MESSAGE FROM DIANE DOMEYER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CREATIVE GROUP
Can you believe it’s a new year? That means it’s time to set goals and make plans to move your life and career forward. And the future is bright for creative professionals.
More businesses are recognizing the value of design and, as a result, job growth and salaries are increasing. According to The Creative Group’s latest hiring survey, employers plan to add staff in a range of areas, including web and print design, content marketing and customer experience.
At the same time, hiring managers are having a hard time finding the staff they seek. Demand remains strong and unemployment rates in the industry continue to trend below the average. Given the shallow talent pool, companies have to work harder to attract and retain top talent. Some are even willing to take on junior associates that they can train if the candidates have strong soft skills and fit in with the workplace culture.
Are you ready to take advantage of the job opportunities that are available today?
HERE ARE THREE THINGS YOU CAN DO TO IMPROVE YOUR CAREER PROSPECTS IN 2017:
1. PERFECT THE BASICS Ensure that your resume, cover letter, portfolio and social media presence show- case your best qualities and are error-free. One typo could cost you an interview, especially for a competitive position.
2. DISPLAY YOUR WORK ON THE WEB No matter what type of creative role you’re pursuing, a digital portfolio is a must. Hiring managers treat it as a first pass to determine whether an applicant merits further consideration. You can find a wealth of digital portfolio tips on the TCG Blog at roberthalf.com/creativegroup/blog/tag/portfolio.
3. ALWAYS BE NETWORKING Word of mouth is still the best way to drum up job leads. Join business networking groups and industry associations and partner with a specialized staffing firm to expand the circle of people who can help you with your employment search.
It’s an exciting time to be entering the creative industry, but it takes passion, commitment and hard work to succeed. I wish you the best of luck as you embark on your new journey and wish you a productive year ahead!
Diane Domeyer is executive director of The Creative Group, a specialized staffing service placing interactive, design, marketing, advertising and public relations professionals with a variety of firms. For more information, visit roberthalf.com/creativegroup.
