Why receptionists are your best friends

When hunting for a job, it’s really easy to woo only the key decision makers: creative directors, senior designers, managers, supervisors, and partners. Since they decide whether you get hired or not, that makes sense.

Just don’t forget the receptionists, too.

Why?

Because they’re the gatekeepers to the decision makers. More importantly, they hold a wealth of information […]

Ask LifeClever: Should I Omit Short-term Work from My Resumé?

Trisha asks:

Should I omit any positions I have held for less than a year or insignificant ones? What is your opinion? I would rather explain a gap, like moving or staying at home with the kids, than explain why I left something after only 4 months.

If it’s not relevant, leave it out.

Think of […]

How Much Do Designers Get Paid?

Wanna know how much dough designers make? Check out the AIGA Survey of Design Salaries. Results for 2008 are out.

It’s dubbed “definitive,” but take it all with a grain of salt.

You can view the results on their site or download the PDF.

Ask LifeClever: How Do You Keep Growing as a Designer?

Samantha asks:

I’m just finishing up 4 years at an ad agency and moving to a new a location and job. I am wondering, how do you stay up on trends? I feel like sometimes I’m so caught up in the day-to-day getting-it-done that I forget to look around. Any tips […]

Portfolio Day might make you cry, but it’s worth it

If you’re looking for a design job right out of school, then AIGA Portfolio Day is your best chance to schmooze with local designers who might be hiring.

Even if you’re not looking for a job, it’s the best way to get useful feedback on your portfolio—even if the reviewers make you cry. Just remember, you […]

You are More than Your Portfolio

Erik Spiekermann once told me, “Portfolios don’t matter. You hire the person, not the portfolio.” Like Erik, the statement’s bold. But he’s got a point.

Your portfolio demonstrates what you already know, not your potential for learning, adapting, and growing.

Sure, a portfolio shows competency. At the minimum, you should know how to read, write, lay […]