For those old enough to remember, we used to work in an industry populated in part by over inflated egos, larger than life characters and over the top self obsessed individuals. I liked to call them 'peacocks', with less emphasis on the 'pea'.
In years gone by I¹ve sat amongst the throng at awards ceremonies totally bemused by the bravado and delusions of grandeur displayed by those collecting their shiny plastic acknowledgements of success (Yes, I know it¹s what they represent that counts and we should be proud of our achievements, but there’s a limit to the whooping and high fiving). On more than one occasion I¹ve sworn ‘never again!’ but then been drawn back by morbid curiosity in following years.
We recently went to The Cream Awards at The Mint in Leeds, and things have really changed!
Firstly, the venue wasn’t perfect - too big and too empty for the few who bothered to turn out on a blustery November night - but that’s forgivable if the rest is amazing. It wasn't.
People attending all seemed to be telling stories of lean times and hardship. The organisers were almost apologetic for the turnout and the format of the event, promising it’ll be bigger and better next year. Not great for improving the prevailing atmosphere and ever decreasing expectations.
The actual awards were presented at break neck speed to agency teams who couldn’t wait to escape the stage, lingering only long enough for the obligatory peck on the cheek and a happy snap with their lack lustre prize. It was almost as underwhelming as this awards presentation:
[youtube:x9ytDCZS9oM]
The work shown looked good but, once again, all a bit rushed to take in the crafting and the conceptual quality.
All a bit disappointing. Sadly though, I believe it’s indicative of the whole mood and state of the area, the country and the world. Everyone seems a little too embarrassed to have a good time and celebrate success.
Surely, in hard times, when the going is so tough we should make more effort to celebrate the positive things that we do. As an industry we should still be able to hold our heads up high and be proud of our contribution to the industry and the world.
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I miss the preening peacocks!
