Every company and every product has a face behind it. That's how it should be, especially in a business environment that is focused on relationships. With our company, I'm the face of the storytelling division, while Sue is the face for our marketing clients and Nathan is the face of the design division. It's important that we're consistent about this. If I tried to step in and exert my power in Sue's department, it could profoundly damage our relationships with clients and with each other. The same would happen if she suddenly tried to assume command of the story based work of our company; clients would be, at the least, confused. At worst, they would see what could be a misunderstanding as a conflict within our company. There has to be balance.
I'm seeing the same need for balance with our authors. I guided Robert, for example, through the writing, publishing, and branding of his book, but he's the face of the conversation. People need to feel comfortable with whom they're sharing their ideas. That means there are times when I need to step back. I would have loved a picture with the mayor of Los Angeles last weekend, but it would have been inappropriate for me to insert myself into that situation at this juncture. At the same time, however, people need to understand that I'm a decision-maker, that they can come to me to discuss the Barrio brand and the curriculum. I have to be out there just enough so that my input is valued, and so that people know that I should be approached about things. As part of this balance, I'm constantly reassessing when I should pull back my ego, versus inserting myself in moments when the brand will benefit. It's delicate. Sometimes I feel like I'm threading a needle, but I think we're achieving this balance.
It's crucial for businesses and artists of any kind to understand when to be the face and when to keep behind the scenes for the betterment of the brand. And again, consistency is key. It's never a good idea to confuse those in the position to help you achieve success!
Comments(1)