A common problem we have all faced, at some point in time, as designers – how do you get executives to back you and your work in the right way – how to you develop strong influence? I’ve been a design leader for about 15 years and an executive for about 10. Over this time, I’ve learned a lot – that the nice way to say I’ve got a lot of scars on my back from some brutal experiences. I’m going to 3 things execs won’t tell you – some painfully learned – as well as solutions I’ve found to be effective.