Last updated August 21, 2023 by Manny Ikomi

⌛️ While you are preparing

<aside> ⏳ Think hard about where you have been, where you are at now and where you want to go next with your (design) work.

• It doesn’t have to be your endgame or a final career decision.
• It should provide enough direction for you to at least take the next step and get advice from from a mentor. </aside>

<aside> ⏳ Do everything with intent. Always ask yourself “why am I doing this?”, “what value can I get out of it?” and “how is this moving me toward what I want to do next?”

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<aside> ⏳ Be present and engaged with your design classes and whatever project(s) you are working on.

• These are networking opportunities with your classmates and professors.
• Unexpected opportunities may come your way. </aside>

🔍 Searching & applying

<aside> ☝ Like investing, the best time to start applying for jobs is yesterday!

• It can seem like a lot during the semester (and it is) but you never know what might happen!
• Don’t worry if you can’t start working right away. Organizations that want to hire you will do their best to be flexible and understand we are still students.
  • They may offer contract/part-time work in the meantime! </aside>

<aside> ☝ Networking and referrals are much more powerful than any online application.

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<aside> ☝ Read and follow application instructions carefully.

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<aside> ☝ Use your typography skills to enhance email and written communications.

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👔 Interviewing

<aside> 👔 Don’t hide behind your work.

• Show what makes you unique in addition to how that may influence your creative process.
• Inner saboteur, imposter syndrome, internalized oppression. </aside>

<aside> 👔 Don’t underestimate the importance of soft skills.

• Effective communication.
• Ability to collaborate with others.
• Willingness to learn and grow, especially for entry-level roles. </aside>

<aside> 👔 You are interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you.

• Is their hiring process smooth and well planned out?
• Did the interviewer come well prepared?
• Do you sense any bias or problematic culture and behaviors?
• If you’re feeling bold, ask the interviewer “why should I work for [company]?” </aside>

🎭 Accepting or declining an offer

<aside> 🎭 You don’t have to accept the first job that comes your way if it’s not the right fit.

• This is a privilege.
• Sometimes saying no gives more power to your yes. </aside>

<aside> 🎭 Your compensation is more than just your salary or take-home pay. Remember to consider other benefits like vacation time, healthcare and sponsored retirement plans (like a 401k).

• When you turn 26, you will no longer be eligible for your parents healthcare plan. </aside>

<aside> 🎭 Unfortunately, negotiating compensation for entry/junior level design roles has considerably less leverage.

• It’s important not to lowball your initial ask. Know the market value of the role and type of design you will be doing. Then ask for more!
• You can increase your leverage by having a counter offer to negotiate with, but be prepared to walk (or settle) if it doesn’t work out. </aside>

🪞 What I learned in hindsight