In this edition of Workflow, we have Jessica Becker, Managing Partner of Manifest New York, talking about her recent evening creativity spurt and one coffee max rule.
Workflow is an interview series by Balance the Grind to get a glimpse into people’s working styles and workspaces. If you’re interested in sharing your workflow, submit it here!
Describe what you do: I’m the Managing Partner of Manifest New York, a brand comms agency that builds brands that change the world. We built the firm on the belief that great marketing is no longer just about selling products; it’s about starting movements.
How do you like your coffee: Oat latte. One per day max or I’m flying.
Device(s) you use: 13-inch MacBookAir, iPhone X, pen and paper for list making and note taking.
Describe your working style in one sentence: Morning is the best time for me to do creative work – whether that’s brainstorming ideas or writing. The afternoon is then for more practical work or operational things for the business.
For some weird reason, I get another creativity spurt late in the evening – something about being tired stops my brain from thinking as linearly and there’s often some good stuff that comes from those late night sessions (although it’s always littered with typos).

What does your workspace look like: I move around a lot based on the work I’m doing and how I’m feeling. If I need to get a job done, I’ll sit at the desk in our living room. If I’m on a meeting, I’ll move to the dining room table where I have more space to spread out papers – I’m big into taking notes and drawing things. The sofa is firm favorite spot for work late at night when I don’t want to feel in quite as much of a “work mode”.
Do you have a favourite playlist for work: Either silence (loser), or Soultronic or Rap Caviar (depending on how much of an energy boost I need).
Who would you like to nominate for the next workflow interview: Ali Maynard James, the incredible Managing Partner of our London office.
Before you go…
If you’d like to sponsor or partner with Balance the Grind, let’s talk here.
If you never want to miss one of our conversations about work, life & balance, subscribe to our newsletter.
Design anything, publish anywhere with Canva. Collaborate & create amazing graphic design for free.