This week on Own It we’re talking to Kerry McKibbin from Mischief. What can you say about the success of her firm? They’ve been in the top three agencies on Ad Age’s A-List each of the last four years, including topping that list twice in that time.
Their work is amazing. Their success is something we’re all both impressed by and maybe a little envious of.
As you might imagine, I tried to mine her for all sorts of insights from her journey, her leadership, her thoughts on the business and more.
There’s so much good to glean from this episode. You’re going to love it.
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A true leader shows genuine care and listens to their team, extending small, thoughtful gestures that make a significant impact. They also invest in the mentorship of junior staff, guiding them to understand complex aspects of the business and fostering their growth.
The unique circumstances of the pandemic created an environment where founding partners, who might not have otherwise connected, coalesced quickly to start Mischief. This period of widespread disruption paradoxically offered an opportunity to bypass traditional hurdles and rapidly establish a new agency.
A distinctive aspect of Mischief's success is its deliberate creation of a workplace where fear doesn't drive decisions. This means fostering kindness, empathy, and mutual support, rather than blame or internal politics, allowing for bolder creative work and a more human approach to business.
A key lesson learned from ownership is that many industry practices and pressures are not as fixed as they seem. Leaders have the power to challenge assumptions, decline unfavorable conditions, and prioritize the well-being of their team over perceived obligations, thereby shaping their agency's fate.
Successful ventures are built on a clear, collective vision that inspires all team members to work towards a common goal. This vision is best realized when surrounded by a diverse group of individuals who possess complementary skills, fostering collaboration and mutual support rather than individual ambition.
