What I Want Every Creative to Know About Applying for a Job

For a creative at any level right now looking for a job, it's hard out there.

And if I had a megaphone right now, I'd shout "Don't worry. Things will change. Please, and I can't stress this enough, don't let the quietness deflate you. This market isn't a reflection of just how bloody good and unique you are."

Last week I posted about a CD role at an Indie agency, I had 150 LinkedIn messages, and 60 emails over the weekend.

It got me thinking... How do you stand out in that?

Here are my hot takes:

1. Have an up to date portfolio.

2. Show personality in your book.

If you're applying to a culturally focused agency, make your book reflect the work you want to create.

I've spoken to ECD's and creative directors who have made work which the entire industry is jealous of, and the same 4 questions always pop up when they review books.

1. Have they made work I respect or am jealous of?

Or

2. Does their portfolio have personality or is it just another three by four squarespace block website template job?

Or

3. What famous work have they made?

Or

4. If they haven't made that famous work yet, what else are they doing to try to stand out?

Not every CD or ECD want's a superbly designed website, if you've won a Cannes Prix - congrats, this'll be a bit easier, but if you don't - you can do yourself a massive favour in standing out by giving your book a bit of personality. Weird. Or whatever it is that makes you, you.

Here are two other tips..

• Follow your favourite creatives. There are some awesome people out there showing the world how they get things done. Get inspired, and make it your own.
• Follow your favourite work, and find who's made it... what's their portfolio like? Get some inspiration. And don't be afraid to tell them too. Our industry is full of talented, kind and helpful people. Ain't nothing wrong with genuine flattery and intrigue.

If you're a creative not doing any of this already and not getting the result you want, give this a go, I'm 100% certain you'll get better results.

And lastly... I know it's hard out there. I know it's deflating. But keep going on, things will turn your way.