In an ongoing effort to interview some of the most productive creative leaders across industries, the Behance team recently had the chance to interview Anne Benedict, Director of Leadership Development for the Interpublic Group. As one of the largest creative agencies in the world, Interpublic experiences many of the challenges that creative teams typically face. Anne sat down with us to share her insights on effective leadership in creative teams.

Give feedback.
“More than just using a thumbs up/thumbs down approach, explain the ‘why’ behind your comments. Also, offer constructive feedback on the way the team is working, such as the processes they are using, as well as the quality of their relationships and behaviors that they are exhibiting.”

Be ready to give credit and spot talent.
“Good leaders develop talent and aren’t afraid to shine the spotlight on or give credit to a team member. Insecure leaders take the credit for themselves. Being a good leader may mean hiring and developing someone who is even better than you!”

Support risk-taking and failure, to a point.
“Leaders need to support risk-taking, but not to the point of repeated failure or poor execution. A poor idea with good execution is more excusable than a good idea with poor execution.”

Manage aspirations.
“Especially for your brightest talent, make it your business to know what they aspire to and what motivates them. Often with creatives, traditional promotions up the management ranks aren’t enough. Look for other ways for them to develop and see new perspectives, such as through new projects, job assignments, clients, media, geographies or work teams”

- Anne Benedict

Behance articles and tips are adapted from the writing and research of Scott Belsky and the Behance team. Behance runs the Behance Creative Network , the Creative Jobs List, and develops knowledge, products, and services that help creative professionals make ideas happen. All information (c) Scott Belsky, Behance LLC

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