Viva turns 20: Lessons I’ve learned

This week marks Viva’s 20th birthday and being in PR, we never knowingly let a good milestone go to waste. Here are boss man Tony Garner‘s thoughts on the occasion.

We’ve come a long way from Viva’s original back bedroom office but most of the founding principles are intact.

Here’s what I have learned:

? There’s an awful lot of people who I need to thank for inspiring and supporting me over 20 years, but one person tops the list. Mrs G. She believed in me and got me through the darker days.

? Lancashire has real talent. You don’t need a fancy London address to produce work with real impact. We’ve long had world class manufacturers. We also have world class communicators, agencies and creatives. I love the fact that our team does amazing work for huge brands and blue-chip companies from Rawtenstall.

? Talent will only get you so far. Hard work is an essential ingredient for success and creativity. Then there’s an ability to get back on the canvas after you’ve had a kick to the cods. Resilience is the word de jour.

? You meet amazing people along the way. Acknowledge and appreciate them. A thank you and a kind word of encouragement is like a magic bean.

Viva is marking the occasion with a 20th birthday commemorative logo

? The going gets interesting when you start employing people. Employing people is a responsibility, a privilege and a challenge. Some think you need bling. For me, ping pong tables, slides and bars are all very well but our ethos is treat everyone how you expect to be treated. Honesty, openness and respect seem to work a treat at Viva.

? Having a world class mentor helps. Work on, not in the business, they say ‘but where do you start?’ You need a Sherpa to show you the bits that need your immediate attention.

? Enjoy the ride. 20 years has gone faster than the X43 to Manchester. The years between 10 and 20 were just a blink. Make sure you’re having fun along the way. Oh the laughs we’ve had!

Tony Garner, Viva founder and MD