The ‘X-Factor’ of creative leadership. 1 of 10. Set a good example. 

You’ve been working hard as a creative. Getting good work away. Making significant contributions to new business wins. Going above and beyond. You’ve probably become what is referred to by some as a ‘cultural architect’. Someone who exhibits leadership behaviour without being in a defined leadership role.

These people are the heartbeat of any successful company. Manifesting values and attributes, at the coal face, for all to see and be inspired by, every single day.

So, you’ve already been setting a good example. You may have had compliments. You may even have had some jibes or ‘banter’ thrown your way. Some people do get quite envious of others who work hard and get on. But pay them no mind. You now have your reward. 

A promotion. A pay rise. A bit more to tuck away in your pension. Maybe healthcare or a car allowance perhaps. Result.

When you embark on a leadership role, I think it’s really important to understand what got you there. Interrogate whoever promoted you and ask them to go into detail about why you were chosen above your peers. Insist that this meeting happens. Then make a list of these qualities and overlay them on what good qualities you think you already have.

The common ground is your ‘special sauce’. 

Bring these qualities into your day-to-day leadership and use them as a foundation upon which to build your career as a leader. 

This is equally important if you’ve been taken on at a new company from a less senior position somewhere else. Make sure you understand exactly what your new employers think they are buying into.

You have a lot to learn but don’t try to be someone you are not. Double-down on what has got you to where you are and use these behaviours to set your own good example every day. Leadership is a learning curve but don’t replace what you have with podcast buzzwords and motivational speaker soundbites.

Be yourself, as they say. Because everyone else is taken.