The interview project with Gerilyn Hisiger was an eye-opening experience, offering valuable insights into the life and work of a creative director. Through this process, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in creative leadership, as well as practical advice on navigating the design industry.

The interview delved into the multifaceted nature of Gerilyn’s role, highlighting her responsibilities in design strategy, team management, and bridging the gap between creative and non-creative stakeholders. Her emphasis on collaboration and adaptability resonated deeply with me, as these qualities are crucial in both creative and professional contexts. I was particularly inspired by her approach to balancing creative integrity with client needs, often employing techniques like the “soft no” to maintain constructive partnerships.

One of the most valuable takeaways was her perspective on time management and prioritization. She candidly discussed the challenges of working in-house, where limited time and resources often necessitate tough decisions about which projects to pursue. This reinforced the importance of flexibility and self-advocacy in maintaining both productivity and creative fulfillment.

Additionally, Gerilyn’s insights into the evolving tools of the trade, particularly her use of Figma for collaboration and efficiency, were both practical and encouraging. Her description of leveraging digital platforms to streamline workflows and foster international teamwork underscored the importance of staying adaptable to technological advancements in the field.

On a personal level, this project allowed me to refine my interviewing and communication skills. Preparing thoughtful questions and actively engaging with Gerilyn enabled me to draw out meaningful insights while building confidence in professional interactions.

This project reinforced my aspirations to blend creativity and strategy in my career. By learning from an experienced professional, I now have a clearer understanding of the skills and mindset needed to thrive in this industry. Gerilyn’s advice on valuing my work, nurturing my network, and maintaining authenticity has left a lasting impression, further fueling my passion for design and content creation.