What are the best ways to stay up-to-date with creative strategy trends?

1 Read industry blogs and newsletters

One of the easiest and most accessible ways to stay up-to-date with creative strategy trends is to read industry blogs and newsletters that cover topics such as advertising, design, marketing, branding, storytelling, and innovation. These sources can provide you with valuable insights, case studies, tips, and inspiration from experts and practitioners in the field. You can subscribe to newsletters that deliver curated content to your inbox, or follow blogs that update regularly on their websites or social media platforms. Some examples of blogs and newsletters you can check out are Creative Review, AdAge, The Drum, Contagious, and PSFK.

2 Listen to podcasts and watch videos

Another way to learn from the voices and experiences of creative strategists is to listen to podcasts and watch videos that feature interviews, discussions, stories, and analysis of the latest trends and issues in the industry. Podcasts and videos can offer you a deeper and more personal perspective on how creative strategy works, what challenges and opportunities it faces, and what skills and tools it requires. You can also listen or watch on the go, making them convenient and flexible sources of information and education. Some examples of podcasts and videos you can tune into are The Strategy Inside Everything, The Futur, The Creative Boom Podcast, 99% Invisible, and TED Talks.

3 Join online communities and forums

Another way to stay connected and informed about creative strategy trends is to join online communities and forums where you can interact with other creative strategists, ask questions, share ideas, get feedback, and discover new resources and opportunities. Online communities and forums can help you expand your network, learn from diverse perspectives, and stay engaged and motivated in your field. You can also participate in challenges, events, and projects that can enhance your skills and portfolio. Some examples of online communities and forums you can join are Creative Strategy Club, Strategy Hacker Slack, Creative Strategy Community Facebook Group, and Reddit's r/advertising.

4 Attend webinars and events

Another way to keep your creative strategy skills updated and relevant is to attend webinars and events that offer you the chance to learn from experts, industry leaders, and peers in the field. Webinars and events can provide you with the latest research, best practices, case studies, and trends in creative strategy, as well as the opportunity to network, collaborate, and exchange ideas with other participants. You can also gain access to exclusive content, tools, and discounts that can benefit your career and projects. Some examples of webinars and events you can attend are Cannes Lions Live, The One Club for Creativity, Creative Mornings, and D&AD Festival.

5 Experiment and practice

Finally, one of the best ways to stay up-to-date with creative strategy trends is to experiment and practice your own creative skills and ideas. By applying what you learn from the sources mentioned above, you can test your assumptions, challenge your limits, and improve your results. You can also explore new platforms, formats, audiences, and problems that can inspire you to think differently and creatively. Experimenting and practicing can help you develop your own style, voice, and vision as a creative strategist, as well as showcase your work and value to potential clients and employers.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?