Designed to Lead
July 5, 2023
Dear Designer, we know how much you love Figma; we love it too. Playing Button Smash while brainstorming and designing with delight. Figma has been a consistent part of the lifestyle of many Designers, so we paid attention when they had their Config conference a few weeks ago. One of our biggest interests was the session with Airbnb's co-founder about being Design-Led, because it syncs with our cause of empowering creatives at a small studio.
We genuinely believe that Designers belong in the boardroom where critical business decisions are made; and the spotlight should find them and their gifts. Take a second and reflect on Apple and even Airbnb; successes propelled and sustained by the power of intentional design.
In 1997, Apple was struggling and on the brink of collapse. Steve Jobs returned with an unconventional approach. Understanding the power of design and its ability to shape experiences, he laser-focused the organization on aesthetics, user-centered design, and intuitive interfaces.
His Design-informed decisions transformed Apple from a mere technology company into a global powerhouse of innovation. Fast forward to today, design remains the core of their identity, which drives their products to become coveted objects of desire.
In a world where hospitality rules and most brands compete on price and convenience, Airbnb became a game-changer. It did this by integrating the concept of design-love into its DNA. Airbnb crafted experiences that resonated with the hearts of travellers worldwide.
Every aspect of Airbnb's brand exudes thoughtfulness and care, from its distinctive logo to its meticulously designed listings. Design became the catalyst for creating a lovable, global community of hosts and guests.
As a Designer, if you don't see how all of these relate to you yet, here are a few of your gifts that make you a natural leader;
1. Empathy: As a designer, you have the innate ability to empathize with users, understand their needs, and design solutions that address them. Your empathy extends beyond users to encompass teams, stakeholders, and the broader ecosystem, fostering collaboration and understanding.
2. Storytelling: You are a natural storyteller. You can weave narratives through visuals, bringing ideas to life and captivating audiences. Your storytelling ability is crucial for building compelling brands, rallying teams around a shared vision, and connecting with customers on a deeper level.
3. Iteration: Designers embrace an iterative mindset. You constantly seek ways to improve and refine your work. Your agility and willingness to iterate make you an adaptable leader who can navigate the ever-changing business, technology, and customer needs landscape.
4. Systems Thinking: You excel at seeing the big picture while examining intricate details. You understand how individual elements come together to create a cohesive whole. Your systems thinking skill enables you to envision and build harmonious, efficient, and delightful organizations.
Dear Designer, the gift is already yours to flex! Everyday you infuse beauty, and empathy into people and processes; and it gives you perspective and the natural ability to lead on purpose.
Embrace your gift!
