Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tony Lin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Tony thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Alright – so having the idea is one thing, but going from idea to execution is where countless people drop the ball. Can you talk to us about your journey from idea to execution?

I embarked on my creative journey as a motion-oriented designer, drawn to the world of visual storytelling and animation. As my skills evolved in motion graphics and design, I uncovered a deep-seated fascination for the strategic facets of branding and creative direction. This pivotal shift propelled me into leadership roles, allowing me to harmonize design expertise with visionary thinking. In this capacity, I delved into marketing, skillfully weaving strategy into my design thinking. This convergence empowered me to extend my influence beyond design, bridging the gap between creativity and business development. Along this transformative path, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with diverse clients, including industry titans like Amazon, Fister, and Turning AI. Through this journey, I’ve expanded my creative circles and been instrumental in crafting compelling narratives and experiences, all while applying strategic marketing principles to make a lasting impact.

Tony, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am an award-winning emergent storyteller and creative director with over 15 years of experience in both agency and corporate settings. Also a collaborative, open-minded, innovative international leader with deep experience working with digital media to develop creative strategies and collaborate on executions that attract, grow, and monetize audiences across linear, digital, video, and social platforms.

I began my journey in 2005 after graduating from the Art Center College of Design. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work with various clients and organizations. Early in my career, I worked as a personal designer for Usher Raymond and later took on leadership roles as the art director for ESPN and Fox Sports Net. In addition to these roles, I also started my own business, Samsara Workshop, an Asian Mythology-inspired accessories brand. Throughout my career, I have held various positions in the design industry, including art director for C2K Communication, where I worked with clients such as Toyota Prius Prime, Dubai Emmar Group, and Square Enix. I then became the creative director for EZVIZ, a part of the Hikvision company, where I led the global creatives in strategizing hero product launch campaigns and worked to amplify the brand’s voice and ensure overall brand consistency on a global scale.

Most recently, I acted as the creative director for Artema Labs, leading the motion/NFT team in launching the Multiverse with Motorsports network while also serving as the motion designer for Deloitte’s Green Dot Agency. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to lead and inspire teams, as well as my dedication to delivering high-quality work for my clients. I am excited to continue growing and learning in my field, and I am always seeking new opportunities and clients to contribute my skills and expertise.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Managing a team and nurturing high morale while keeping a keen focus on our goals has been a significant part of my leadership journey. To begin, I’ve found that creating an open and collaborative environment is essential. Encouraging open communication, embracing diverse perspectives, and fostering inclusivity within the team not only taps into each member’s unique strengths but also establishes a sense of unity, which greatly bolsters morale.

Moreover, it’s become clear to me that letting my team members understand the ‘why’ behind their tasks rather than just the ‘what,’ is crucial. Transparently explaining the broader purpose and context of their work instills a deeper sense of purpose and dedication, motivating them to give their best efforts.

Lastly, building trust has been central to my approach. Instead of micromanaging, I’ve chosen to empower my team, granting them the autonomy to make decisions and learn from their experiences. Trusting my team members not only encourages a stronger sense of ownership but also cultivates a positive, motivated work environment where individuals feel valued and competent. This trust has played a pivotal role in maintaining high morale and unwavering focus on our collective objectives.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Reflecting on my journey in the design industry, I often find myself wishing for a deeper understanding of the business aspect. Acquiring clients, budgeting, and building the right professional relationships are areas that I recognize as critical for success in this field. In an ever-evolving industry, the ability to navigate the complexities of client acquisition, efficiently manage budgets, and collaborate with the right individuals is essential for not only sustaining a design career but also thriving within it. As I continue to grow and learn, I aspire to bridge this knowledge gap to become a more well-rounded and effective professional in the world of design, combining my creative skills with a keen business acumen.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://generationlush.xeverfree.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeverfree/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xeverfree
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xeverfree/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt6XXLwY8yVvgHouHn5445g