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Forbes
31-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How To Succeed As A Creative Director In 2025: Must-Have Skills
The role of a creative director today involves far more than excellent marketing skills such as crafting compelling visuals or composing witty copy. Finding success as a CD now demands a diverse skill set that spans technology, emotional intelligence, business savvy and cultural literacy. As marketing continues to intersect with data, AI, ethics and global culture, the most effective agency leaders are those who adapt quickly while remaining grounded in human insight. Here, 20 members of Forbes Agency Council outline essential skills modern creative directors need to master to stay relevant, respected, results-driven and thriving in 2025 and beyond. 1. Master The Art Of Strategic Communication Enhanced communication skills are a must for the modern creative director. It's no longer good enough to just inspire designers and writers around a creative vision; now, the creative director needs to deeply listen, decipher and lead conversations that align business executives, marketing stakeholders, agency teams and data professionals. And, it's only going to continue in this direction. - Grant Copeland, WORX 2. Leverage Emerging Technologies Technological proficiency is a skill that all creative directors should master. At least have a deep understanding of emerging tech—especially AI, as it's changing the whole industry. Knowing how to leverage AI and other tech to enhance creativity and come up with campaigns at scale is going to be one big criterion that all clients will look for when working with creative directors or agencies. - Saif Jarad, CHAIN REACTION 3. Consistently Teach Teams To Adapt In 2025, creative directors must blend human creativity with AI-powered efficiency, speed and data. It's not just about adapting personally—it's about leading teams through constant change and teaching them to embrace new tools, stay curious and see AI as a creative partner, not a threat. Directors must teach their teams to fish again—most won't do it on their own. - Patrick Dillon, WISE Digital Partners Forbes Agency Council is an invitation-only community for executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative and advertising agencies. Do I qualify? 4. Cultivate Curiosity As A Leadership Trait A critical soft skill for creative directors is curiosity—not just as a personal trait, but as a leadership mindset. With shifts in platforms, tools and audience behavior, they are constantly navigating unknowns, and rarely with a clear road map. When a leader is genuinely curious, it creates space for others to experiment, ask questions and grow, ultimately leading to stronger creative outcomes. - Jenni Smith, EGR International 5. Be A Mentor To The Next Generation We need creativity, emotion and a human touch more than ever in advertising today, so there is such a need for mentors to impart the classic tenets of great advertising. Be a mentor to those coming up the ranks. The ad industry will be much better off because of it. - Ellis Verdi, DeVito/Verdi 6. Develop Systems Thinking Creative directors should develop their systems-thinking abilities. By understanding how parts of a system interact, they can see the big picture across teams, timelines and outcomes. For example, a design delay could impact social media campaign timing and planning across departments. This ability to zoom in and out of systems can help with campaign design, aligned messaging and a cohesive brand. - Dennis Consorte, Consorte Marketing 7. Hone Your Risk Radar In 2025, a creative director needs risk radar. Not everything is a crisis, but you'd better know what could turn into one. The best creative in the world won't matter if it blows up your client's reputation. You need taste, timing and the ability to read the room fast. - Yousif Yalda, Full Stack Clarity 8. Deepen Emotional Intelligence My team and I firmly believe that a critical non-marketing skill for a creative director in 2025 is deeply developed emotional intelligence. This allows for genuine connection—not just with their creative teams, but also with the target audience. This nuanced understanding is essential for crafting impactful and resonant campaigns that cut through the noise and leave a lasting impression. - Frank Rojas, Miami SEM 9. Sharpen Multicultural Intelligence Multicultural intelligence is a key skill for creative directors today. With social media fragmenting audiences across platforms, truly understanding diverse cultural nuances will set you apart. This skill helps one create authentic campaigns that truly connect, build trust and avoid missteps in a landscape shaped by political polarization, AI content and short attention spans. - Fernando Beltran, Identika LLC 10. Practice True Empathy The ability to put yourself in your customer's shoes is key to truly understanding what problem they're trying to solve and what they feel when choosing and using your product—to experience your brand as they do. That level of human understanding is where breakthrough creative and innovative experiences come from. - Stratton Cherouny, The Office of Experience 11. Be Systems-Native, Not Just Stylish The best creative directors in 2025 aren't just stylish, they're systems-native. Taste is table stakes. What matters now is whether an idea can survive being translated across formats, teams and AI summarizers. Can it live in a deck, on TikTok, in a press quote and as a ChatGPT response? If not, it is not an idea, it is an indulgence. - Kyle Arteaga, The Bulleit Group 12. Build Cultural Intelligence Across Borders In 2025, cultural intelligence is essential for creative directors. As brands operate globally, understanding how ideas resonate across cultures and communities is key. It's not just about avoiding missteps—it's about creating work that connects meaningfully and respectfully with diverse audiences in an interconnected world. - Sarah Tourville, Media Frenzy Global 13. Tell System-Smart Stories As a title I've carried for over 25 years, 'Creative Director' now means more than having visual acuity—it's also about systems thinking, connecting ideas across user experience, tech, operations and culture. That awareness turns good design into smart, scalable brand experiences. Today, creative direction isn't style—it's system-smart storytelling. - Goran Paun, ArtVersion 14. Speak The Language Of Business In 2025, a creative director needs sharp business acumen. It's not just about big ideas. It's about tying those ideas to revenue, retention and reputation. If you can't speak the language of growth or sit at the table with product, sales and operations, you're just decorating. Creative that doesn't drive measurable impact is more noise in a boardroom that's already full of it. - Lars Voedisch, PRecious Communications 15. Use Discernment To Filter The Noise For me, the most critical non-marketing skill a creative director needs in 2025 is discernment. In a world where everyone has access to the same tools and tech, the real edge comes from knowing what not to chase. It's the ability to filter the noise, spot what's meaningful and lead teams toward ideas that are not just clever, but also clear and impactful. Without discernment, creativity becomes chaos. - Don Dodds, M16 Marketing 16. Blend Critical Thinking With Cultural Insight In 2025, critical thinking and cultural understanding are essential. A creative director must decode social shifts and anticipate audience reactions. This awareness ensures campaigns resonate authentically and avoid missteps—blending intuition with insight to lead brands in a rapidly evolving landscape. - Christy Saia-Owenby, MOXY Company 17. Apply An Ethical Compass To Your Work Brand storytelling intersects with AI, privacy and social issues, making it critical for creative directors to have a strong ethical compass. By cultivating and exercising ethical judgment at every turn—from concept to final cut—they can ensure their creative work not only dazzles and inspires, but also builds trust. This kind of integrity can become a competitive advantage. - Paula Chiocchi, Outward Media, Inc. 18. Embrace Accountability And Budget Discipline Accountability is a key skill to have in 2025. Creative directors need to realize that they have to work within a budget and be accountable for the ROI—and that big ideas sometimes require big budgets. So far, the theme of 2025 seems to be uncertainty, so brands are holding their purse strings tighter than ever and want every dollar invested in a campaign to be accounted for. - Adrian Falk, Believe Advertising & PR 19. Build Hands-On AI Fluency A strong grasp of AI and its practical applications will be essential for creative directors in 2025. Rather than relying exclusively on team members for data insights and execution, understanding how to effectively use AI tools will enable creative directors to significantly enhance their team's efficiency and stay ahead of competitors. - Jordan Edelson, Appetizer Mobile LLC 20. Maintain Passion For What Comes Next I've been a creative director for over 35 years, and what keeps me relevant is curiosity and a passion to see what's next. There are many fads that come and go, but staying on the bleeding edge of the newest trends, tools and tech matters most. AI has empowered creatives like no other human creation. We have a new tool that can generate outcomes that were impossible prior to its evolution. - Terry Zelen, Zelen Communications
Daily Mirror
22-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Gardening deal slashes price of cordless lawnmower and strimmer duo by £50
Gardeners can currently get their hands on a two-pack, featuring a cordless lawnmower and matching strimmer, for a whopping £50 less thanks to this limited-time deal Green-thumbed shoppers looking to whip their gardens into shape this summer should rush over to Amazon, where this limited-time offer has slashed the price of a lawnmower and strimmer duo by a mega £50. The Worx WG927E 40V Cordless Lawnmower and Trimmer Twin Pack features a WG779E 34cm 40V Cordless Lawnmower and a WG157E.9 20V Cordless Grass Trimmer, along with 2 batteries and a dual-port charger. Whether you need to mow your lawn, trim the edges, or reach difficult spots, this kit has you covered. Plus, the 2x2.0 Ah PowerShare batteries are interchangeable, offering convenience and reducing the need for multiple different batteries or long breaks to charge your equipment. Set to enhance your lawn maintenance, this comprehensive kit from Worx offers an environmentally-friendly and cost-efficient solution to keeping your garden in check. The WORX WG779E Cordless lawnmower is not only powerful but also cost-efficient and kinder to the environment, as it boasts advanced technology and power management, which reduces energy consumption, making it a more sustainable choice for lawn maintenance. The lawnmower and strimmer 's cordless design ensures ease and convenience. No more spending on fuel or dealing with cumbersome cords that get in the way. The dual charger included in this combo kit ensures that your tools are always ready for action, able to tackle any job hassle-free. Equipped with a powerful electronically-controlled motor that delivers the torque as needed, ensuring a clean cut every time. This lawnmower comes equipped with six different levels of cutting height adjustments, allowing you to customise the cut to suit your preferences and needs. The addition of the WG157E.9 grass trimmer in this combo kit makes it a comprehensive solution for all your lawn maintenance tasks, whether you're tackling the lawn, borders, overgrown areas or shrubs. One thrilled shopper who bought this two-pack raves: "This mower is much more solid than I expected and was easy to assemble despite poor instructions. It is light enough to be carried by the handles (easier without batteries in). I have been very pleased with its quality of cut and ability to suck up the cuttings - better than I had with previous petrol and mains mowers. Its use has massively reduced the time to cut our lawns and the finish is excellent. One charge was more than enough to complete everything. I am delighted with this choice." More adoration comes from this buyer who beams: " This lawnmower has changed my life! WAY better than any of the mowers I've had previously. The grass was long the first time I used it, but the two 4AH batteries did the job and lasted long enough to tackle my relatively small "jungles" Since then I've mowed more regularly and I'm getting four full cuts of both lawns out of a single charge, and in much less time than with previous equipment. It's relatively quiet, easy to adjust, light enough to lift one-handed and cuts well." Though this customer does share their one disappointment, noting: "Great kit. The batteries don't last super long, but I have an adapter to use bigger batteries anyway. It's lightweight and easy to store. I would recommend it for any first-time home buyer. The batteries that come with, even though they don't have a big capacity, charge really quickly." You can pick up this duo on Amazon for the reduced price of £199.99 while this deal lasts. Or, head over to Argos where it's discounted to £220. If you don't mind paying full price, the same twin pack is available at B&Q for £249.99.
Digital Trends
04-06-2025
- Business
- Digital Trends
Best deals on Father's Day gifts: 20 tech deals for Dad
Father's Day is coming up, which means time is running out for those who haven't bought a gift for their dad. If you need help in choosing what to get, we've rounded up 20 tech deals you'll want to consider, ranging from affordable gadgets to premium devices. You're going to have to decide quickly though, for two reasons: These discounts may expire at any moment, and you'll want to receive them in time for Father's Day! JBL Clip 5 portable Bluetooth speaker — $50 $80 38% off If your dad loves listening to his favorite tracks while fishing, BBQing or camping, he can bring his music anywhere with the JBL Clip 5. This portable Bluetooth speaker, which is $30 off after a 38% discount, will last up to 12 hours from a full charge, and it's both waterproof and dustproof. It even comes with a redesigned carabiner so that you can attach it to various places. WORX 4V Screwdriver — $35 $50 30% off The WORX 4V Screwdriver, which is $15 off after a 30% discount, will replace a set of manual screwdrivers by itself. With a no-load speed of 300 rpm, this automatic screwdriver will get the job done quickly. It can run for 45 minutes from a full charge, it features dual LED lights to illuminate dark areas, and it comes with 12 bits for different screw shapes and sizes. JBL Vibe Beam wireless earbuds — $40 $50 25% off The JBL Vibe Beam are affordable wireless earbuds that are priced even lower right now after a 25% discount, for savings of $10. They offer the brand's trademark high-quality audio and deep bass, while you enjoy a comfortable fit with water and dust resistance. The wireless earbuds can last up to 8 hours on a single charge, and up to 32 hours with their charging case. The Criterion Channel — Free Trial The Criterion Channel, which offers a fantastic library of beloved classics, underrated indie movies, and must-see contemporary films, usually costs $11 per month or $100 per year. If you're not sure that your dad will love the streaming service, you can sign him up for a free seven-day trial before committing to the monthly or yearly cost. KitchekShop Coffee Mug Warmer — $25 $40 38% off If your dad can't get through his morning without a hot cup of coffee, he'll be able to keep his mug warm with the KitchekShop Coffee Mug Warmer, which is on sale at 38% off for a $15 discount. The device offers four temperature settings, as well as an auto shut-off function for your peace of mind. PlayStation DualSense Edge wireless controller — $169 $200 15% off If your dad loves his PlayStation 5, you may want to get him the PlayStation DualSense Edge. The wireless controller is a definite upgrade to the DualSense that comes with the console, as it offers mappable back buttons, replaceable stick modules and caps, and versatile trigger locks. It's on sale with a $31 discount, or 15% off. Beats Studio Pro wireless headphones — $250 $350 29% off Beats is one of the most popular brands in the audio industry, so you wouldn't want to miss this chance to buy the Beats Studio Pro at 29% off for savings of $100. The wireless headphones offer active noise cancellation, head-tracked spatial audio, a comfortable and secure fit, and a battery that can last up to 40 hours with ANC deactivated. Thermacell E90 rechargeable mosquito repeller — $42 $50 15% off The Thermacell E90 rechargeable mosquito repeller provides protection against mosquitoes up to 20 feet away, and it works fast — it only needs 15 minutes from when you turn it on. Its battery works for 9 hours on a full charge, and it's perfect safe for both people and pets. It's on sale at 15% off, for an $8 discount. Amazon Echo Spot smart alarm clock — $65 $80 19% off The 2024 version of the Amazon Echo Spot features a customizable display for showing information such as time, weather, and song titles. Of course, as part of the Amazon Echo line of devices, it also supports voice commands through Amazon's Alexa, for the ability to control your other smart home devices. It's $15 off right now, for a 19% discount. Apple AirTag (4-Pack) — $75 $99 24% off If your dad is always misplacing his things, the Apple AirTag could be the solution. This Bluetooth tracker easily pairs with your iPhone or iPad, and you can have it play a sound when you're looking for the item that it's attached to. It also uses the massive network of Apple's Find My app when the item is further away. The 4-pack is 24% off right now, for a $24 discount. Hawkeye FishPod 5X Bluetooth fish finder — $79 $93 15% off For dads who love fishing, the Hawkeye FishPod 5X Bluetooth fish finder could be a great gift, especially with this 15% discount that translates to $14 in savings. The device uses sonar to pinpoint the size and depth of fish in the water while tuning out debris and false echoes. You'll see the information on its companion app on your smartphone. Roku Ultra 2024 streaming device — $80 $100 20% off The 2024 release of the Roku Ultra brings a swath of updates to the streaming device, including a faster processor, better wireless networking, and an improved remote control. It supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR10+, Dolby Vision for picture, and Dolby Atmos for sound, for a streaming experience that's tough to beat. GoPro Hero11 Black Mini — $140 $250 44% off The GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is the smaller version of the GoPro Hero 11 Black, eschewing the front and read screen to make the action camera more compact. It's controlled entirely using its power and record buttons, and by using voice commands, but it's still capable of recording high-performance video in the most extreme of situations. A 44% discount nearly halves its price with a $110 discount. Rexing V1P Flex X4 4K Wi-Fi dual dash cam — $150 $180 17% off Every car should have a dash cam, and the Rexing V1P Flex X4 4K Wi-Fi dual dash cam is an excellent choice after the 17% discount that slashes its price by $30. You'll get 4K video with the front camera and 1080p video with the rear camera, with wide 170-degree views, and you'll be able to transfer the footage to your smartphone though the Rexing Connect app. Nintendo Switch OLED (refurbished) — $260 $350 26% off The Nintendo Switch 2 is here, but the Nintendo Switch OLED is still a worthwhile purchase for gamer dads. This is a refurbished device that's certified by Geek Squad, which means it's been tested to be working properly. You can play the best Nintendo Switch games on this console, and it's down by $90 after a 26% discount. Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones — $300 $400 25% off The Sony WH-1000XM5 reign supreme in our list of the best headphones, and their 25% discount for savings of $100 make them one of the top gifts that you can get for your dad. The wireless headphones provide amazing noise canceling, fantastic sound, a comfortable fit, and a battery that can last up to 30 hours from a full charge. Sonos Ace wireless headphones — $329 $449 27% off The Sonos Ace wireless headphones are 27% off for a $120 discount, and they're a steal for this price. Their features include active noise cancellation, a battery that can last up to 30 hours on a single charge with ANC activated, and spatial audio. The headphones can also receive Dolby Atmos spatial audio directly from a Sonos soundbar. Garmin Instinct 3 smartwatch (45mm, AMOLED) — $400 $450 11% off The Garmin Instinct 3 is a rugged smartwatch with a full-color AMOLED display, and a battery that can last up to 24 days on a single charge. The wearable device is capable of 24/7 health monitoring across a comprehensive range of metrics, so your dad can keep an eye on his wellness. An 11% discount translates to $50 in savings for the smartwatch. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (128GB) — $650 $800 19% off If your dad wants a new tablet, you can't go wrong with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9. The device comes with an 11-inch touchscreen, a 12MP front camera, a 13MP rear camera, and storage of 128GB that may be expanded up to 1TB by a microSD card. The tablet, which also supports Galaxy AI, is 19% less right now for a $150 discount. Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar — $899 $999 10% off Give your dad the gift of cinematic audio in your living room with the Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar, which is on sale with a 10% discount for $100 in savings. It's our pick as the best expandable Dolby Atmos soundbar in our list of the best soundbars, as you'll enjoy clear dialogue, powerful bass, and effortless setup.
