Expert: Gianina L. - 9/16/2004

Question
I think I have answer for myself, I can make good living working for company, I reject several offers, although I still need to go to many intervicew.  Today I had very good contact with a potential client, that is a really big landscape design project, if I am going to get that job, I will have opportunity to get more custom home projects.  

My dream is to design architecture, interiors and landscape all together, nobody done that, I want to be the first one.  Life is too short, I don't know anyone, and I don't have strong background, but I am willing to give it a try, what do you think?


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Followup To
Question -
I want to pursue my dream, so I start my own design service, I enjoy doing design work, but connect with right clients is very hard.  Most of people do not respect my design work, no matter what I say, they only concern about price, some people cheated me, some ignored me.  I only have few pleasant experience, the rest are all nightmares.  I spend lots of time and energy search for clients, extra long meeting, study, research… the rewards is so little.  I am a sensitive person, I cannot be super sales.  

After few months of working alone, I totally lose energy, I think about working for company again, the life is much simple there.   

What is wrong when I work for myself? I believe I always think positive. Can you analyze me and give me direction?

Answer -
Dear JJ,

   First, let me start by saying there is nothing wrong with you. Second, you should be proud of yourself for having the courage to pursue a dream. Not everyone is brave enough to venture out into that cold, unforgiving world of self-employment. Now, when it comes to doing design work for money, or any creative work for that matter, you can't expect clients to necessarily respect the work. This is business; it's all about the bottom line. A client has to fill a void in the most efficient, cost-effective way possible. Granted, I don't want to make all people out to seek design work sound like heartless art-grabbing robots. Many love design, and when you find those special individuals, you can hope for a very rewarding working relationship. However, keep in mind that designers, illustrators, and all artists alike have rights, and if you find a client violating these, find methods to rectify the situation. If it is a serious situation, consider seeking legal advice. Always work with a contract to protect your rights and to keep all details, including payment, clear for all jobs. If you don not already own the Graphic Artists Guild's Handbook of Pricing and Ethical Guidelines, wrap your sweet hands around a copy as soon as possible. It is an invaluable resource to anyone in the business.
   Now, I notice you mention your dislike for the extensive time you spend speaking with clients, meetings, and research and that you cannot be “super sales.” Although I sympathize - this aspect of freelancing may be on my list of least favorite things to do, behind mopping and going to the dentist  – but networking, client interaction and promotion are large aspects to the design world that cannot be avoided whatsoever. You can consider hiring someone more tailored to the sales profession to do your client research and acquisition, or look at alternative means of advertising. Put yourself in the yellow pages, or a design annual, or do a direct mailer to your community. Research and brainstorm for ways to creatively promote your work in a way that's attention grabbing and more entertaining for yourself. If, at the end of the day, you feel completely unrewarded and unsatisfied, maybe working on your own isn't really what you want.
   Keep that positive attitude of yours high and dry and smiling. The road will be long and bumpy, but rewards come to those who strive for it. Never be afraid to admit you may need a change, though. Working for a company is no less admirable of a living and can offer many benefits such as insurance, a steady paycheck, and retirement plans. Use your logic and sense to pick the right path, but I'm also a strong believer of following your gut. Sometimes that tiny little voice inside whispering opinions may have a point. If you do find that self-employment as a designer isn't for you, do not, at all costs, consider yourself a failure! So many never live long enough to discover what they truly want, and many more still never bother looking. You have taken an active role in your career and life, and that is something to be proud of, no matter the outcome.

Much luck!!!
Gianina


Answer
Hello JJ,

    Well, seems like you are already excited about this contact, and since it seems to be in the arena you want to work, it could lead to future work in that same area. Actually, looks like I don't need to answer a question here. I think you have already answered it yourself. With or without a strong background, you have to begin somewhere. Every book has a first page. Take classes, read books, do internet searches, and locate professionals in your area of interest to fill up any holes and to continue to grow creatively. You're right, life is short, and if you're following your heart, then more power to you! The best we can do with anything is try. Good luck and I wish you the absolute best!