Feeling Powerless as a Creative? You're Not Alone

If you've been wondering "as a creative, how do I deal with marketing managers dictating to me what to do?", you're definitely not the only one feeling this frustration. It's a question that touches on power dynamics, creative ownership, and the sometimes tricky relationship between different departments in our industry.

The shift you're noticing is real. Many creatives feel like they've lost their seat at the decision-making table, watching as marketing managers take the lead on projects that were once driven by design and creative thinking. It can feel disheartening, especially when you know you have the skills and vision to make projects truly shine.

This question was answered by Simon Lee, Chief Creative Officer and joint owner of The Hallway, with over a decade of experience building one of Australia's leading independent agencies, and Ash King, a psychologist, writer/designer and cyberpsychology researcher at the University of Sydney, who specialises in helping creatives navigate workplace challenges. Andy Wright served as host, founder of Never Not Creative and CEO of Streamtime.

Understanding the Root of the Problem

Simon acknowledges this is "a big question" and admits he can't fully explain why this shift has happened in the industry. What he can offer, though, is practical wisdom on how to navigate it.

The key insight here is that fighting fire with fire rarely works. As Simon puts it: "It can be very very tempting to really butt up against it, in a sort of I suppose to fight it fight the power... I've certainly had that kind of said well I have behaved like that at times during my career it's been really really reactionary and just kind of trying to wrestle it away and you know what sometimes that can work but it's horrible for everyone concerned."

The Collaborative Approach That Actually Works

Instead of going head-to-head with marketing managers, Simon suggests a more strategic approach: "I think it's more about actually understanding where the other party is coming from really understanding what their what you know what are they kpi on what are their objectives where are they trying to get to."

This isn't about rolling over or accepting poor creative decisions. It's about positioning yourself as the solution to their problems. Simon explains: "The reality is these marketing managers that you're talking about if they are coming up with pretty banal kind of you know nothing ideas well that's not actually going to achieve the kpis for that campaign... you have those ideas you have the magic that can help them do what they need to do."

The trick is helping them see that your creative expertise isn't a threat to their authority, but rather the key to their success.

Creating Space for Creative Input

Ash brings a psychological perspective to this challenge, focusing on the concept of "leading up" and the importance of psychological safety in the workplace. She notes: "When there's a culture in place where there's expectations around you know how you're supposed to act you know with your managers what they expect from you... psychological safety I think is going to keep coming back because it's something that is not just around mental health issues it's actually about creativity around voicing new ideas."

This means that marketing managers also have a responsibility to create environments where creative input is welcomed. As Ash explains: "If someone's coming to the table as the manager and the marketing manager and like here's the idea they also have a responsibility to create a space where someone can say that you know like I hear you and um you know that idea maybe we could but maybe we could also introduce you know a few different other approaches."

Building Your Influence Through Understanding

The path forward isn't about wrestling control away from marketing managers, but about demonstrating your value in terms they understand. When you can show how your creative solutions will help them hit their targets, you're more likely to be heard and respected.

Start by asking questions about their goals, constraints, and success metrics. Then frame your creative suggestions in terms of how they'll achieve those objectives. This collaborative approach, as Simon suggests, is far more effective than a "combative" one.

Finding Support Through NNC Circles

If you're struggling with workplace dynamics like these, you don't have to navigate them alone. Never Not Creative Circles offer peer support groups specifically for creatives facing industry challenges. These monthly sessions provide a safe, confidential space to share experiences and learn practical strategies from others who understand exactly what you're going through. Sometimes just knowing you're not the only one dealing with difficult workplace relationships can make all the difference.

When Professional Support Might Help

If workplace tensions are significantly affecting your wellbeing or making you consider leaving the industry entirely, it might be worth speaking to a professional. Persistent workplace stress can impact both your mental health and career satisfaction. Find professional support resources that can help you develop coping strategies and maintain your wellbeing while navigating challenging work relationships.

Know Your Rights and Options

Sometimes workplace dynamics cross the line from frustrating to genuinely problematic. If you're experiencing bullying, harassment, or other serious workplace issues, the Never Not Creative Support Line offers free initial legal advice specifically for people in the creative industry. Understanding your rights can help you feel more confident in addressing workplace challenges.

You Have More Power Than You Think

Remember, your creative skills and vision are valuable assets. While the industry dynamics may have shifted, your ability to solve problems creatively and deliver results that matter is still very much needed. The key is finding ways to demonstrate that value in language that resonates with decision-makers.

You're not powerless in this situation. By understanding what drives marketing managers and positioning your creativity as the solution to their challenges, you can start to rebuild your influence and get back to doing the creative work you love.