Thursday, May 22, 2008

branding yourself

hardest. task. ever.

Stuck in a rut (financially + creatively), I recently decided to look for a new place of employment. Entering the job market as a graphic designer is a lot more work than just dusting off a résumé...

I started by creating a list of things I wanted out of my future job. While working on this, I brainstormed concepts that could be used across all mediums. I landed upon the idea of using "fresh" stickers to label all elements of my identity.



I choose to focus on a booklet of samples first. This is something I would mail to potential employers or give as a leave behind after my initial interview. It includes 4 pieces of work and a summary of my credentials + contact info.



After getting the booklet details perfected, I shopped around for A9 envelopes in a color I thought was oh-so-fresh. I also bought a few sheets of cover stock to add weight to the booklet. I found a PMS to perfectly match the curry envelopes and printed round stickers to adhere to each piece.

I updated my résumé + cover letter content and carried through the same type treatments as the booklet. Shauna copy edited everything, with no complaints.

After much thought and feedback, I decided to strengthen the concept by creating a "fresh" checklist. This would clarify any confusion and give me a chance to put a little of myself out there.



Based off my future career goals, I can honestly say this little sticker says a lot about me and what I want to do. Thoughts, ideas, what do you think?

Website update: I had plans of creating a simple digital portfolio, but every time I sat down to design it, I had the urge to turn it into so much more than just samples of work. I'm torn and due to time constraints, I think I will wait until after my vacation to proceed.

8 fancy comments:

Damon Henry said...

You're ahead of your time. You've got yourself a client. Very nice work!

Motor City said...

swank. very good work. clean, and dare I say, fresh.

Shauna said...

You already know my opinion on the topic.
I'll start compiling some inspiration for your portfolio via stumble while you're gone.
You're an easy person to copyedit for because the adjectives just pop out; it's not just me--Motor City proves my point!

ENJOY your vaca and TRY not to work. :)

John said...

Yeah you have some awesome work, and will more than likely be the first person I refer graphic design work to.

Deb Nystrom said...

Going to the digital portfolio after vacation sounds great, and consistent with "fresh" - Really enjoy your blogsite. Sunny fresh!

Sparkle + Fade said...

thank you. thank you. thank you.

Angela Shetler said...

Beautiful work!

I tried to trackback the beyondwords post for you but found out Blogger doesn't support that function. So here you go! http://beyondwordsblog.com/2008/05/23/creating-a-personal-brand

Luke Harvey-Palmer said...

Fantastic...what a great idea! Will work very well for my clients...any ME!