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On Friday, September 19th, iDID and Tobi Kikaku co-hosted an event titled "[Even in the AI Era!? Sharpening Your Identity] The Power to Involve and Be Involved (and the Power to Elicit Information)." In this era of rapid advancements in AI and no-code, this event focused on how to establish one's identity through the power to involve and be involved. Karen from Tobi Kikaku staff reports on the event.
Co-hosted by:Tobi Kikaku Co., Ltd.iDID
Management cooperation:Hiroshima Creators Guild
Sponsors:Studio Co., Ltd.
Guest: Takashi InukaiNEWTOWN), Tom Ishikawa (Web Staff Co., Ltd.）
Why the power to draw others in and the power to be drawn in?
With the advancement of AI and no-code technologies, it's now possible to "create" even without being a professional creator. While quality, quantity, and speed may improve, ultimately, value lies in "people," and identity is becoming increasingly important, whether you're an individual or part of an organization.
Our guests today, Mr. Inukai and Mr. Tom Ishikawa (hereafter referred to as Mr. Tom), are always ahead of their time, creating movements around them. We set the theme of this event to explore the secrets of how they have honed their planning and communication skills and increased their charisma.
The content is useful not only for designers and directors, but also for those facing challenges in public relations and recruitment. That's why we extended our reach beyond the creative field and invited people from general companies to participate this time.
Session 01: Drawing Out Your Skills by Tobi Kikaku
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Tobi Kikaku Co., Ltd. | Nanamin, Designer / Director
Tobi Kikaku Co., Ltd. | Karen, Designer / Director
As an opening recreation activity, Nanami and Karen from Tobi Kikaku conducted a workshop on developing communication skills. They played a game called "grouping (*1)" which Tobi Kikaku usually incorporates as part of their client work.
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The game involves picking two or more words with a common theme from a list of 20 words and labeling them with the same group name. Five groups constitute one set, and the goal is to create the most sets.
This workshop aims to break down preconceived notions and established concepts to facilitate idea generation, and to create a comfortable atmosphere for discussion, thereby revitalizing the group.
By creating an atmosphere where clients feel free to think for themselves, we encourage them to share ideas and suggestions not only for online activities but also for offline activities, such as "I want to do this!" and "I want to try this!" (In fact, as an example from Tobi Kikaku, a client initially consulted us only about a website redesign, but later, discussions about "anniversary events" and "new company building construction" began to emerge, and the project became increasingly enthusiastic, ultimately developing into a fireworks display as a way to give back to the local community.)
Also, we often hear people say, "We want to know what Tobi Kikaku does in their workshops," so we thought that by letting everyone experience it firsthand, they could take away hints that they can use in their daily work and production.
Teams that performed well in the game would receive original merchandise created specifically for this event, as well as a book by Studio, so everyone was very excited.
The venue was quiet at the start of the event, but as the participants relaxed through the workshop, the atmosphere instantly became friendly and relaxed. They were communicating so actively that they couldn't even hear the microphone, and the venue was filled with conversation and laughter, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere.
As I went around to each table, I received questions such as, "Is this word no longer usable?", and I enjoyed seeing everyone so engrossed in the activity.
There were times when we were stuck and couldn't come up with any ideas, but that seemed to be the catalyst for the discussion to become even more lively. As the other members came up with ideas one after another, we stimulated each other and our ideas expanded, and before we knew it, the other participants were also naturally able to come up with ideas.
Even so, as people gradually ran out of ideas for group names, they started giving unconventional answers, and some truly unexpected ideas that no one had thought of before came out, eliciting applause and laughter from the audience.
I believe they were able to experience the process of discovering new perspectives from others through free-flowing dialogue within the team, and how more innovative ideas can be developed.I hope that the experiences gained through this workshop will provide hints for communication and project planning in each of your respective workplaces.
Furthermore, I was impressed by the atmosphere during the workshop, where people naturally grew closer regardless of their occupation or age, creating a sense of unity among them. It likely served as an opportunity for participants to talk to each other, leading to further interactions afterward.
Session 02: The Power of Involvement by Takashi Inukai (NEWTOWN)
First, there's the ability to engage people, demonstrated by Mr. Inukai of NEWTOWN. With unique ideas such as a recruitment website modeled after a book jacket, an apprenticeship system (Cobra Kai), and surveys and giveaway campaigns on X, Mr. Inukai attracts people and creates movements on social media.
Mr. Inukai shared his insights on what involvement actually means and how to apply it to your work, drawing on his own experiences.
First, Mr. Inukai shared some examples of his past involvement efforts. The participants seemed very interested in his many unique ideas.
On X, Ms. Inukai not only posts everyday tweets but also conducts surveys on simple questions that come to mind. Her questions, such as "I wonder how people wipe their bottoms," and the story of how she started her gift giveaway project because she admired the Yamazaki Spring Bread Festival, brought smiles to the audience's faces, and the talk proceeded in a very relaxed atmosphere.
"Involvement" refers to a creative style where you work together with people who respond to your call to action, building excitement in a two-way exchange.
Inukai:Working together, fighting alongside each other, and showing solidarity—that's probably what getting involved is all about.What really matters is whether the other person is willing.That's what I think. I believe that when those feelings align, a very beneficial creative style will emerge.
If you want to go fast, do it alone! If you want to go far, involve everyone!
Inukai:I can do it on my own, but when I want to turn it into a bigger movement, or transform it into something that brings greater joy and fun, I just can't do it alone. It grows bigger with the number of people involved. I really realized that through social media.
Akamatsu:It's very clear that Ms. Inukai builds relationships not only through social media, but also by meeting people in person and having them come to see her.
Inukai:I became friends with Akamatsu-san through various exchanges on social media, and I also made plans to meet Tom-san for the first time through social media, right? (laughs)
Tom:That's right, let's go eat a set meal at a fish shop together (laughs).
Inukai:I've learned that involving others makes things more exciting and accelerates progress, so I'm actively involving more and more people.
But,I have an intuitive feeling that it would be more interesting if I involved them.That's right. I instinctively like to involve others.
No profit is expected in getting people involved. Get them to participate because it "sounds interesting."
Inukai:This is NEWTOWN's recruitment website, and it's designed to look like a book with a dust jacket. Akamatsu-san, Tom-san, and iDID-san all wrote comments on the dust jacket, but we didn't ask them to.
When I said on X, "I wonder if someone would write a blurb for the book," a snowball of people started coming forward to write comments, and it really took off. It probably wouldn't have worked if I had asked them to write it.
Akamatsu:It might have been a little difficult if I had been asked to do it.
Inukai:I don't like it when the person I ask feels obligated. If I really want them to write what they think, I shouldn't ask them.
When involving someone, what I'm careful about isLet's make sure profits don't come first.That's the point. We want people to participate because they think, "That sounds interesting!" We're really committed to that.Akamatsu:My first thought is, "Why would I do something like this?" (laughs) I wonder where it will lead and where it will end up, but it just rolls and spreads out, doesn't it?
Inukai:I don't think "Why am I doing this?" in my head, so from the outside it must look really strange (laughs).
Akamatsu:But this actually got nominated for the Studio Design Awards and won the Idea Award.
Furthermore, Mr. Inukai shared some tips for putting the concept of involving others into practice. He said he keeps the following three things in mind when trying to involve people in something.
In the latter half of the talk, Mr. Inukai actually involved the participants in a survey about the projects he is currently working on.
We decided by a show of hands which of three websites we would like to see realized: a pajama site to showcase the appeal of our favorite UNIQLO pajamas, a matching site connecting design mentors with apprentices who will pass on their skills, and a postcard gallery featuring quotes from various creators.
The project that was decided by a show of hands was "Apprentice and Master."
When Mr. Inukai declared, "I will create apprentices and masters!", the audience erupted in thunderous applause.
I hope it provided some insights and inspiration.
I was very impressed by Mr. Inukai's efforts to proactively share things he finds interesting and good, regardless of profitability, and by how he naturally draws everyone into a large movement.
I think many people were inspired by their stance and speed in taking immediate action on interesting ideas, even creating websites without considering profit!
Participants were impressed by her unwavering commitment to sharing her work without fear of external judgment, with comments such as, "I was able to experience firsthand her ability to engage others. I myself want to cherish my curiosity and steadily continue sharing my passions."
We often feel that it's difficult to involve others in something, but I learned a lot of things I can start working on today to improve my ability to involve others. Thanks to Mr. Inukai's unique perspective and excellent speaking pace, it was a very friendly and stimulating talk session.
Session 03: The Power of Getting Involved by Tom Ishikawa (Web Staff Co., Ltd.)
Next up is Tom from WEBSTAFF, who has the ability to get involved. In addition to his main job (recruitment agent),GOOD PORTFOLIOTom is involved in a variety of activities, including managing events, speaking at events, and photography. Where does his ability to draw people in come from? And what kind of journey and inputs lie behind him becoming so involved? He shared his thoughts in detail.
It all started with a careless, unplanned work project.
Tom:The person who got involved and became the representative was a large amountAccidental work (work that isn't my main job)Because I did that. I was hosting "Direction Until Morning 2" even though I wasn't directing. Isn't that weird? (laughs)
Akamatsu:That's strange...
Tom:Also, I get invited to camera events even though I'm not a photographer, and I get commissioned to write articles even though I'm not a writer.
Reactions after being involvedThis is also creating opportunities for further involvement. After events, I post reports on Note, but for example, I wasn't asked to write a report about directing until morning. I just wrote it because I was so moved and had so much fun.
I even voluntarily submitted reports at Adobe events. After writing them, I became an official writer for the Adobe blog (laughs).Inukai:Writing a report makes it easier to involve others, right? (laughs)
Akamatsu:The report is of good quality, has a large word count (an astonishing 1+ words), includes photos, and is submitted the very next day.
Tom:But we don't do it strategically or with any intention of making a profit. We just get requests.If my heart is moved, I'll do it.That's my motto. However, since I'm just an employee, I think it's important to properly fulfill my mission and commitments there every day. Once I've established that foundation, when a request comes in, I go all out.
The sheer number of achievements outside of his main profession caused some laughter from the audience.
In fact, just two days after the event, Tom released an event report exceeding 10,000 characters, and everyone at Tobi Planning was shocked, wondering, "When does he even find the time to write that?!" It was a moment when we were truly impressed by Tom's dedication and speed.
I got dragged into an event by the mysterious phrase "the power to get involved," and somehow ended up talking about love, AI, and identity in Hiroshima.
The underlying principle is "Learning is justice."
Tom:The basis for what I value is the parent company of the web staffIBJ extensionThere is a company called Internet Business Japan, and its philosophy isLearnThat's what we advocate. Learning involves input and output, and the output we're thinking of is doing work. We aim to build a career by repeating these two things, and the 20 years I spent growing up in such a company form the foundation of who I am today.
Akamatsu:"Learning is justiceYou used the phrase "..." this time, didn't you?
Tom:That's right. Maintaining the status quo is stagnation, and the people around me are constantly learning, so I believe it's important to keep doing new things, and I also look up to the two founders.
Akamatsu:I wonder when he finds the time to read and listen to everything. He's always on the go and incredibly busy. But as soon as someone releases information, he's already read it or given his opinion, he's covered everything.
Below are some of the media sources that Tom uses for input. In particular, he says he makes it a point to read the Nikkei Shimbun carefully in order to gain the same perspective and vocabulary as the CEOs and executives he works with.
The turning point that led to Tom getting caught up in the situation
Tom:It may seem like everything is going smoothly, butThe Lehman Shock in 2008 and the period of temporary hiatus in 2020 were turning points.I think so. It's when I switch into work mode, or when I switch in too much and end up doing something else and then burn out.
I think the period after I took a break was when my ability to get involved really blossomed. Up until then, I had been working for corporations, but I started working with individuals. That was the start of my current career support work. At that time, I wanted to understand the lifestyles of individual creators, so I started posting and communicating on X (Twitter).
I want to be someone's biggest follower.
The ability to get involved is "the best way for a shy and inert person like me to connect with the world."Tom:A video that I really cherish and think is incredibly good is Derek Sivers' "How do you start a social movement?It's a video titled "...".
This video is about how leaders are important, but so are their followers. After hearing about the power of getting people involved, I thought, "That's it!"I'm not the type to turn an idea into reality and say, "Let's do it!" like Mr. Inukai,I want to be the biggest follower of interesting people!He's the type of person who generates that kind of passion.
Also, I'm the type of person who wants to do something but can't take action. So I thought, wouldn't it be easier to just ride along with someone who's already trying? I figured that being able to get involved is a way for someone as shy and passive as me to connect with others.
Inukai:From the perspective of the person doing it, it's incredibly helpful. It makes me very happy.
Tom:It's truly amazing to start something from scratch. I always have gratitude and respect for that.
In summary, it's about "embracing AI with love and refining its identity."
Love is about having an interest in something. I think the conclusion here is that we should use AI to refine our individuality, creativity, and human relationships.
Tom is involved in projects that transcend industry and sector boundaries.Accidental workWhile it was defined in a lighthearted way, I realized that it wasn't simply a matter of being dragged along; it was based on the belief that "learning is justice," cultivated as a businessman, and a sense of gratitude and respect for those who involved. I believe many participants were impressed throughout by his proactive ability to engage others.
Tom is known for his bright and approachable personality, but his career has also included a turning point where he took a leave of absence. Perhaps we've been able to learn a side of Tom that we didn't know before.
Participants who know Tom well commented, "We got to hear stories from his past that we'd never heard before. I'd always wondered what kind of person he was, but it was great to learn about his thoughts and feelings! It felt like I got to know my friend even better."
Tom himself said that this theme of "the ability to involve others and the ability to be involved," which he had never thought about before, was a refreshing experience that gave him an opportunity to reflect on turning points in his life and himself.
This talk session made me strongly feel that I need to emulate Tom's stance and speed in constantly sharing information and showing interest in and gratitude towards people and things through his actions.
Question Corner
Following the talk session, there was a Q&A session. In addition to questions and requests for advice from the audience, they also answered questions that had been submitted in advance.
Do you have any tips for being moved by something or for falling in love with something?
Inukai:Being able to naturally find one's strengths is,The ability to find things more interesting than othersI think that's why. Mr. Akamatsu, don't you ever wonder how other people wipe their bottoms?
Akamatsu:No, it won't.
Inukai:I'm really curious about it.Look at things from a different perspectiveI've been doing special training since I was young, and actually, there are also things I've acquired over time; I was drilled in the ability to see things from multiple perspectives at an art school preparatory course. I think you can all do it if you consciously try!
Tom:When you arrived in Hiroshima today, you were noticing a lot of things in the car, weren't you? Like, why are so many of the roof tiles brown?
I want to collaborate with others, but I hesitate because I'm worried I don't have any value to offer. Please give me some advice!
Tom:Even if you focus on the value you offer, it might not resonate with others. So, I think it's important to first focus on others and gather information about their different attitudes and ways of thinking. This will give you clues about what value you can offer to others.
Inukai:You might be under the impression that this isn't beneficial to the other person, so it might be a good idea to explore it from various angles, keeping that assumption in mind.
How should a leader behave to inspire others to act spontaneously?
Tom:I think that enjoying something or being interested in it has an impact on those around you. If people see even a hint of self-interest in what you're doing, it makes it harder for others to act.
Inukai:It seems easier to work under someone who doesn't usually behave emotionally, right? But it's difficult because it depends on how you define a leader, and it varies depending on the era and place. If I had to say one thing, it would be to assess the conditions and circumstances. Because there's no single answer.
Finally
This time, we held an event focusing on a fundamental perspective somewhat removed from the creative aspects. In a world where AI is becoming widespread and things are becoming increasingly convenient, I think this was a good opportunity to reconsider the importance of human connection and individual identity. I believe there was much to be gained from this, including insights into the nature of work.
Despite the diverse group of participants from different generations, professions, and backgrounds, the feedback we received after the event conveyed how it had inspired everyone in their daily work and creative activities, which made us, as organizers, feel incredibly rewarded.
I hope that by repeatedly gathering and sharing information and taking action, I can establish my own identity and create a model where I can enjoy co-creating creativity across industry boundaries.
Behind the scenes of the eventCLICK HERE
