Good ego. Bad ego.
Snapshot : Big agencies have an ego problem and it's bad for business
Ego has two faces and I think too many big agencies are feeding the monster.
Rampant ego prevents us from listening, from seeing other people’s perspective. It prevents us from collaborating in a way that really pushes for the best work in the project’s and client’s and customer’s best interests.
That kind of ego is selfish and immature and fosters a me-versus-them perspective. It's not good for morale, or for business.
Instead, healthy ego helps you recognize and lean into what you’re good at. It externalizes your self-confidence without alienating others.
Healthy ego aids in self-reflection because it helps you consider the context of feedback, and prevents inconsiderate comments from chipping away at your self-worth.
Healthy ego nurtures competitive sportsmanship.
I’m seeing too much ego warfare and agenda-pushing going on inside and amongst agencies. It’s beyond frustrating: it’s short-sighted and bad for long-term business.
Next time you flare up, indignant about this-or-that, ready to squeeze out so-and-so, worried about your position or idea or just about being right — consider what ego personality you’re feeding and what environment your actions are perpetuating (as a leader): toxic competition or sustainable collaboration.
I'm considering starting a mini-series to share quick notes and observations. Like a collection of signals that could evolve into deeper insights or feed new concepts.
Would you find value in these snapshots, or have thoughts on how they could be most helpful to you?