Like all true Seattleites, I worship summer. The long days, the balmy temperatures, and the countless ways to enjoy nature make the preceding winter gloom worth it. My favorite place to be during Seattle summertime is aboard a sailboat, sun on my face and wind in my hair. Sounds pretty nice, right?
While I can’t be sailing all the time, I’ve realized that many lessons I’ve learned on the water also show up in how we manage marketing projects at 2A. Below are some common tips for better project management and better sailing, nautical themed pashmina afghans not required.
Try to predict the weather
Business and weather are both difficult to predict. The wind stops blowing or worse, gets too severe. Clients can be hamstrung by both too little or too much business. But by tuning into what’s next in the industry, we can deliver fresh marketing content that helps clients proactively confront their upcoming business challenges. Likewise, don’t forget to check the weather report before you get in a sailboat (Weather Underground is my favorite source) – it will help shape your strategy for the day. It’s not always accurate, but forecasting is a part of good preparation for any project.
Set a course
In sailing and project management, you’re likely to get to your destination faster if you know how to go. By setting detailed goals and continually charting your progress, you’ll figure out what it takes to get from start to finish. This will also help you weather a few surprises along the way. On a project or a sailboat, the worst place to be is lost, so ensure you know where you’re going and how to get there in an organized way.
Communicate with the team
A good day on the water starts with a good crew. You need to know who is trimming the jib or holding the tiller, since you can’t really do both at the same time. Knowing and communicating different roles is key for literal smooth sailing. At 2A, communication between our consultants, writers, and designers is how great content and visuals unite for effective marketing deliverables. Understanding the compatibility between these roles and collaborating effectively are crucial for successful projects.
Mitigate those risks
After nearly colliding with a Victoria Clipper on the Puget Sound, I’ve realized that far off risks can turn into immediate emergencies if you aren’t proactive. While it can be exciting to wonder what’s going to happen in 5 minutes, its best to eliminate the uncertainty. In project management, asking the client for clarity on messaging or thinking longer term about marketing strategy can help avoid future headaches.