People who work in the media don't like to talk about the recession, or the downturn: have you noticed that? We have to put on a brave face and give out the impression that we're constantly rushed off our feet, for fear of alienating those few potential new leads that might be out there. After all, success (or the appearance of success) breeds success.
But I'm not talking about me. I'm talking about advertising. You see, I used to do a lot of work for one particular advertising agency. And I got to know them well over a period of ten years or so. It was never particularly interesting or stimulating work, but it paid well. And they're charming fellows, the two 'suits' who run the agency - that is if you're a client. But if you're an employee or a supplier you're treated a little differently - and given a nickname, and a nickname that's only ever used behind your back; for it's a subtle means of keeping you in your place - and not to go getting ideas above your station. (My nickname was - and probably still is - Wilfred.)
If I had to describe this agency, then only two words come to mind: shallow and aggressive. For the sole purpose was to make money. Money to be spent on the directors' cars, mostly. Anyway, our relationship ended in tears. Because they decided that it was perfectly acceptable business practice to double-cross me. To their minds, they were simply quicker off the mark when it came to matters of client/supplier relationships - and that was an advantage that had to be exploited. Because that would save them money.
But that was years ago. I rarely give them any thought these days. But I happened to walk past their offices last night. At 5.50 in the evening. And the place was closed. All the lights turned off. Everyone gone home.
Now I ask you? An advertising agency shut up and gone home before 6pm? By traditional standards, that's only half-way through the working day.
I tell you, something's up. Maybe it's a crisis, maybe not. More likely a small outward sign of whole industry in transition.
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