Let’s be real—collaboration isn’t a new concept.
Every agency says they do it. Every job description mentions it. And every team claims they’re “great at it.”
But here’s the thing: most of the time, it’s just lip service.
At Front Burner, collaboration isn’t something we say—it’s something we build. Into our client relationships. Into our internal culture. Into the way we think, create, and problem-solve. And when it’s done right, it changes everything—from campaign results to job satisfaction.
Creating Space for Collaboration with Clients
Clients aren’t just “approvers” of content. They’re collaborators. They know their business better than anyone.
Some agencies take a rinse-and-repeat approach—applying whatever strategy they feel is best without fully considering the client’s unique perspective. At Front Burner, we work alongside our clients, involving them in the strategy and educating them on how things work and why our recommendations support their goals.
Keeping that constant communication going not only supports alignment but also helps clients feel heard—which adds more value to the work we do together.
Karri Morrison, one of our talented Senior Account Managers, built in a small but effective strategy during client meetings that opens the door for deeper collaboration.
She simply asks, “What’s new over at [Client Company Name]?”
Obvious? Maybe. But this one question creates space for clients to share updates—good, bad, or otherwise. We've seen firsthand how this opens the door to conversations that go beyond the current scope of work. These chats have sparked great content ideas and even new opportunities for growth.
Creating space for clients to feel heard and collaborate on solutions together makes a lasting impact.
Clients That Get It
There’s nothing better than working with a client who wants to collaborate—and brings their own vision to the table. Just ask Jay Kozar and Jason Lippincott.
They’ve been fortunate to work with one of our amazing clients who has a deep understanding of marketing. Watching the creative energy flow between them in meetings is a reminder of how exciting collaboration can be when both sides bring passion and clarity.
This kind of relationship doesn’t just make the work better—it makes it more fun.
Collaboration Isn’t Just for Clients
Working with different clients is one of the joys of agency life—but the collaboration doesn’t stop there.
We collaborate with our own team every single day, and honestly? It’s what keeps Front Burner’s spark alive.
Now, I know what you’re thinking:
“Yawn! Collaborating with your team is literally the most basic part of any business.”
Fair. But here’s the thing—not every company actually fosters a culture where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to work as a team.
That’s rare. And we don’t take it for granted.
Collaboration Is in Our Core Values
Every single one of Front Burner’s values is rooted in collaboration:
- Keep Up the Heat = Collaboration
- Create Connections = Collaboration (obviously)
- Empower Growth = Collaboration
- Spark Joy = Collaboration
- Do the Right Thing = You guessed it… Collaboration
I could make a case for each one (and I probably will at some point), but you get the picture.
Creating Space for Collaboration with the Team
One way we make space for open, honest collaboration? Bonfires.
Yes, we’re committed to the branding.
Bonfires are intentional meetings where team members can bring up challenges, roadblocks, or questions. Someone calls a bonfire, and we show up ready to listen, troubleshoot, and build an action plan together.
Agency life can get overwhelming. In other environments, you might feel like you have to figure everything out on your own—or worse, hide the problem entirely. Many of us came from that kind of culture before joining FBM. Even our founder, Jan.
That’s part of why she built this company the way she did—and why we fight hard to protect a culture that celebrates learning, openness, and helping each other out.
More than a Buzzword
Is the concept of collaboration new or earth-shattering? Of course not.
But creating real space for your clients to collaborate with you—and participating in a company culture where asking for help is a strength, not a weakness—that’s a rare find in an agency.
And it’s what makes Front Burner different.
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