Image above: Timothy Archibald.
Review the top takeaways from our first Where We Are Now which took place on Friday, March 20th and will continue every Friday at 11:00 am. Workbook and Heather Elder will host this new series in which we gather a different panel of industry professionals to talk about the current business climate. The first panel included Dawn Kleidon – VP, Executive Art Producer, FCB Health, Wendy Gordon – executive integrated producer, Heather Elder – artist representative and Kourtney Sellers – photographer. During the discussion the panel answered questions submitted by listeners that ranged from if, how, and where to promote in the current climate and how best to use the down time to prepare for a better future.
Some important takeaways from the first Where We Are Now are:
-The buyers and producers on the panel said they were still bidding, buying stock imagery, renegotiating talent contracts, and buying CGI and illustration services. They are of course working from home.
-We are a community that is not used to saying or hearing the word “no.” We are conditioned to always think there is a way around a problem. The current situation is different from anything that has ever come before in this regard. We must accept it is not safe to work together right now and should use downtime wisely to prepare for the the future when things improve.
-Some suggestions for how to spend the downtime: Brainstorm ideas for new portfolio images, or shoot new images if possible to add to your portfolio. Reflect on creativity and process to see where improvement can be made. Pick up the phone and reconnect with colleagues to maintain relationships.
-How and what to communicate, especially with clients and buyers. Emails should for the most part be solution oriented. Social media is probably the best place to show new imagery and promote your work, but think and plan future promotional mailing for when the time is right.
-It’s a good time to review contracts to be sure you are covered for the unexpected.
We hope you will join us this Friday. CLICK HERE to sign up for more information on all future webinars.
