Today, I want to talk about something that might make you fidget in your ergonomic chairs, and I hope to God you have ergonomic chairs. Please don’t make me have to write articles on how to deal with back pain.
So it’s time, (in the voice of your favourite villain) -it's time to delve into the world of self-marketing.
Now, I know what you're thinking: "Marketing? But I just want to design amazing things! Why should I bother marketing myself? I just want to focus on my design work!" And I totally get it. The last thing you want is to turn into a walking billboard, plastering your face on every corner of the internet. But let me share a secret with you: marketing yourself can be fun, empowering, and dare I say it, even a little bit profitable.
First things first, though. Why should you bother with self-marketing? Well, imagine being the world's most amazing designer (which, let's face it, you probably are). But unless your talent is telepathy, how will anyone know about your extraordinary abilities? That's where marketing comes in. By putting yourself out there, you can showcase your work, attract dream clients, and create opportunities that might have otherwise been hidden away like that forgotten USB drive at the bottom of your drawer.
Craft a Memorable Elevator Pitch: Picture this, you step into an elevator, and standing next to you is your dream client, waiting to be dazzled by your genius. Can you sum up your unique style and creative superpowers in a few engaging sentences before the elevator reaches their floor? Think about it as a mini-adventure in persuasion, and if you don’t have an elevator pitch that perfectly describes your brand, you should work on creating one.
Showcasing Your Personality: In a world filled with cookie-cutter portfolios and generic LinkedIn profiles, stand out by displaying what makes you unique. Sure, a stunning portfolio will turn heads, but why stop there? Design isn't just about visuals; it's about capturing the essence of your personality. Injecting your authentic self into your marketing creates a connection that resonates with clients. Don't be afraid to show off your quirks, your passions, and your love for design. Remember, you're not just selling a service, you're selling yourself. Clients are not just looking for designers, they're seeking a creative partner who can bring a fresh perspective to their projects.
Be a Social Media Magician: The realm of hashtags, likes, and comments and chaos but it will do you good to embrace the chaos. Social media isn't just for sharing pictures of your flawless face (aka selfies). It's a powerful tool for self-promotion. Create eye-catching content, sprinkle a generous dash of humour in your posts, engage with your fellow designers, and join communities where you can share your expertise. Pro tip: memes are social media gold. Master the art of using them and you'll have people clicking that "Follow" button faster than you can say Arial.
Network Like a Boss: While designing in solitude can be blissful, there's a whole world out there waiting to discover your talent. Networking doesn't have to mean stuffy conferences and awkward introductions. Attend design meetups, join online forums, or even organise your own design hangouts. Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can lead to exciting collaborations and unexpected opportunities.
Embrace the Power of Storytelling: Humans have been telling stories since cavemen drew stick figures on cave walls. Your design journey has a story too, so tell it. Storytelling is an amazing tool that helps you connect with your audience on a personal level. Share the ups, downs, and the moments that have shaped you as a designer. Engaging stories resonate with people and makes your content relatable, memorable, and irresistible. Don’t be scared to tell your story in the most authentic way possible. In the timeless words of Emeli Sande, “If no one ever hears it, how we gonna learn your song?” By sharing your unique journey, you can not only attract clients but also inspire other designers. Now that’s how you become a design superstar.
So there you have it, guys – the power of self-marketing in a nutshell. Remember, your skills are extraordinary, and the world deserves to know about them. Go forth, conquer the design universe, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey.
Did you find this article helpful? Don’t forget to drop a comment and let me know.