Dear Corporate Bastards

It is best to begin by defining the intent or purpose of my cleverly coined title. I qualify “corporate” as those who are employed through a traditional distribution or network outlet who are in a position to sustain and strengthen creative independents. “Corporates” is something of a catchall phrase to create a caste or group. There are several more of these terms, but I don’t think I will justify any of them. Next, the seemingly hostile tone is to convey the frustration of these independents in communications with their corporate counterparts. Theses are vented frustrations from independent creators. I remember these frustrations, and do my bet not to do this to others. Pay it forward.

1. Respect : There is a certain amount of basic respect which is due to independents. Their courage to create content usually unfunded without secured distribution, and is deserving of the most basic of respect or courtesy. Often corporates assign a persons value directly to the quality or popularity of their project. Respect everyone, regardless. I remember the first year of Podcast & New Media Convention with the most colorful creatives I have ever met. Frankly, most were amateurs and very passionate, but not very talented or determined, and yet I respect them. You never know where you or they may be. Respect all.

2. Direction / Deliverables : Give independents a clear understanding of how you may utilize their talents if at all. It does not party any good to work under the assumption that there may be synergy or work together in the future if you KNOW there will be none. However if you do desire to see something different be specific. If there is a deadline or due date communicate that . Nothing worse to feel as if you failed a new corporate friend unintentionally.

3. Be Professional : Do your due diligence, and come prepared with any materials and even mental notes from any previous conversations. Chances are if you are meeting there were points of synergy and even some action steps that were to be made. Was that accomplished? Simply because you are busy does not justify it comes off as a disinterested suit, that may be wasting each others time.

4. Don’t Be Too Professional : Often corporates and independents differ not only in background and work flow, but also in personality. Do not come off as rigid or harsh. Don’t be that boss that you use to hate. Everyone wants to work with a professional, but not those few that feel the need to remind you that they are in control. No power plays, manipulations, or vague answers. Be simple, straightforward, and real.

5. Connect : Usually independent are looking to meaningfully connect with their corporate counterparts even if there is no business in it. Its as if the old High School “cliques” come into play. I have seen a few mixers that have done poorly due to the firm entrenchement of different cliques. Both sides of the aisle may learn to better network and connect if they stretched out of their comfort zone. Reach out, make a connection.

Conclusion : Understandably not all corporates are bastards. Most are excellent individuals, that I eventually am priveleged to call my friend. Even after a few rough starts. However, you may want to check yerself ever so often to ensure that you have not gradually become that which you fear, a corporate bastard.