How do you change your career into a creative field with little work experience in that industry?

I'm hoping to change careers into a creative field. Most of my formal experience was in the fashion industry as a buyer. I have been a freelance graphic deisgner and brand innovator for 8 years but i have been doing that on the side. I am now looking to make my passion my full time career.

Replies4

  • Hey Liz, 8 years of experience is an incredible wealth of knowledge and expertise. Don't wait for anyone's permission. As @Abraham Abbi Asefaw says, potential is always part of your pitch. The fact that you have all of that time as a buyer is an advantage, not an obstacle. That's a perspective that you can offer clients as part of your design and branding work that your competitors can't.
  • Hi Liz,
    one thing is clear, there's room for anyone in this industry. And my main advice would be to
    - try to connect with someone in the industry who can mentor you
    - create side projects that will allow you to segway into it.. changing field is not something that happens overnight but you can actually fairly quickly better and reinvent youself. I have a friend who in a matter of 1 year left his own fashion brand, took courses in UX and landed a job at Burberry as a UX designer. It is totally possible with dedication and confidence.

    When you're transitioning, you're selling potential, not a finished product. So regardless if you have zero experience or some, either is a strenght. You need to sell that and your potential.

  • Hey Liz,
    I think the key is to show a passion and willingness to learn in your new chosen industry. The more you can do to show the kind of work you've been doing in your spare time, and the desire you have to pivot the better.

    I've seen people trying to change disciplines and sectors assuming that the people hiring in the 'new' area will just assume that they will be suitable; rather than making it super clear with their work and proactivity.

    Good luck!
    Alex
  • Hi Liz!
    Would totally recommend looking at advice number 2 on this article here: https://the-dots.com/projects/top-20-career-tips-to-help-you-kick-start-2020-372777
    The brilliant @Alec Dudson of Intern Magazine gives fantastic advice on this!
    For more advice, check out the full Ask here:
    https://the-dots.com/asks/what-is-your-no-1-advice-to-give-to-someone-looking-to-secure-their-first-job-within-the-creative-industry-2194
    Best of luck with everything x
    Cathy

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