Career Advice - The DESK Magazine (Page 7)

How to stay motivated when you’re spread thin

With this series, I am attempting to answer questions from readers asking for design advice. I can’t promise I know the right answer, but I’ll always do my best to be honest and share the most practical information I know.

by Tobias van Schneider

A dangerous approach to problem solving

The most interesting people are the ones who don’t avoid reality. The people who are honest both with themselves and with others. Who not only recognize their flaws or fears or mistakes, but openly admit them – even laugh about them.

by Rosa Koolhoven

The beauty of bartering

A plane ticket to Miami with a free place to stay, a train ticket to London, ten days accommodation in New York, a sustainable clutch made from recycled leather, beautiful bracelets with rare gemstones and beads. This year, I have (re)discovered the art of bartering.

by Tobias van Schneider

The art of doing

I’ve written about this so many times. Directly and indirectly, inspired not only by my own thoughts, dreams or concerns, but often those around me. A conversation with a friend that keeps repeating itself, in circles, again and again.

by Tobias van Schneider

The makings of a great designer

I’ve talked to dozens of companies about what they look for in a designer. While we have seen trends in their answers, many of them also conflict with each other. I agree with some and disagree with others. So now, I’d like to share what I personally consider when hiring a designer for my team.

by Tobias van Schneider

When your target audience is yourself

It's easier to build something for your target audience if you're in it.

by Tobias van Schneider

How to fire a client

Over the years, I’ve learned ways to spot a bad client from a distance. Most of it comes down to trusting my gut and recognizing red flags, so I can avoid taking on that client from the beginning.

by Tobias van Schneider

The look of an unprofessional designer

When was the last time you saw someone using a Hotmail or Yahoo address? For me, it was yesterday. And the day before that.

by Tobias van Schneider

Where design school got it wrong

I notoriously did not go to university. So when designers ask if I think self-taught or school is better, I can’t give a fair answer.

by Tobias van Schneider

Why you should keep your portfolio updated – especially if you have a job

I recently ran a poll on Twitter asking what people did with their portfolio once they got a job. The results were both surprising and not surprising.