So in class last week, Tyler said something about a majority of persons in the design business getting out of it and reasons why they would. So I tried to find advice from some successful designers with longevity in their field.
Michael Bierut (image 1) said "Clients are most afraid that you’re going to go off and design something without really listening first. Just keep asking questions: the more you ask, the more you’ll understand what the client is looking for in a designer."
David Schimmel (image 2 & 3) said "Figure out what your vision is, what your interests are and where you want to focus — and then spend the time when you’re not designing pursuing clients in that area. People work with people they want to work with, not necessarily those who are best for the job. And it’s not always fair. Instead of fighting, try to embrace it, and then you can succeed."
Michael Schwab (image 4) said "You cannot be shy. You have to be aggressive. It helps to be obsessed and driven. When you’re starting out, strive to work for people who really inspire you, and who you admire not only creatively, but ethically."
To find more advice and profile information including how and why they got into the business, their "keys to success", tips to a sustainable career, favorite accomplishments, and SO much more, check out http://willsherwood.com You can see their work in a larger format and there were also 7 more designers interviewed including illustrators!!
2 comments:
Thanks for posting this Tina. When Tyler said that last week, I got really nervous! It scared me a little bit. It was really helpful that you posted this advice from other designers. I especially agree with Michael Schwab and David Schimmel. I think you should design for people in a specific area that you are interested in. For example if you love technology, there are millions of companies out there to design for. Or if you love music, design things for music artists, and production companies. That way, you are doing something you are passionate about, and don't get bored. You can alter your career as your interests change. I think you have to keep striving for success, not just in the beginning but throughout your entire career!
I completely agree with what Michael Schwab says. You must work for or with people that inspire you and whom you admire. Working 40+ hours a week, you see your co-workers more than your own family. If the environment is not conducive to good work along with creativity, it's way too easy to become creatively drained; faster than you'd think.
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