Do you work in a creative industry? Are you trying to find your way and make a living from your creative pursuits?
Odds are that you've heard this little phrase over and over; "It's all a matter luck".
The Truth is that in any competitive job market, such as the creative arts, you are going to have to be 'lucky' to get that dream job. But this is rarely some unexplained, intangible act of fate. No, you have to make your own Luck.
Be there to receive the luck
You're not going to get hired or noticed from your bedroom. You need to be out there making real connections with real people!
You never know who you're going to meet at that convention or that seminar or even that local event. The value of that real meeting with a real person cannot be underestimated. I believe it is actually more valuable in this day in age, where people generally hold less meaningful relationships communicate predominantly from an online platform. It's simple maths really; The odds of you meeting that person who could steer you're career in the right direction increase massively when you get out into the field and find them!
Show people who you are
Being able to portray your personality in that first meeting is priceless. What I have found from working in many studios with clients is that an employer is often looking for a good energy to bring to the workplace. In a studio environment, the client or other staff members need to be able to work with you for 12+ hours a day. This is incredibly testing and it takes a certain type of person to make that bearable! Working in a creative position isn't all about you're ability. Get out there, meet the right people and let your personality give you that edge.
A Positive outlook
This has to be the most cliched, overused piece of advice, but it really is essential. An optimistic attitude cultivates positive actions, which drive you ever closer to your goal. Your dream job is just an idea until you execute the steps to make it happen. You have to take that leap of faith and do so with a positive outlook - Start today; Try doing every little thing in your life in a positive, progressive way and see how it works out for you. It is so easy to fall in to negative mind patterns. "It's impossible", "I can't compete against them", "I'm not good enough". The fact is that in the work place, no one cares about your self doubt. There is simply no time or place for negativity or self deprecation because some one else will just come in an take that job, YOUR JOB.
Work hard - Stay positive - Keep working towards that goal, relentlessly.
The Professional Edge
We can't always meet our potential employer or client in person. That's one of the incredible aspects of the online platform that we often work from today, but it also means we cannot show off our wonderful personalities! This is where your online presence has to be on point. Ensure your website is updated and running smoothly, how often are you posting on social media? Does your online presence match the quality of your work?
We are in a position of absolute power when it comes to online networking. Create a contacts list of anyone who is anyone in your field and make sure they know you exist! Your online platform is likely to be the first place anyone goes to check you out, so make sure it is worthy of the quality service you are providing.
We all know that the job market for a creative person is pretty scarce and very competitive. We could all do with a little bit of luck from time to time. You've just got to get out there and make it for yourself.
Big Love
Jack