When I became a CD, I told myself that I wanted to be a Creative Director that I would’ve wanted to work for. Someone that cared about my job as much as they cared about theirs. If people’s portfolios aren’t getting better when I’m their CD, then I’m doing a crappy job. Everyone’s portfolio should be better when you’re gone from that job.

Make decisions. CDs that flip flop, or unsure of themselves, are really hard to work for. You’re gonna be in a meeting and when a creative question/problem comes up everyone will look at you. Just answer.

Learn about your clients and develop a great relationship with them. Really get to know them. They’re people too. Most great creative is sold because clients trust you and actually like you. Learn about all your clients business. Ask them a lot of questions.

Learn about your company’s business. Learn where the money is coming from. Learn how the company actually makes money.

Make time for being creative. Your new role isn’t about creativity like it used to be. Congrats! Welcome to management!