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I’d ask your CD first. I had an ACD who let me and my partner answer questions / rationalize the creative on client calls, but it was a very small account.
It depends on your client/your relationship/the question. If I am unsure, I generally ping my boss to the side. If they consistently give the answer for you, chat with them in your next 1:1 if that was a moment where you should have jumped in. Slowly, you'll figure out when your boss is ok with you jumping in or would rather hold something as a follow up. In the mean time you are making them look good which is a win
Depends on the question. There are some questions that are best answered with “that’s a good note we can take that back with us” and some that are fine to answer. A good rule of thumb is to give your CD a beat to answer and if you feel like it’s something you can answer, speak up.
Use your judgement. Small things are fine for you to answer. Bigger things that go beyond the work, such as strategic direction for the campaign, negotiating media, or deadlines — never go over your CD’s head.
Also consider general office politics. Never outshine your boss in front of the client, or even make your boss feel outshined in general. If your CD is insecure, they may sabotage your career growth. A secure CD will take it in stride to have an ambitious team, but many CDs aren’t so level-headed.
I personally like to work with people who are “better” (for lack of a better way to say better) than me — it literally makes everything … better! But I know for a fact that I am in the minority. Years ago, I’ve been through hell and back working under egotistical CDs. Your life will be much easier by strategically feeding their egos.
I’m curious what you mean by outshining a CD. I have a feeling i know but it may be a little off. Sometimes i will jump in to add context or defend an idea if they have questions or i feel like something important hasn’t been said yet. Sometimes my CDs are spread thin and just aren’t as close to the work/brief as I am. Our presentations are usually pretty tight but whenever i’ve gone “off script” it usually works out for the better and other depts seem to acknowledge it. But i do worry about toe stepping.
Sounds like a conversation you should have with your CD. Some will be protective of the work or not trust you. Most will find a way to get you involved. Be proactive about it and let them know you want to be more client facing.
Be sure you have the right answer, or wait for someone who does. I’d rather my team take the questions, at least the ones I trust.
Answer, answer, answer. Never be afraid to talk to clients.