The creative industry has changed! We have expanded our reach, and showcased the complexities of our industry, explained how creativity ties into business, and have leveled up a platform in which we have a better view of the table at which we sit. We have done all of this through “thought leadership”. Thought leaders hold a significant sway over trends, ideas, and the direction of progress. Yet, amidst their influence, we have increasingly adopted a blind faith that all thought leaders are the secret keepers of our industry.

Personally, there are many thought leaders that I look toward. Chris Do of the Future, has been a huge influence on my career not only in corporate, but in navigating an independent creative career. James Victore on being true to yourself and pertaining it to life in general. Mel Robbins on anxiety and living a hollistic life. There are an incredible amount of true-blue thought leaders who actually embody the leadership quality. In saying that, there are many who don’t but have a platform and lead the creative industry into potential pitfalls. This ties back into the old saying “not all managers are leaders”.

In my corporate career, it was emphasized that I develop a “personal brand”. Being the Brand Art Director, I know a lot about branding. I was kind, open, honest, out-going, proactive, knowledgable… that was my personal brand. It was what I embodied and strived to live out everyday. Yet, my boss could not tell me what his idea of a personal brand actually was. “You should be on podcasts, keynote speaking, panel discussions… you have to be a thought leader to be in this position.” Many buzzwords were being tossed in the air, and it hit me that… he really didn’t know enough to lead me in the way he wanted me to go. He heard these words and so it must be important. As his direct report, he could not explain what it meant to him - thus, how was I suppose to meet his expectations if they weren’t clear.

Firstly, let's address the parallel between thought leadership and the distinction between managers and leaders. While some individuals may hold prominent positions or enjoy widespread recognition, their ability to truly lead, inspire, and innovate may vary significantly. Merely occupying a space of influence does not inherently equate to genuine leadership. Similarly, not every thought leader possesses the qualities necessary to guide the industry towards meaningful advancements. In the creative industry for example - as independent creatives, we carry far more influence than if we were on a payroll. Yet within corporate organizations, we have a seat at the table, but do not have a voice. This is because there is a disconnect between high-level leadership and influencie leadership within creative industry… at least within this sector.

Embracing a critical mindset towards leadership in general, only enriches the collective discussion within our creative community. When we challenge prevailing notions and interrogate established norms, we open doors to fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. This diversity of thought invigorates the industry, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. This serves as a safeguard against stagnation and complacency and checking egos. By subjecting their ideas and actions to critical evaluation, we ensure that the creative community remains dynamic and responsive to evolving challenges and opportunities. Uncovering gaps within the market and inspiring conversation to meet those needs.

There are many leaders out there who regurgitate what has already been said. It’s a concept they’ve heard, or latched onto. Very few actually bring novel ideas to the table and even fewer take the time to truly understand what they’re preaching. Because they hold a mic in their hands, the collective begin to believe that they must be important and what they say simply must carry weight. By fostering a culture of thoughtful scrutiny, we can bolster the collective voice of the creative community, ensuring its trajectory towards actual progress, clarity, and change.

A Gallup poll in 2023 indicated that only 23% of employees trust the leadership in their organization.

The largest part of leadership is trust - not only from those you lead, but from those you seek to collaborate with. Trust is delicate. It is earned, not demanded. Thought-leadership prompts us to look beyond surface-level achievements and delve into the substance of their contributions - building that trust. Are they fostering inclusive environments? Do their ideas promote diversity and push boundaries? Are they advocating for ethical practices and social responsibility within the creative realm? These are the questions that demand thoughtful examination and a hard look into the fruits of their labor.

If we embrace a critical stance towards thought leaders, we promote accountability and transparency. It encourages those leaders to genuinely engage in constructive dialogue, address shortcomings, and strive for continuous improvement. Ultimately, this fosters a culture of trust and integrity within the creative community, enhancing the culture on a global scale.

While thought leaders undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the creative industry, it's imperative we approach their ideas and actions with a critical lens. Even more so, these leaders, need to be constantly open to constructive criticism. By acknowledging that not all influential figures embody true leadership, we elevate the collective voice of the creative community and propel it towards progress and growth, not only within our industry, but in our culture as well. Make room for perspective.