Week 3 - Perks of owning a studio & Finding work

Besides being the designer, the owner of a studio will have other requirements. There is the need to find work and make sure that it is done in time. Sometimes this may mean putting in all niters. Eventually, all the work can’t be done alone, and you will need to hire a creative staff.

An interview is a scary first time encounter; not only for the person seeking employment but for the employer/owner as well. They need to know that they will hire a person that is not only creative but punctual and willing to give their all. One good piece of advice that was given was “’Always employ people who are better than you.’” As I read this it did not surprise me because it makes perfect sense. Who in there right mind would want to hire an individual that doesn’t know a lot because then what could he/she possibly offer to the studio. You need to employ someone who has skills and abilities that you as the owner lack and this would help both of you out in making the studio grow. Three key things to look for during an interview for designers is talent, suitability and potential.

Commitment to your staff is a big requirement. That they are happy and that they know that they are doing a great job when a client leaves content is important. Allow them to take credit for their work and reward their outstanding work in their paycheck. “’People who want to have their own businesses make the best employees. Never be frightened to employ people who ultimately want to start their own studios. Think about it; he said, ‘it’s what you did.’” Not much more needs to be said about this because there is nothing wrong with hiring people with ambitious people. “Future-proof” should be in your mind at all times. This is where you as owner of a studio will arrange interviews and will have a chance to see other people’s portfolios. This is what will allow you to stay ahead in your business. Hiring non-designers should only be done when you are set up with your studio and have established good studio management techniques.

In order to do meaningful work, then you have to “’sell yourself with integrity and precision.” Your clients will come to you by reference from a past client you may have had, networking is the best way to get more work. It’s also very important to keep a database of contacts. Keep in mind to promote yourself often for it may catch someone’s attention. Again it is essential to have a portfolio that expresses who you are and that people can view at all times. It’s a way that your portfolio is the one doing the work and speaks to potential clients and line up some new work for you. I still need to decide who my targeted audience for my portfolio will be, a big company or individuals?

When these clients come to see you at your studio or you need to go to them, remember to first do research. The Internet is our best friend when it comes to finding answers to our many questions. The truth is you will not be handed the answers in a silver platter, you will have to do many searches with some keywords and even in different search engines like Google, and yahoo. You should also visit this site that caught my attention while reading Designing a Digital Portfolio called design-engine.