The uncomfortable truth?

Creating exceptional designs is only half our job.

The other half is navigating workplace complexity, leveraging social dynamics, and building relationships that transform designs into shipped products.

The most successful designers I know aren’t just masters of their craft — they’re masters of human connection, communication, and strategic influence.

From designer to design leader

We endlessly discuss Figma techniques and design systems, but rarely address what truly elevates careers from senior designer to design leader: the art of influence, trust-building, and navigating organizational complexity.

A flawlessly executed design that never ships has zero impact. It generates no revenue, improves no user experiences, and creates no business value.

This mirrors the creator economy, where raw talent without marketing savvy rarely finds its audience.

Bruno Torres Boeger explains how accepting and learning to deal with politics can propel you forward in your achievements, but ignoring it can stall your career.

The truth about career advancement

As you progress, you’ll discover your work transcends visual elements. Success is measured by your ability to align business objectives with user needs, foster collaboration, and build momentum within teams.

Put simply: Good design = good business.

If you’re looking to multiply your impact, develop your emotional intelligence, learn to read organizational dynamics, and proactively build strategic relationships. These “soft skills” will distinguish you as a leader capable of guiding not just design execution but strategic direction.