INSIGHTS & MUSINGS

FROM THE BRAIN OF ALISON GRETZ

Behind the Scenes: My Tech Stack

One year in to starting this independent business, and I have learned so much! One of the most frequent questions I get asked about is my tech stack. This is primarily software, but I’m including a full view of what I believe has been a part of my building of my business this past year.…
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Lessons in Solopreneurship (part 1)

Looking to become a solopreneur but overwhelmed? Hear from an experienced solopreneur on lessons learned. Part one covers finding supportive communities, preparing for mindset shifts, experimenting in public, and learning diverse skills like writing, marketing, and sales. Gain practical tips from this insightful read.
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Insights into First-Time Leadership

Are you considering a management role in the design industry? The journey is filled with personal growth and skill enhancement, but it’s likely no one taught you how to manage other humans.
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Leadership Philosophies for Team Harmony and Growth

Design leadership is more than overseeing projects. It includes guiding teams, nurturing growth, and promoting open communication. At Design by Design, we offer effective leadership training and coaching to empower design managers. Learn how our philosophy can help resolve team conflicts, embrace Radical Candor, and foster dialogue for creative and harmonious environments. Explore our resources…
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How modern mentorship “should” create equity & self-efficacy

Discover how modern mentorship can enhance equity and boost self-efficacy. Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth, offering guidance in decision-making, negotiating job offers, and exploring opportunities. However, inherent power dynamics can create inequalities. This article offers insights into creating equitable mentorship by setting intentions, acknowledging diversity, focusing on mentee goals, and avoiding judgment.…
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work needs to suck less: the surgeon general’s call to action

There is soooooo much out there regarding workplace fatigue, “quiet-quitting” and “lazy girl jobs” right now, so I won’t use your time describing the state of workplace wellbeing. Let’s walk into this article with a shared belief that workplace wellbeing is at a serious low, which is having societal level health impacts. Enough so, that…
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Leader Convos: Healthy Work Boundaries

As leaders, it’s crucial to ensure our team members are maintaining healthy boundaries between their work and personal lives. Striking the right balance can boost productivity, enhance job satisfaction, and prevent burnout. In a previous article on our website, we discussed the importance of work-life balance. But how often do we, as leaders, initiate conversations…
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Radical candor for leadership development and coaching

Radical candor for leadership development and coaching Relatively early in my leadership career, I discovered an earlier version of Kim Scott’s talk on delivering feedback to employees using Radical Candor. As a leader, and now a leadership development coach, I have consistently strived to leverage this framework and way of working teaching it to multiple…
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Reflections & Hope For The Future of Design

From democratization of graphic design to product and UX convergence, many factors will shape our industry. Understanding our craft and business context is crucial. Staying adaptable and innovative drives change and strengthens us all.
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Are Managers complicit in employee burnout?

Are you heading towards burnout at work? Or suspect one of your team members is struggling? In this thought-provoking article, seasoned manager Alison Gretz explores a root cause of burnout and provides practical tips for leaders.
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