working together

Over time and through trial and (yes) error, CONE has honed a way of working with clients that supports us to do our best work, achieve your goals, and honor everyone involved. While we are always open to suggestions and bring an attitude of flexibility to our work, the principles below are foundational.

Our work is collaborative. Coming from a background in ensemble theatre, we work through dialogue and have found that regular, open communication is the key to understanding our clients’ goals and work, meeting deadlines, and successfully finishing projects. We strive to be responsive while protecting personal time (both yours and ours), and we ask you to do the same. Email is typically our preferred way to communicate, but we also use text messages and calls for emergent needs. We are open to using other tools that you suggest as well.

Our work is hands on. We meet at least monthly with clients via video call or phone in order to discuss project nuances, organizational and programming changes, new goals, and upcoming deadlines. This time supports us in developing strong relationships and providing high quality work, and we are happy to meet more frequently or add additional check-ins as needed. All meetings are considered billable or retainer hours depending on your contract.

Our work is deadline-driven. We will create and manage calendars and work plans that give us ample time to provide close, critical attention to each project and to meet all deadlines. You are our partner in this work, and we will need your input and approval in order to move forward. Our ability to meet deadlines is dependent on receiving requested information or approval in a timely manner.

Our work is responsive. We use the information you provide to us through conversation and documentation to achieve your goals, and we ask for attention to requests for information. We hold the highest standards for confidentiality, and we know from experience that honest communication about challenges and capacity allows us to provide you with the most insightful consultation and impactful strategies. On a technical note, we use Google Drive to create, edit, and share materials. If you have a particular project management tool you love or a preferred method of collaboration, let us know.