What advice would you give to a graphic designer offering free work to build a portfolio?
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- Hello DorothyOne word: "Don't"The term "Freelance" comes from back in the middle ages where a Free Lance was a mercenary soldier-for-hire. NOT someone working for free.I dont quite know where you might want to go - but I cannot help but feel that I should provide you with some guidance. (based on 40 years of Advertising & Marketing experience)First off - where is your portfolio? Of the work that you have already done? or were producing while you were at Design college?Secondly - you, your skill and your time and knowledge have a value. Do not be shy to put a price to those. (No one values the things they got for free - and the experience of getting something for free is as short as your last memory).Third - if you DO elect to do a job at a reduced rate for the SOLE purpose of getting the project - tell the client that THAT is why you are dong it.Last - and because I believe you need to be warned - never fall for the promise of "more work later on - based on your reduced fee today".(Just in case you missed the sign in the supermarket that said "Free Bread Tomorrow!"There is no Free Lunch. If you work for free - YOU are the lunch.Take care and Be Wise Out There!Ciao
- If you're doing free work, be picky only take projects that help your portfolio. Set clear boundaries, make sure you can post the work, and work with people who trust your ideas. And if you don’t get good briefs, just create your own.
- don't do free work
- *would be building your portfolio of work online, I meant.
- Hi Dorothy, a great start would building your portfolio of work online, so people can discover your talents! I think I saw a website you made of your work, and it looks great so far. I agree with Floor Plan Girl that it could be great to add a contact form or an email on your website, so people can reach you if they want to work with you. You're doing a good job beginning your journey by connecting with artists on The Dots! It's also a good idea to offer free work as a way to build your portfolio in the beginning, and you can charge for your services when you feel ready. Keep up the good work. :)
- I couldnt find a way to contact you. Before moving forward, think about this: if someone asked you how to reach you, what would you do? It might help to set up a simple email contact or a landing page that clearly shows how people can get in touch. Keeping things straightforward makes it easier for everyone. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
- Begin by drafting a simple email or setting up a basic landing page that clearly states who you are and what you do. Make sure you highlight your unique style and mention that you're offering your work for free to build relationships. At the same time, refresh or establish your social media profiles to consistently display your projects and personality. This combined approach not only lets your true talent shine but also paves the way for future opportunities. And remember—if you ever need advice, most creative folks are more than happy to lend a hand when you're just getting started like you are doing now. Love 💙💙💙
- What Angélique said and also don't comprimise with the Art Direction and produce work it's true to you and you're proud of.
- Learn multidisciplinary approaches. Try some AI, motion graphics, typography, 3D rendering, etc.. to fully diversify your portfolio and become more hireable. It's a saturated industry and you need to be one of the best! Also think about the the purpose of your designs, your artistic identity and values, this will help your work stay unique and personal
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