Many media and entertainment companies—especially if they are small or independently-owned—work round-the-clock to produce content and face enormous pressure to keep up with evolving media trends and the 24-hour news cycle. 

To be sustainable and grow in the media industry, it is important to have a strong team culture and an efficient, balanced management approach that factors in the needs of your employees at every level. Here are five management strategies for media companies to maximize productivity and keep things running smoothly. 

  1. Automate Tasks
    If you’re running a small media business, chances are you’re doing everything yourself. That means you need to make sure you’re not wasting time on repetitive tasks. One way to do that is to automate them using software. There are many tools available online that will help you manage your time better and to automate regular tasks instead of doing them manually.

    For example, if you use email to communicate with clients, set up rules that automatically send emails at certain times of day. You can also create automated reminders to help you stay organized. Another option is to use software such as Asana, which allows you to organize projects into different lists. Finally, you can hire virtual assistants who can handle administrative tasks for you.

  2. Create the Right Routine
    When managing a media company, it is important to find a routine and schedule that works for you and your team, whether or not that matches traditional work hours or what your competitors are doing. The key is to find a schedule that allows you and your staff to be at your most productive, without burning out.

    A schedule will help you stay organized and focused. If you’re not sure where to begin, consider creating a simple spreadsheet that lists each day’s activities. Then, add new columns as needed. In addition to helping you manage your time, a schedule will also help you plan out your week so you can better prepare for upcoming events. Routine also ensures you are getting the rest and downtime you need so that you are better prepared to face work-related challenges.

  3. Learn From Others
    You should also learn from others who have been successful at what you’re trying to accomplish. This includes reading books, blogs, and other articles written by people who have achieved similar results. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when you start thinking about how much work needs to be done. Hearing the stories of those who have been through something similar can offer reassurance and insight.

    For example, if you want to increase your productivity, you should learn from others who have been there before you. There are plenty of resources available online that can help you improve your work habits. One resource is the book The Productivity Project by Chris Bailey, but there are countless others with invaluable advice for business owners and entrepreneurs.

  4. Empower Your Employees
    If you’re looking to empower your employees, then you need to make sure that they feel valued. One of the easiest ways to do this is by giving them feedback. This can take many forms, such as asking questions, providing suggestions, or simply telling them what you think. You can also empower your employees by giving them access to tools and resources. This includes training materials, software, and other resources that can help them do their jobs better.

    Finally, make sure you are listening to your team’s ideas and rewarding their good work. This will show them that they are an integral part of the company, and help them feel personally connected to the success of your projects.

  5. Network
    Networking is an invaluable tool for media and entertainment companies. This industry is often about who you know, so it is important to form good working relationships at every level—from producers and directors to actors and content creators to your suppliers and contractors. By consistently showing up, providing value, making connections, and conducting your business with integrity, you will build a strong reputation and an extensive network.