TIPS For Graphic Designers That Have Been Made Redundant.
I, like so many others in the creative industry, have been made redundant due to the economic effects of Covid-19. I would like to share with you some tips that have helped me, since the shock of being made redundant.
Breathe.
After finding out you’ve been made redundant it is really important to take a step back and breathe. Try not to take the decision personally, as in most cases your employer has been forced into making this difficult decision.
Stay Professional.
Even though your emotions will be all over the place, try to remain calm. Don’t burn any bridges, as when things pick up your employer might want to bring you back.
Collect References and Recommendations.
It’s really important to collect References from your employers as this will help you find a new job. The social media platform LinkedIn has a feature whereby your connections can add Recommendations, these can be viewed by your other connections, which could then lead onto an interview.
Update your C.V and Portfolio.
Now that you have some spare time on your hands, it’s time to dust off your C.V and Portfolio and give them a refresh. Nothing is worse than seeing a dream vacancy appear online then submitting a Portfolio that you’re not proud of. The same applies to your C.V., which is there to help you and represents the most current and best version of yourself. Therefore, it is imperative to keep it updated, adding recently completed courses and new programs that you’ve learnt.
Create a Website.
Having a PDF of your Design Portfolio is great. However, a Website is brilliant, as this does not need to be downloaded by your recruiters or future employers. Having a Website also gives you the opportunity to ‘show-off’ your Graphic Design skills on a different platform and may also give you the opportunity to learn something new, like Analytics, which could then, potentially, make you more employable.
Your New 9 til 5.
I found that what worked for me, in terms of responses and traffic, was treating the job hunt as a temporary 9 till 5. The recruiters and employers will be working as usual, therefore, more likely to open e-mails and check out your creative work whilst they are at work themselves.
Freelancing.
Could Freelancing be an option? During these uncertain times many employers are not looking to recruit. Going Freelance could be a short-term fix whilst you’re looking for a full time and permanent position.
Be Ready.
Make sure you’re available for phone calls, interviews and e-mails, as you don’t want to miss an opportunity. Having a list of questions you’d like to ask also helps, as sometimes you’ll be caught ‘off guard’ with a telephone call. One of my questions would be, “Will there be the option to work from home?”
Stay Positive.
I know at times this is easier said than done but try to stay positive nevertheless. A positive attitude will help during interviews and will reflect on the people around you.
Take Breaks.
All of this will be intense and overwhelming so it’s good to take a break and relax...
I find breaking up the ‘job hunt day’ in the form of taking my dog out, going out on the bike or playing Red Dead Redemption 2, helps me recharge my batteries. If you’re ‘burnt-out’ or come across tired in your interviews, recruiters might get the wrong impression of you so it’s really important to rest and Be Kind to Yourself.