Canva Chief Evangelist Guy Kawasaki says: Don’t make a mission statement, make a mantra.
Nov 6, 2024
auto_awesome
Guy Kawasaki, Chief Evangelist at Canva and former Apple marketer, shares insights from his remarkable career. He discusses the concept of using mantras instead of lengthy mission statements for clearer communication. Kawasaki also emphasizes the significance of a growth mindset, reflecting on his passion for taking up sports like hockey and surfing later in life. He draws parallels between sports and effective leadership, advocating for a focus on simplicity, teamwork, and genuine product belief to inspire success.
Guy Kawasaki underscores the value of simple mantras over complex mission statements to enhance organizational clarity and focus.
The discussion highlights how sports foster leadership qualities like teamwork and accountability, crucial for successful executive performance.
Deep dives
The Influence of Sports on Leadership
Sports have been a foundational element in shaping successful leadership qualities among top executives. Many leaders find that the lessons learned from playing sports—such as teamwork, perseverance, and accountability—translate effectively into their business roles. For instance, the camaraderie built in team sports fosters a sense of unity, with executives often crediting their athletic backgrounds for their collaborative leadership styles. This connection suggests that engaging in sports not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens organizational dynamics.
Insights from Steve Jobs
Working closely with Steve Jobs during the early days at Apple provided unique insights into his demanding leadership style. Jobs was renowned for his pursuit of perfection and maintained high standards, creating an environment where mediocrity was not tolerated. A notable experience was when he candidly sought feedback about a product and remained open to honest criticism, showcasing his commitment to the company’s mission rather than individual egos. This experience underlines the importance of transparency and alignment with core values in fostering a productive work culture.
The Importance of a Customer-Centric Approach
A critical discussion highlighted the need for businesses to adopt a customer-centric approach rather than focusing solely on their own preferences. The Kodak case serves as a cautionary tale; despite inventing digital cameras, the company's failure to embrace this innovation stemmed from an internal focus on film sales rather than understanding customer needs. By prioritizing customer experiences and desires, businesses can adapt and thrive in changing markets. This mentality can lead to greater relevancy and success, even in competitive industries.
Mantras Over Mission Statements
The podcast emphasizes the power of simple mantras over lengthy mission statements for guiding corporate ethos. Mantras, being brief and memorable phrases, encapsulate core values while allowing for easier communication and understanding among team members. For example, the mantra 'democratize design' effectively captures Canva's mission succinctly, contrasting sharply with convoluted mission statements that often lack impact. This distinction reinforces the idea that clarity in purpose can significantly enhance organizational focus and employee engagement.
Ep. 205: Taking up hockey at 44 and surfing at 60, this exec embodies a lifelong drive for new challenges—a trait shaped during his years under Steve Jobs at Apple. As one of Apple’s original team members, he played a pivotal role in marketing the groundbreaking Macintosh.
As Chief Evangelist at Apple and now at Canva, Guy has devoted his career to championing products that truly enhance people’s lives!
Our BONUS RESOURCE for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights.
Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: https://books.forbes.com/don/
Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers these live and virtual presentations built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness.
Special thanks to Ana Anzolin and Samantha Clark for making this episode possible.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode