example about falling while running. She explained that if she cried and didn’t get back up, that wouldn’t be resilience. However, if she got back up and gave it her best until the end, that would be resilience. We couldn’t agree more! 

The challenge however, is that this is easier said than done.

How to build resilience in the workplace

This brings us to a crucial question: How do you, as an agency leader, stay motivated and resilient while also inspiring your team to do the same?

1. Reading from the same page

A point that was thoroughly discussed by the panel was ensuring that everyone is on the same page. Chris highlighted the importance of psychological safety, where each team member knows their role, understands expectations, and feels rewarded for their efforts. Not surprisingly, without this, many people feel unsure about their responsibilities, leading to disconnection.

2. Build relationships across all company levels

Be followed on from this by spotlighting how building relationships across all company levels is important – sharing her approach of out-of-office walks to understand team members better. It’s true that being open as a leader and showing empathy builds trust through shared vulnerability.

3. Consistent messaging

Leaders need a clear communication plan to balance their honesty about management struggles without overwhelming the team. Consistency in messaging is vital here. Having a clear plan and adapting to changes ensures everyone stays aligned and avoids mixed messages.

4. Normalise challenges

At this point, Chris also suggested leaders and managers could support and encourage their team members to take risks in order to explore their capabilities and find their boundaries. Normalising challenges and potential mistakes during good times makes tough decisions during tough times less daunting.

5. Create shared values and purpose

Finally, focusing on your shared values and purpose consistently with regular comms and meetings helps recentre and motivate everyone in the team, reminding them of why their role is crucial and aligning them with your company goals. So, next time you see a meeting in your calendar that you’d rather skip, remember it’s for the greater good of the company!

Support systems and filling your own cup first

The discussion moved on and Dominic asked the panel about their support systems, noting that leaders, too, need help when times get tough. Simon shared how he relies on fellow leaders and agency owners for support. He highlighted the unique challenges leaders face, emphasising that talking to others in a similar position can provide fresh ideas, energy, and a sense of solidarity.

When it comes to self-care, Chris introduced the idea of “filling your cup first”. Leaders must take care of themselves to support their teams effectively. Chris likened resilience to a well-nourished plant in a healthy ecosystem, able to withstand storms and droughts. The key takeaway? Leaders have a responsibility to cultivate a healthy environment that promotes resilience.

Jon added that resilience is not just about personal recovery but ensuring your entire team can bounce back together. He stated, “So resilience is how quickly can I stand up again? How many times in a row can I stand up and keep standing up? But it isn’t just about your own resilience, it is about the entirety of your team. There’s no point in you just standing up and marching off if everyone’s left behind.”

Panellists’ words of advice

To round off the event, Dominic’s final question to the panel was to give one piece of advice or a key lesson learned to either their younger self or a fellow agency leader during tough times. Here are the panel’s final words of wisdom:

The session ended with a resounding emphasis to ‘focus on the basics’. Good sleep, exercise and time with friends – that’s what the panel distilled to be the fundamentals of looking after yourself both physically and mentally in order to remain resilient.

Building Resilience

If you are interested in learning more about incorporating and building resilience into your agency life, our expert Chris Hardy recommends a key resource for further reading:

Brené Brown’s book ‘Dare to Lead’.

For innovative marketing strategies to help your agency thrive, reach out to us. Let’s work together to build a resilient and successful future for your brand.