Hey there,
We’re nearly there. On the cusp of 2024 and with 2023 in the rearview mirror, it’s worth pausing to reflect on the year past.
December is always a quirky sprint in the agency world: a three-week dash through work, sprinkled with Christmas parties, power drinking, and, alas, the occasional heartbreaking Yankee Swap (because bad Secret Santas are so last year).
So, was 2023 a Good year? It's been a mix. Tightened economies mean marketing sometimes takes a backseat, and we get it. We know it means rolling up our sleeves and scrapping for the work. But here's the flip side – it's also been incredibly rewarding. Watching the business evolve, witnessing personal growth – that's the great stuff.
If I had to pick one highlight this year at Good, it would be nailing our strategic game. Our vision to 'make brands better understood, respected, and valued' feels more alive than ever in our client collaborations.
This autumn, I laid out a refreshed strategy for the business which clearly set out where we’re going to play, how we’re going to win…and what capabilities we need to get there. It condenses down into three very clear themes, which communicate the essence of the strategy broadly and clearly. Everyone gets it, and it’s reinforced frequently when we gather for team meetings and updates. I take that as a win. Too many of these documents end up being long, verbose and difficult to understand. Not so here. If we're preaching effective brand strategies for clients, we better be living it. And we are.
Reflecting on this vision and strategy, taking a moment amidst the chaos, it's truly rewarding to see it unfold gradually over the years.
Equally rewarding? Seeing our people thrive in new roles. We’re big on promoting from within, giving our team space to grow. I love watching them stepping up and leaning in. And I love watching others help them do it. What’s surprised me is that witnessing this has become one of the most professionally fulfilling and rewarding aspects of running my own business. I always thought it would be the rush of the pitch, chasing the win and delivering great client work. And whilst that has its own sugar rush, it’s fleeting in comparison to seeing the garden grow. It's not just about business success but about the individuals who want a part of making that happen.
So, as we wrap up this spiky, tricky, trying year, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The strategy is in motion, our team is evolving, and we're fighting fit for whatever 2024 throws our way. Bring it on.
Wishing you a festive season filled with joy. You deserve it.
Cheers,
Chris
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