Gueriilla Communications is a creative integrated agency that enjoys what they do and like to have fun with the people they work with. The clue is very much in the name. To learn more about the defiantly northern agency, we spoke to James Allen, Managing Director at Guerilla.
How was your company born and where are you based?
Guerilla Communications was born from a spark of revolution, a desire to challenge the norm and redefine the landscape of brand communications. Our journey began in the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Our name, Guerilla, was inspired by a quote describing Cuban revolutionary guerillas as "A small, yet extremely dedicated group of individuals that employs highly creative solutions to overcome more powerful adversaries." This resonated with us deeply, and we thought, "That's us!"
What was the biggest challenge to the growth of your
The biggest challenge was navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of the creative industry. Staying ahead of trends and technological advancements while maintaining our unique approach to brand communications was, and continues to be, a crucial aspect of our growth.
A big moment was when our Pan European brand Creation Benu won the Global Brand Strategy of the Year award at the Drum Marketing Awards. It was a proud moment for all of us at Guerilla Communications, reinforcing our belief in the power of creative thinking and strategic design.
What’s the biggest opportunity for you and your company in the next year?
The biggest opportunity for Guerilla Communications in the coming year lies in the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in the marketing industry. As AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, it is revolutionising the way businesses interact with their customers online.
Can you explain your team’s creative process? What makes it unique?
Our creative process is driven by a blend of courage, strategy, and creativity. We focus on creating brands and campaigns and content that not only get our clients noticed but also help build stronger relationships with their target audiences.
This approach, combined with our commitment and obsession to delivering real results seems to differentiate our offering.
How does your team remain inspired and motivated?
Our team stays inspired and motivated through continuous learning and exposure to diverse creative works. We also place a real emphasis on staying humble fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition, which keeps morale high.
How has COVID-19 affected your company?
Like many companies, COVID-19 has pushed us to adapt and innovate. We've embraced remote working and have found new ways to collaborate and deliver quality work to our global client base.
Which agencies do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?
We gain inspiration from a variety of sources, including renowned agencies like IDEO and Pentagram. Our heroes in the industry are those who consistently push boundaries and redefine what's possible in creative design.
What is one tip that you would give to other agencies looking to grow?
Stay adaptable and open to change. The creative industry is constantly evolving, and the ability to learn and adapt is key to growth and success.
How do you go about finding new clients/business? (Pitching, work with retainers, etc.)
We rely on a mix of strategies, including networking, pitching, and maintaining a strong online presence. We also focus on delivering exceptional work, which often leads to ‘word of mouth’ referrals.
What’s your one big hope for the future of the industry?
Our hope is for the creative industry to continue embracing diversity and inclusivity, both in the work produced and, in the teams, creating it.
Do you have any websites, books or resources that you would recommend?
"Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die" A book that explores why some ideas thrive while others die and how to improve the chances of worthy ideas.
Also “Alchemy: The Dark Art and Curious Science of Creating Magic in Brands, Business, and Life" by Rory Sutherland: This book provides a new way to look at problem-solving and decision-making in marketing and life.
