How to apply for a design job—and get it!

Can't seem to land that great design job? Here's what to wear, how to act and how to make a great portfolio & resume to land the design job of your dreams!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Confidence
• A portfolio (online & physical)
• A go-getter attitude
• Design talent

1. A nice leather portfolio will last a long time and look professional. Before even applying for a design job, you need to be prepared. Preparations include creating a portfolio, setting up a portfolio website, choosing the proper attire for an interview and preparing a resume.
   
   PORTFOLIO- Depending on the design field, your portfolio should be large, but not unwieldy. You need to be able to hold your portfolio comfortably, and fit several resumes and documents inside. Keeping your resumes in your portfolio is a great way to give your interviewer a sneak peek at the first page. Make sure the portfolio is of a fine quality. Plastic, paper and canvas portfolios are inexpensive, but can appear like you don't care about the appearance of your portfolio. It is a representation of your work—make sure it looks professional.
2. Page 1 (of your portfolio)- This should be a show piece. Make it vibrant in color, texture and well balanced. Consider the job you are applying for, and shuffle things around if necessary. The piece you want the interviewer to associate you with should be first.
   
   Remaining pages- Organize your portfolio carefully. Place disperse stronger pieces throughout the weaker ones. Try to keep only a few pieces from design school if you can help it. Freelance work can help bulk up your portfolio. Provide clean and simple nameplates and short descriptions for each piece. These can be printed on your home computer. Secure them in place with low-tack tape.
3. ONLINE PORTFOLIO - Create a compelling online portfolio with links to all of your work. This is essential for a quick, at-a-glance view of your work. Sometimes, while scrolling through the newest applicants for a position, a quick click-through to an online view of your work will make your application stand out. Make sure that your site is easy to navigate, and that all of your links are functional. Include your contact information.
4. YOUR RESUME - Your resume must be clean, concise and to the point. You want to list your skills, credentials and education. Don't waste time pointing out your extra-curriculars unless they pertain to the job you are doing. For instance, being a design manager of a sports complex, you want to express your love of sports. Otherwise, leave it out. Adding some design elements to your resume is another great way to show off your skills. Utilize your design expertise to create balance, white-space, attraction and appeal. Use crisp, professional fonts blended with creative ones that reflect your style. Your resume can be a portfolio piece, too.
5. Snazzy and professional. INTERVIEW ATTIRE - When the interviewer inevitably calls you in, dress to impress! Stick with professional, clean, well-groomed and tasteful. If you want to show off your creativity, ladies can use a bright hair accessory, a colorful shirt under your suit, or some conservatively eclectic jewelry. The interviewer will appreciate your style and that touch of flair. Gentlemen- don't be afraid to break out the creative ties. A bright tie will attract just enough attention, and may set you apart from the other blue and browners.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay confident. Think about each interview question before answering.
• Be honest. You don't want to "oversell" yourself.
• Smile! A friendly smile is memorable, and can light up an interviewer's day.
• Bring your own professional-looking pen in case you need to sign anything.
• Keep your handshake firm, but not crushing. Look into their eyes and smile.
• If you are invited out to lunch, order something. Don't just sit there sipping a water. Order something light like a salad or parfait. This will give you something to chew on while pondering questions and allows you to join in the group activity.
• Try to learn something about the company you're interviewing for, so you can be armed with information and questions. When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, you will be prepared.
• Unless the interviewer asks specifically, save questions about salary and benefits until the second interview. For the first interview, it's all about how you will help the company.
• Confidence sells, not arrogance. Try to keep the swagger to a minimum.
• Be careful with the pace of conversation. Don't interrupt questions, but don't take too long to answer them.
• Be nice! Common courtesy, such as opening doors for your interviewer goes a long way. Try to be amiable.
• Don't sell yourself short. List your accomplishments, skills and techniques with pride!