See how they run
Top execs on lessons learned and how to inspire creativity
Fast Company asked some top executives at its innovation festival about what they look for in job candidates, how they spark creativity and for the most important lessons they’ve learned in their careers.
Hiring the right people
“I look for someone with something to prove — to your old boss, your dad, your third-grade teacher, yourself. I don’t care where it comes from: You need that hustle.” — Emily Weiss, founder and CEO, Glossier
“I ask, ‘Think of your worst day — what happened?’ You learn about people’s pet peeves, about what environment won’t work for them. Sometimes they disqualify themselves without realizing it, because they reveal they don’t really want the job.” — Tom Ogletree, director of social impact, General Assembly
“’Give me an example of when you failed, and another example of when you failed, and a third example of when you failed.’ Ninety-nine point nine percent of people are out of their stock answers at that point, and they have to go beyond the script.” — Will Dean, CEO, Tough Mudder
“Social intelligence is as important as a professional CV. How do you integrate yourself into a group without losing yourself?” — Martin Gran, managing director, Snøhetta
Sparking creativity
“Present your ideas, then ask your team: ‘What do you think? Is there a better way?’ Don’t tell everyone what to do — lead by questioning. It’s much more productive (when) everyone’s visions of the project are adapting at once.” —Dror Benshetrit, founder, Studio Dror
“Share information. We make friends with people we admire, including those you might consider competitors, like Charity: Water, Kiva and Global Giving. We get on a call with them and exchange experiences.” — Charles Best, CEO, DonorsChoose.org
“We put people on projects where they bring their unique worldview. Years ago, the guy who ran Subaru for us hated cars, so he had to fall in love with them (to do the job). That point of view cuts through. It sounds different.” — Karl Lieberman, executive creative director, Wieden+Kennedy
“Sometimes you just need to throw everything out the window and rebuild it right on the spot. Think big, no limits. Then work from there.” — Vee Bravo, filmmaker, Tribeca Film Institute
Lessons learned
“Leadership comes in many forms. Figure out how your quietness strengthens your leadership style.” — Elaine Mau, senior product designer, Allstate “Stay focused and don’t try to win a popularity contest.” — Ruma Samdani, director of strategic initiatives and innovation, AARP
“My first boss told me to look for ways that all parties can win and try never to leave an exchange where someone feels taken advantage of or devalued.” — Amy Fox, chief brand officer, Box Boulevard “Learn to follow first.” — Sapar Karyagdyyev, managing director, Gamingtec
“Sometimes you just need to let people discover the next steps by themselves. The only thing you can do is nudge.”
— Juliana Proserpio, cofounder and principal, Echos Innovation Lab
“My Southern dad always said to ‘get my lessons.’ That was his way of saying to obtain information so you’re equipped to succeed.” — Tameka Mullins, director of social media and marketing, Lyric Fire Social Media Services
“Seek advice at all ages. My 9-year-old is brutally honest, and over-60-year-olds have a wealth of knowledge and wisdom.” — Kate Burgess, president and CEO, Elevate97 “Keep good people. The rest will fall into place.” — Liz Carlton, director of marketing and events, NoMa BID
“My father said that leaders do not look for action. Action will always find the leader.” — César Domínguez Márquez, fellow, Global Health Corps
“You have to have big shoulders. You have to take responsibility for your decisions and the actions of your team.” — Michael Voss, marketing and business development strategist
“Do not expect people to be the best they are. Expect them to be the best they can become.” — Janet Nelson, business school professor, University of Southern Maine
“Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the emir of Dubai, says that the word ‘impossible’ is not in a leader’s dictionary. No matter how big the challenges, strong faith, determination and resolve will overcome them.” —Ruba Al Hassan, senior adviser, United Arab Emirates Embassy, Washington, D.C.
“Working in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, I learned from rape survivors to be kind to yourself. When you are well and take care of yourself, you are better able to help (others).” — Judithe Registre, founder and principal, Inclusivus