Australian Infront

Job Anyone?

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 10.41AM (Edited 09.12.2010 @ 7.44PM)

Anyway I hope I haven't become the pain in the arse on here but hey I finished my portfolio so off goes the 150+ emails to studios.

For the admins: By stepping on the fine line between posting a job ad thread - I hope I haven't stepped over but if anyone feels I have I am happy for them to move it.

I was wondering if anyone knows anyone looking for an intern or even a part time designer, could maybe ask or even suggest some places I should try. I am trying for the one at channel ten (on theloop.com.au), will be heaps awesome but I doubt I'll get it.

Also if anyone could give me their opinion on my portfolio that would be heaps appreciated :D its http://www.behance.net/corymayfield oh and for those who don't know I just finished my first year of Bachelor of Creative Arts (Graphic Design) at University of Wollongong.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 12.36PM

Hi Cory,

As a general rule I would advise against sending mass emails to studios.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 12.41PM

Hmm okay then what would be the other approach?

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 1.09PM

I would finish your course first before applying for jobs... and ditto on the mass email. Not good.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 1.15PM

First year... yeah, I'd focus on your other 2/3 years and building up your portfolio. If anyone, I'd suggest approaching local small businesses or the like who may need some design work done, that's a good way to build up your portfolio plus make a little extra cash.

And if needing cash, I'd go for a bar job or similar to tide you over.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 1.30PM

Getting to know other designers/studio owners in the industry can be very beneficial...

- Work hard at uni and the work will (hopefully) speak for itself
- Don't expend effort into trying to land a 'proper' job without graduating, or at least some basic experience
- Meet directors/designers at AGDA / DIA events
- Take the opporunity to talk to, and get to know people who give talks and lectures at Uni (inc. lecturers, sessionals)

Try and gain as much expereince as possible on non-uni projects so that your folio has diversity...

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 2.19PM (Edited 07.12.2010 @ 2.22PM)

I completely disagree. The quiet bird doesnt get fed. I applaud being proactive. You might have better luck actually going to studios though. Also. I personally feel design school is a waste of time. Just learn all the programs. Keep creating work based off popular design/designers. And get yourself out there. Work in a bar in the mean time. Post here. Enter competitions. Start a blog. Twitter. Design school is a waste of time. You will learn a 1000 times more the moment you start working.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 2.42PM (Edited 07.12.2010 @ 2.42PM)

As an employer I can tell you that finding staff can be a pain in the ass. Paying $180 or more to Seek or wherever, getting loads of applicants of various levels to filter thru. It can take weeks.
There are times when you want to put the time/effort/$ into getting the best applicant you can, and there's times when you just want to get that position filled so you can get the work done.

I have a folder I keep emails & resumes in from job hunters. When I want to fill that position fast, that's where I go first. I'm still going to check the required skills & attitude are there before giving a job but if I can save all that time, money & rejecting 100 people.... wahoo.

I don't think there's anything to lose. What - you'll apply for a job again there 3 years later on an advertised position and they'll say 'that punk emailed once looking for work, no way". ? Can't hurt, imo.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 2.43PM

Yeah getting work during uni is probably one of the best things you can do. It helps put uni work in a context and makes you appreciate those open briefs even more.

Finding work can be tough, but I'd recommend doing everything and anything. Most of the time emailing studios doesn't result in much but I don't think it hurts. Best way to get work is through contacts, referrals, doing volunteer work etc.

Posted 07.12.2010 @ 2.50PM

::Best way to get work is through contacts, referrals, doing volunteer work etc.

This.