What In-House Designers Should Remember:

We are more than a service.
We are more than problem solvers.
We use design thinking. Traditionalism is not allowed.
We are not just graphic designers.
We are advocates and influencers.
We are proactive and responsible for our own creativity.
We are always looking for ideas. We are inspired by life because life is art.
We know the value of what we make and we refuse to sell out.
We are brilliant at what we do, but we are not defined by what we do.
We understand that our vocation is bigger than our occupation.
We are on earth to do more than earn a paycheck.
We are committed to grown. We do not tolerate stagnancy because it’s the first sign of death.
We recognize that to be prolific, involves intentionality, choice and dicipline.

These are just a few of the ways that I was inspired at the In-HOW-se Design Conference in Denver, Colorado, put on by HOW Magazine. The conference is a lineup of speakers put together to inspire in-house designers and managers across the nation.

Interested in hearing more advice from the three-day conference?

Don’t be afraid of risk. Ask ‘why not?’
Don’t cover up. Be accountable.
When you miss the mark, make actionable steps to resolve.
Apply pride of ownership, craftsmanship, and professionalism.
Surround yourself with great people.
Cause action to take place. But don’t force it.
Be courageous. Always ask ‘what if’ and then apply progress.
Work for your team—not the other way around.

Recommend books:
“Designful Thinking”
“Orbiting the Giant Hairball”
“The War of Art”

Four final things that made me want to hear more next year (Chicago, June, 2011):

1.) Place – You will spend most of your life at work. Let’s get it right. What inspires you? What turns you on? We are in the inspiration business. Be the change you want to see at work.

2.) People—Your commitment to each person should outlast the job. Start on day one.

3.) Process—Sharing process builds credibility. Is the value of each role understood by your boss? Can you visually show him/her what/how you do your job?

4.) Purpose—The revolution begins with you. The better you are, the better your work, the better the company, the better the world.

“Opportunities multiply as they are seized.” --Sun Tzu