Hi. More and more at Ideas for Animals, I find myself working directly with CEOs. Or other C-Suite humans. I’m super good at it. See the pic above? That’s an actual shot from a recent Zoom with Chris Mele, CEO of Software Pricing Partners. He’ll vouch for me. Or at least I think he will. There are more too. But my prowess is not the point. So I’ll get to the point. And that’s the point: CEOs love it when you do just that. Get to the point. Which is the point. But here’s more on that point.

As a creative director, sometimes I have to put aside the tendency to organize and control. Because if a CEO (or anyone in the “C-Suite” really) is worth a damn, they tend to do that too. And, well, they’re writing the checks. So when you’re working directly with these types, let’s just say there’s a right time to lead. And a right time to shut the F up. You’re going to know if you’re getting that balance right in a hurry. {Hint: If you keep working with them beyond one engagement, you’re probably not screwing it up too badly.}

And if you’re working with a C-Level, listen to them. That’s a good move for working with anyone, anytime. But with CEOs? They know what they’re talking about. And they’re busy. So pay super close attention. Because in some cases, they might even say more when they’re not talking. I know one CEO in particular who is very much “less is more.” And she’s a badass. But you have to care. Which brings up another general point about this business. Do yourself and everyone else you’re working with a big favor and get better at reading the room. I personally think this is mostly an intangible skill, and in my experience, some people just don’t have the awareness. But you can still try to cultivate it. And if you have it, hone it. I think it starts with listening. Which is why it’s in this paragraph. But once in a while, take a look around the room. Or the virtual room. What’s going on with body language? Pausing helps. Write something on your hand. Do whatever is necessary to remind yourself about this. It’ll pay off.

Oh & one more thing: CEOs manage a helluva lot more than just the branding shizniz. So once they’re done with you, they’re on to the next 99 things, “frying bigger fish” so to speak. Yes, I know that last phrase is not vegan. It’s OK.

Brick & Mortar Work Tip 01: Not sure how to refer to a coworker at the water cooler? Try this: “What type of reproductive organs does your body currently have?” Now buckle up. Cuz all will be revealed. Pronoun preferences included.

I almost ended with something even less professional. But I was moved to change it. Phew.

It came to me that it would feel better to end with something more from the heart than the funny bone. From a place I like to coach “how to reveal.” Because this newsletter is billed as offering “…reflections on the business of creativity,” I’ll share that the more often I can reMind “myself” to work from “The Stillness,” it also informs how I regard projects and those I’m working with, bringing more ease and empathy around the whole thing. Which, you might guess, allows for better work. More efficient work. And more freedom around all of it. Even the sticky bits. The pressures, pivots, frustrations, judgments, all of it. I enjoy considering and coaching this “process,” so if you’re interested, tap the purple button below for more on Stillness Creativity, or just reply to this email. Thank you.