The 10 Creative Commandments

Ten rules for emerging creatives looking to break into the industry, featuring insights from experienced creative and LCC programme mentor Gary Black.  

Working your way up the traditional career ladder is no longer the only option within the creative industries. Going from internship to entry-level job to junior role to senior position remains a viable route, but someone can now make a name for themselves on their own terms outside of that pathway.

It’s not easy, however. In fact, the levels of talent, creativity and ambition required to succeed are more demanding and challenging than ever, leaving those looking to immerse themselves in a particular creative field needing to use any and every advantage at their disposal.

So, in collaboration with London College of Communication mentor Gary Black, an experienced graphic designer and current managing partner at the creative agency Uffindell, we have curated a list of 10 key messages to help graduates transition from education to industry.  

The Creative Commandments   

   

1. A strong fundamental understanding of industry is indispensable 

This may seem obvious, but whilst studying at university it is easy to get to caught up in assignments and deadlines, and lose sight of the core components that distinguish your subject area from others. So, having a basic foundational understanding in relation to your studies and interests is essential. Know what is it that you are doing and what you ultimately want to do. 

2/3. Consistency is everything – and staying true to your creative identity  

When transitioning from institutional learning into the professional settings of industry, it is integral to remain true to your creative identity. With the internet and social media highlighting the work of other creatives, your own identity can be caught up in a creative storm. With ‘inspiration’ at your fingertips, subconsciously it becomes inevitable that one is influenced by different styles and trends which then filter into your own work. Being inspired is a positive thing, but you must stay true to your own creative identity, developing the skills and qualities that enable you to stand out.  

4. Time is precious, so use it wisely

Gary states: “The creative mind never switches off” – and in that we possess the ability to pluck inspiration from the simplest things like the back of a cereal box. So, we need to make the best possible use of our time as creatives, through taking notes, jotting down ideas, making scrap books, developing our skills and strengthening our portfolios. “The key is in not spending time, but in investing it” – American educator, author and entrepreneur Stephen R. Covey 

5. Be adaptable, flexible and multifaceted 

Our recent challenging times have led to a shift within office culture which has underlined that, more now than ever before, adaptability is vital. Our workplaces no longer reside within the confines of office buildings. Instead, they might be the familiar four walls of our kitchens, living rooms and or bedrooms as “remote working becomes an increasingly adopted approach,” according to Gary. Adaptability is also required when working on many projects at once, especially for freelancers, whether that means adapting one’s skills to a client’s brief, or fitting in with new working patterns.  

The need to be flexible also ties in with the importance of being multifaceted. Nobody wants a one-trick pony, and those looking to distinguish themselves from the competition need to have several strings to their bow. This has become even more apparent within the creative industries as new roles appear requiring knowledge of several different areas of expertise that previously did not go hand in hand.  

6. Technology is paramount – so use it

Technology is the key to acquiring knowledge, and the internet can be harnessed as a fundamental learning tool for those looking to expand upon or acquire a new set of skills – especially as employers are, says Gary, increasingly looking for people who combine creativity with technical know-how. Free and subscription-based platforms such YouTube, Skillshare and Behance bring together like-minded individuals, and these online communities can also offer a solution to the feeling of isolation that some may feel typically after leaving university.

7. Balancing ideas vs production

It is important to note that “It is not always about technical production” says Gary, as producing groundbreaking, light-bulb-moment ideas is at the heart of any final product. As technology becomes more accessible, the notion that anyone with the right equipment can do x, y or z means that creativity and ingenuity risk being downplayed when these are the things, says Gary “that should be singing out”. It is ideas that truly sustain longevity in the creative industries, not the products that are derived from them.  

8. Embracing creative competitiveness   

For some, being creative and being competitive do not feel compatible, but the most successful people within the industry learn how to embrace both qualities, says Gary. The competitiveness of the industry is what will drive you to develop a distinctive style and make you stand out. Getting what you want, and to where you want to be, is about harnessing your creativity and using it to achieve both personal and professional progress.

9. Communication and building connections  

“With the way the industry works, especially the design industry, it is important to have a realistic view of what it is like out there and how to get ahead. What is going to make you stand out?” says Gary. Mentoring can help you to work this out, having someone who can share their experience and underline the importance of building relationships – and never burning bridges. Do not be afraid of rejection as everyone has to start somewhere, but talk to people and always seek to make a positive impression. As Gary notes: “The most fundamental thing is to have your name be remembered,” so do not hesitate to get out there and make contacts.  

10. Have your portfolio ready     

Use your time and resources to continuously develop your portfolio. Creating one is not something that should be put off or delayed until you work becomes ‘better’ – start one as soon as you can and then work to refine its contents as your skills and expertise develop. Your portfolio is there to display your talents and it should signify your growth as a creative and identify your key areas of creative interest. 

Feature image by Alexander Ignatov from Pixabay