How to Start a Creative Career

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Career Counseling September 25, 2019

How to Start a Creative Career

How to Make a Career Out of Creativity

Maybe you’d like to turn your creativity into a career, but jokes about starving artists make you a little nervous. In reality, it is possible to make a living while making art.
 
Whether you’re a drama student trying to figure out what to do after graduation or a professional thinking about making a career change, you can do something artistic with your life.
 
Find out how to channel your creative skills into a rewarding career.

How to Start a Creative Career

While there are many paths to developing a creative career, the first steps are often similar.  A strong foundation will help you navigate your way to success.

Use These Strategies

• Identify your goals. Figure out what kind of art you’re passionate about. You may be drawn to painting or writing fiction.
• ​​Do your research. Some creative careers pay well if you want to become an architect or marketing director. On the other hand, your prospects will probably be more limited if you want to carve penguins out of gourds. Think about your target audience and what skills you’ll need to develop.

1. Create a portfolio. Organize and promote your work. Put together samples that you can post on social media and show to potential clients.
   
2. Get a second job. You may need supplemental income at least temporarily. Look for a position related to your artistic interests or consider work that will leave you with enough time and energy to pursue your main objectives. Consider remote jobs as well. 
   
3. Plan an exit strategy. Some artists are content with a very small audience, while others begin looking for another line of work. You may want to give yourself ten years to succeed on your own terms before considering alternative options.

Being Self-Employed

According to the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Artists are 3.6 times as likely as other workers to be self-employed, with roughly 34% of all artists being self-employed between 2012 and 2016. The high self-employment rate is a consistent finding across all reports. Consider freelancing or starting your own business.

Follow These Tips

• Budget carefully. How will you deal with startup costs and fluctuating income? Monitor your cash flow and build up your savings.

1. Track your time. Without a boss expecting to see you from 9 to 5, you’ll need to take charge of your schedule. Block out time for your most important priorities and give yourself enough days off to avoid burnout.
   
2. Acquire business skills. Even if you hire an accountant and other professionals, it helps to understand the basics of financial management and customer service. Take courses at a local community college or study online.
   
3. Share moral support. Network with other artists. Enjoy opportunities to collaborate and learn from each other. Make introductions and provide referrals.

Revising Your Current Position

Smart companies value creative employees because they overcome challenges and spot promising opportunities. Regardless of your job title, you’ll be an asset if you approach your work like an artist.

Consider These Ideas

• Focus on innovation. Develop new ideas for increasing quality and saving time. Ask your coworkers for feedback and bring your proposals to your boss.

1. Produce content. Your company probably has a website and Facebook page that it would like to update more often. Volunteer to write articles, conduct interviews, or take photos.
2. Launch your brand. Pay attention to your personal brand, too. Borrow ideas from colleagues and products you admire while cultivating your authenticity.
3. Redecorate your space. Use your work environment to make a creative statement. Join the ambience committee at your company or beautify your cubicle. Choose colors that make you feel happy and productive.

Final Thought

Find work that engages your talents and imagination. Use your art to earn a living or take a creative approach to whatever career you choose.

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About the Author

Mandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes.
 
Feel free to connect with Mandy Fard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyfard/
 
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