What can creative agency account managers learn from an account manager in the software industry?, with James Aldrich

James Aldrich is a major account manager with over twenty years experience in both business development and account management in the software industry. James's sector speciality is telecommunications and I invited him to share his experience to see similarities and differences between the account management role in the creative industry and software industry. Despite starting his career wanting to be a film director or a guitarist in a band, he found himself in account management which has not only opened up many career opportunities but has also allowed him to fulfil his ambitions outside of work. In this brilliant chat, James shares his thoughts on: * How your own network is one of the most important aspects of your role and how it can bring value to your clients, your company and to your own career * Why it's important to choose a company to work for that aligns with your personal values * How and when to ask for referrals * Why business development and account management are similar roles * How sharing insight into how other industries work can bring value to your clients * How 'buddy systems' enable junior account team members to get up to speed quickly * Why taking a 'customer first' approach to everything you do leads to success * The importance of ensuring every client communication and touchpoint reflects your company values * Why you should learn from how other industries operate * Why you should always be curious and look ahead to what's changing in your industry and your client's industries I really enjoyed this chat and I hope you come away with some reminders and inspiration for other things you could be doing in your career or role that will be valuable to you, your client and your agency.