How to Transition from Practice to Paid
When I introduce myself at gatherings, eventually you get asked “What do you do?”. And sometimes when I respond with designer, people will either ask for themselves or a friend how to enter the field. I figured after a handful of times, it was an important topic to discuss.
"I have an Instagram account where I post my designs, do I still need to build a site?"
Instagram is a great place to build your brand and grow your portfolio. However, if you are applying for in house positions, nothing will replace a website (at least not yet). Some companies, especially tech companies will ask for an optional instagram username which is great for those with a design presence. However, not all companies feature that option so the portfolio website is still #1.
2. "What should I include on my website?"
Build a portfolio you want to get paid for. This means don't feature EVERYTHING you create but pieces you want to get hired again for in the future. I use to "hide" behind work that I got paid for or was praised, but they weren't work I wanted to continue to create. The problem? I was getting work similar to those projects. That's when I pivoted towards a new direction. I removed the work from site and focused on work I'd like to design again. Build a portfolio that will open the doors you want. The hardest part of building a site is being your own art director. It's important to be your own critic and campion. The goodnews is it's gets easier with time.
3. "What if I don't have enough work to present on a site?"
If you have an idea of where you would like to work, but don't feel like your portfolio reflects their brand, create personal projects. Never underestimate personal projects. They can shape what type of work you get in the future as well.