Kenneth Cole: ON How To Creatively Break Into The Career Of Your Choice

Transcript

how do we make what we do worthwhile and purposeful and it's not it's a question i asked 30 years ago 30 plus years ago but it's a question i still ask today the answer is different um and the mechanism to realize it is different still but the questions aren't i believe the world needs a new set of real models people with deep intentions behind the... Read More

Summary

In this video, Kenneth Cole discusses the importance of making our work meaningful and purposeful. He talks about merging different aspects of life, such as work, family, and community, and how it can lead to fulfillment. Kenneth also shares his journey of transitioning from law school to fashion and the importance of being resourceful. He highlights the impact of his AIDS campaign and the need to stay focused on the future. Finally, he emphasizes the significance of curiosity, staying relevant, and learning from everyone around us.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does merging different aspects of life, such as work, family, and community, lead to fulfillment?

Kenneth explains that being successful in any area requires making significant life compromises. When we focus on one aspect, other areas may suffer. By addressing multiple agendas simultaneously, we are more likely to find fulfillment. Kenneth brought social engagement into his business model early on, which led to success in personal, professional, and social engagement.

Q: Why did Kenneth switch from law school to fashion?

Kenneth initially planned to go to law school because he was unsure of what he wanted to do. However, he found himself drawn to the shoe factory his father owned. He loved the creative process of designing shoes and realized that in the fashion business, he could write his own rules. He saw success as breaking boundaries and making distinct products.

Q: How did Kenneth overcome the challenge of not having enough money to start his own business?

Since Kenneth didn't have enough money to start his business, he found a way to be resourceful. He named the company after himself as it was easier to register his own name. He then went to Italy to find shoe factories that needed business and secured credit from them. To showcase his shoes, he came up with a creative idea to park a truck across the street from a trade show and pose as a filmmaker. Through resourcefulness and problem-solving, he successfully sold 40,000 pairs of shoes.

Q: How did Kenneth's AIDS campaign change him and the brand?

In 1985, Kenneth recognized the lack of awareness and conversation around HIV/AIDS due to the stigma attached to it. He saw an opportunity to address this important issue through his brand. By partnering with renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz and featuring top models, he created a campaign that spoke about the importance of discussing HIV/AIDS. This campaign not only changed Kenneth but also transformed the brand, making it more meaningful and impactful.

Q: Has the world evolved in terms of asking important questions about fulfillment and making a meaningful impact?

Kenneth suggests that while the world has changed, the fundamental questions about purpose and fulfillment remain the same. However, he believes that there is a greater focus on social responsibility and making a meaningful impact today. People have more access to information and social platforms, allowing them to connect with audiences and amplify their stories. The challenges and opportunities have shifted, but the need to question and make a difference remains constant.

Q: How does Kenneth stay focused on the future and avoid complacency?

Kenneth believes in staying relevant and earning the right to be considered and chosen every day. He understands that fashion is an industry where people have infinite choices and nobody needs what he sells. He aims to make his products meaningful and connects with customers by attaching a deeper message. He focuses on what lies ahead, continuously adapting and contextualizing his work to stay competitive and make a meaningful impact.

Q: How does Kenneth balance being the boss and taking on responsibilities?

Kenneth shares a personal story about his daughter teaching him a valuable lesson. She questioned why he couldn't help her with her homework despite being the boss. This made him realize that he was prioritizing his work over his daughter. He learned that he had the power to change that and make different choices. He emphasizes that we have the ability to change our circumstances but often attribute it to external forces.

Q: How does Kenneth approach social media and storytelling on platforms like Instagram?

Kenneth takes a personal approach to his social media presence, managing his own account and sharing authentic content. He believes in the power of self-expression and recognizes the privilege of representing ourselves to the world. He aims to be part of people's self-expression through his brand, creating meaningful connections. Kenneth doesn't take himself too seriously but understands the significance of making a positive impact through his work.

Q: How does Kenneth embrace the spirit of curiosity and learning from others?

Kenneth acknowledges the importance of curiosity and learning from everyone and everything around us. He finds inspiration and enlightenment through social media and appreciates the access to diverse perspectives. He shares a story about his daughter teaching him a lesson and emphasizes the need to question, reflect, and be open to learning. Kenneth values the reciprocal exchange of knowledge and believes in continuous growth and evolution.

Q: What has Kenneth learned from his work with AmfAR and global HIV community engagement?

Kenneth's work with AmfAR and global HIV community engagement has had a profound impact on his life and millions of people's lives. He believes that research and philanthropy are key in finding a cure for HIV/AIDS. He highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and making a meaningful impact in community outreach. Kenneth has always strived to create a platform beyond just what his brand offers, bringing together community voices and making a difference.

Q: How does Kenneth see the future and the need to evolve in a rapidly changing world?

Kenneth understands the importance of staying relevant and contextualizing his work in a rapidly changing world. He believes that fashion and life, in general, require continuous adaptation and evolution. He acknowledges the challenges and opportunities of today, emphasizing the need to focus on the future and make a positive impact. Kenneth speaks to the infinite alternatives available today and how staying committed and accountable can lead to success.

Takeaways

Kenneth Cole emphasizes the significance of making our work purposeful and fulfilling. He believes in merging different aspects of life to find balance and meaning. Being resourceful and problem-solving are essential in achieving success. Kenneth demonstrates the importance of staying focused on the future and adapting to a rapidly changing world. He encourages curiosity, learning from others, and embracing the power of social platforms to make a meaningful impact. Finally, he reminds us of the need to question, evolve, and continuously strive to be relevant.