Designing Your Future
Starting your career post-grad can be a stressful task. Trust me, I've been living it. However, there are a few strategies that you can use to leverage your chances of getting hired. Even more so when getting hired for your dream position. By utilizing your network, participating in internships, and being persistent, you will undoubtedly find your way through the creative field.
Hi! My name is Kristin Ardese and I am a professional Graphic Designer and Marketing Strategist. I hope that by sharing some of my expertise, I can help offer valuable insights and build an engaging community.
Use Your Connections
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Networking is key in many industries, especially in the creative field. It is essential that you leverage the connections you've built throughout your life, whether it's friends, family, professors, or coworkers. I personally found this step incredibly beneficial in my budding career thus far. Some of my best working experiences have come not just from simply applying but also from utilizing the connections I have made. This is where keeping in touch with people and not being quick to burn bridges can really help you in life. People love to help people… it's just about making an effort to ask for it. According to the University at Buffalo, networking is one of the most successful ways of attaining career success:
"80% of professionals find networking essential to their career success, almost 100% believe that face-to-face meetings build stronger long-term relationships, and 41% want to network more often" (University at Buffalo)
One of my professors once shared invaluable words with me: "For every connection you make, you should come out with two more connections." This really stuck with me because, up until that point, I was only sourcing from the connections I already had. This idea, however, allows me to expand my network with each contact I make. In a world where job opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce, creating a robust network can truly make a difference in supporting your career development.
Find Internships
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Securing an internship is crucial not only for gaining resume-worthy experience but also for getting your foot in the door at any company. In today's competitive landscape, simply submitting applications may not be enough to secure you a position (even if you are more than qualified). If you have no internship leads from connections, there are additional steps you can take to increase your chances of landing a position.
Tailor Your Resume
Firstly, tailoring your resume and cover letter to each opportunity can significantly increase your chances of being seen by recruiters. According to Resumegenius, 63% of recruiters prefer tailored resumes. Many companies use AI software that sorts through submitted documents for keywords relating to the position. This helps them reach people who the computer thinks more accurately fit the role. However, adjusting the verbiage of your resume and cover letter for each application can help you pass the computer test in front of a human recruiter.
Reach Out
Additionally, consider contacting hiring managers or recruiters directly through emails or LinkedIn messages. Express your enthusiasm about the company and the position you applied for. This again helps your name get in front of hiring managers, putting you in a better position for an interview.
Be Persistent
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Throughout your career, it is essential to remember that business is not personal. Setbacks and rejections may occur, but they are all a part of the journey. Even if you secure an internship that doesn't immediately lead to a job odder, it's still a valuable addition to your resume and contributes to your professional growth. Being persistent means not giving up easily, even in the face of rejection. By staying persistent and resilient, you position yourself for long-term success in the creative field.
Show Up
Another impactful strategy for making a lasting impression is simply showing up to companies with your resume in hand. While most applicants only present themselves online, taking the initiative to personally hand deliver your resume demonstrates a proactive approach and genuine interest in the company. I have personal experience with this technique. Despite not securing a job with that particular agency, that "go get 'em" mindset ultimately led me to my current position (which ended up being even better!). Being persistent and resilient will allow you to seize opportunities and make a lasting impression in the competitive creative landscape.
The Bottom Line
Navigating the post-graduation journey as a designer can undoubtedly be challenging. However, armed with the right strategies and mindset, you can put yourself in the best position to secure your dream job. Leveraging your network, participating in internships, and maintaining persistence are key concepts to remember. By utilizing your connections, seeking out valuable internship experiences, and remaining resilient in the face of setbacks, you'll find your way through the competitive landscape of the creative field. Remember, success follows those who are willing to find it. So, stay proactive, persistent, and striving for your goals. Your dream design job may be closer than you think.
