A Formal Reminder of Who We Are & Why We're Here

Last week we shared our new website which really embodies our shared purpose. To provide support to those in our industry that need it. Thanks for the wonderful feedback and new suggestions. This new website feels like the first domino falling.

Over the weekend I took the time to pause and reflect on what makes this community so special. As we continue to grow, welcome new voices, and face new challenges, it's important that we have a common understanding of why The Bureau exists. So today I'm eager to share with you our new community guidelines.

The Bureau Community Guidelines

The Bureau has always been more than a collection of events, Slack channels, and Zoom calls. It’s a space where people who lead creative teams can show up as they are. Uncertain, imperfect and working to improve. And when they do, they know they'll be be met with honesty, empathy, support, and insight.

That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we agree, explicitly or not, on how we want to treat each other. And having this in a format we can share with new and prospective members is very valuable. So... I wrote it down. I give you The Bureau Community Guidelines.

1. We’re Here for Each Other

This is a place for leaders and their teams to connect, learn, and grow. Show up ready to listen, share openly, and support one another. Assume positive intent, and remember we all have different experiences that shape our perspectives.

2. Keep It Human

We value the person behind the role. Speak to people, not job titles. Celebrate wins, acknowledge challenges, and treat every conversation as a chance to build trust and understanding.

3. Respect Confidentiality

What’s shared here stays here. We call this The Bureau Oath. It creates a safe space for candid discussions about leadership, business, and life. Don’t share stories, screenshots, or identifiable details outside the community without permission.

4. Give More Than You Take

Share resources, answer questions, and contribute to discussions even when you’re not looking for something in return. The strength of The Bureau comes from members leaning in for each other.

5. Ask Clearly, Answer Honestly

Whether you’re seeking advice or offering it, be specific and direct. Clear questions and candid answers lead to better outcomes for everyone.

6. Keep It Constructive

We can disagree without being disagreeable. Challenge ideas, not people. If you have feedback, make it about the work, the process, or the approach, not the individual.

7. Collaborating Over Selling

The Bureau isn’t a place to find customers. You need to build relationships before pitching. And even then, there is a designated space for it. Share what you offer in the #shameless-self-promo Slack channel, but do so in a way that provides value first.

8. Protect Our Safe Space

Flag behavior that violates these guidelines. A quick message to the admin team helps keep our community healthy and aligned with our values.

9. Own Your Impact

We all make mistakes. If you cross a line, acknowledge it, make it right, and move forward. Accountability is a strength, not a weakness.

10. Live the Values

The Bureau is built on mutual respect, authenticity, compassion, knowledge, support, and empathy. Keep those in mind as you interact with the community.

Like everything in our world, these guidelines are a living and breathing document. We won't change them lightly, but we're always open to your ideas and suggestions.