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RSS FeedGet Those Feet in that Door!
May 22, 2008 Filed Under: Events 3 Comments
Chris Bradle, owner of Eye Design Studio & outgoing AIGA Charlotte President, guest moderated the May buzZ entitled "Get Your Foot in the Door & Keep it There". There was a great mix of seasoned professionals, newcomers to the field and curious members who love getting up early.
Chris structured his discussion around three main points: your portfolio, narrowing in on where you want to work and the process of getting there. He stressed the importance of getting feedback from as many people as possible on your book and always making sure to follow up in an unique, appropriate way that targets the company and who they are. Some of the designers working in the field offered up anecdotes about things they have tried in the past, both successful and dreadful. The people looking to make a change in their job situation were able to ask questions and bounce ideas off of the rest of the group.
In June, Maggie Bean, president of Karro Bean Design House, will moderate a discussion about owning and managing your own business or freelance career.
What was the most successful thing you did to get your foot in the door? AIGA Charlotte wants to hear your stories. Post them here.
jason keath
May 22, 2008
Networking. Making new relationships and (just as importantly) maintaining past relationships. Create a give and take with people in all aspects of your industry without having to ask for something from them. Opportunities will arise.
Rachel Martin
May 22, 2008
What works for me to get my foot in the door is a personal "Thank You" note to followup after my first meeting with a new client or potential freelance job. I make my own collage art note cards. I think people appreciate something handmade. I know I do! Baked goods and cookies have worked in the past as well. Even if they're not hiring or I don't get the gig, I get a positive response from them and hopefully have made an impact so that they remember me in the future.
Trent Edwards
May 28, 2008
I've had success with self promotional pieces that are focused more around my personality than my work. As long as the promotional piece itself is designed well, it will speak to the quality of design you do, and showing personality is important, after all people are hiring you, not the work you've already done.