The Creative Team: Notes on design and operation of creative organizations

As a creative lead who's existed in the middle mgmt realm longer than I wish to admit, I've acquired several books on this topic. I'm glad I happened upon The Creative Team for a few reasons. The first is that it's written for the current state of the industry, with advice on things like 'the quiet resignation' and how to adapt to our changing landscape. Also, it's to the point. As a whole, it reads like a book of solid advice from a creative leader. But what I also found super helpful (in our age of no time to read) is its bite-sized chapters. I regularly have issues with things like time management and addressing employee issues (I hate conflict). This book has a chapter for almost everything, I regularly skip around to read about things I need advice on in the moment. I was also heartened to read how being highly respected in your industry can (and should) coexist with being a kind and empathetic leader. Highly recommend it for people who want to understand how a creative team should work.

You always know a good book when you find yourself scribbling in the margins. This book summarizes perfectly the challenges for creative leaders with wisdom from author Andrew Carlson's decades of experience on how to make making the BEST job. From skilling to growth ladders, from tools to creative collaboration, Carlson breaks down all the pieces that come together to enable teams and leaders to do their best work. The chapters are pithy and solidly explained - not a word wasted my time. My copy is now covered in scribbles, but my favorite quote is on page 63: "You will not be able to put a training bandaid on the open wound of change ... stoke a healthy disregard for the old way." Scratch that, page 37: "Like all moral people of good character, I am skeptical of meetings." If you want more gems like this to rejuvenate how you look at problems big and small, this is the book for it.

This book was recommended reading for a graduate level PR class I'm taking. I've been a graphic designer for a very long time. On page 1 the author disses graphic designers, and does so again later in the book. If you're a marketing professional who can't art direct a graphic designer, you just aren't very good. He has some interesting points and talks like a storyteller but I wouldn't have finished it if it weren't required.

Creating, developing, and retaining a quality creative team is a challenge. This book presents real-life experience leading teams in digitally-led advertising agencies and developing creative work. In my leadership background and experience, much of this book also works for IT teams and IT product development. Some sections are pragmatic and so real I had to laugh, especially the sections on seating and on job descriptions. Other sections are inspiring, making the reader consider how they want to lead. Leading from strength and compassion is under all sections of the book. Worthy read with many take-aways that can inspire a new or early career leader. Also a good read for an experienced leader seeking a fresh updated perspective.

In a world where creativity thrives, there's a notable gap: the shift from being an individual contributor to helming a team of creatives. Andrew Carlson's book brilliantly illuminates this transition, showcasing that mastery in one's craft doesn't automatically equip one for leadership. Drawing from his invaluable experience leading iconic creative teams, Carlson's insights reverberate with authenticity. His perspective on questions like scaling influence and curating a team that upholds creative integrity is both eye-opening and invaluable. The essence of this book isn’t just about leadership; it feels like a mentorship encapsulated within pages. It caters not only to the freshly minted leaders but also offers a fresh lens for seasoned ones. For anyone navigating the nuanced realm of leading creatives, Carlson's 'The Missing Leadership Manual' serves as an indispensable guide. Dive in, and be prepared to metamorphose from just a leader of creatives to a true creative leader.

Title says it all. I finished the book in just under 3 hours of active reading, on the same day it was delivered. Lots of digestible and good nuggets to get a creative leaders brain moving. I've recommended it to my whole team.

For people who are transitioning from individual contributor to leading others, this an excellent overview of core questions you will start asking yourself. In marketing and advertising, it is easy to learn everything the hard way. This book helps you skip some of those hard lessons in a brief and informative way. It provides an outline for things to think about and gives you context and direction in finding the answers. You probably already know that you should probably care about finance, but in what way? Exactly how much and why? Carlson gives you answers. This book gives you guardrails and helps bring focus to the issues of the industry. I found it just as applicable to strategy as creative. If you are starting to lead a team in the advertising industry and want to learn (not the hard way) read this book.

I genuinely wish I had this book back when I started leading creatives, as I'm sure it would make the start of my design management journey somewhat easier. There don't seem to be many resources on this almost niche topic out there, and that's a pity. Leading a squad of creatives can be very rewarding, as much as it's ruthless sometimes. Dealing with stakeholders, hiring, planning, but first and foremost, defending the concept of the added value design/creative department generates, which is especially tricky at times, the book covers it all. It's became my handbook now, and I'm sure I'll open it more than once in the future. Thank you, Mr. Carlson!