1. Master the Art of Adaptability
   Media behemoths are akin to living entities—incessantly metamorphosing. The linchpin to advancement is adaptability—a professional finesse to recalibrate your work ethos vis-a-vis the prevailing industry contours.
   • Action Steps:
     • Keep abreast of industry trends such as the rising predominance of streaming services, which, of course, have seen massive surges in subscribers throughout last year, as per a report by Statista.
     • Acquaint yourself with emergent tools and platforms like TikTok, which saw an astronomical user growth of 75% in the US alone, as reported by Forbes.
     • Dabble in lateral skill augmentation like video editing if you’re a writer, or SEO basics if you’re a designer to stay relevant.
2. Establish a Strong Internal Network
   A robust internal network is an unsung hero in large media conglomerates. Knowing the right individuals could be a game-changer—catapulting you from middle management to a leadership echelon.
   • Action Steps:
     • Be a regular at inter-departmental rendezvous.
     • Pinpoint mentors and allies within the corporate ecosystem.
     • Lend your expertise to internal ventures or campaigns that resonate with your career aspirations.
3. Showcase Measurable Results
   The media domain is staunchly results-oriented. Your performance metrics are your staunchest allies. It’s pivotal to quantify your contributions—transcending generic claims of enhancing social media engagement to showcasing a quantifiable uptick in user interactions over a month or quarter, corroborated by data from platforms like Google Analytics.
   • Action Steps:
     • Harness analytics apparatus to meticulously track and evaluate your projects.
     • Render your insights in user-friendly formats like graphs or dashboards.
     • Broach your metrics during performance appraisals.
4. Focus on Soft Skills
   While technical acumen can secure an entry, soft skills are your ticket to climbing the corporate ladder. Proficiencies in leadership, communication, and problem resolution often tip the scales in favor during promotional considerations.
   • Action Steps:
     • Enroll in workshops or courses to hone your soft skills.
     • Exhibit these competencies in team environments and under high-stress scenarios.
     • Solicit feedback from peers and superiors regarding your interpersonal efficacy.
5. Be Your Own Advocate
   Don’t bide your time for opportunities; carve them out. Express your ambition, but ensure you embody the requisite skills and traits for elevated roles.
   • Action Steps:
     • Engage in dialogues about your career objectives with supervisors.
     • Shoulder projects that are aligned with your envisioned career path.
     • Relentlessly update your portfolio to mirror your evolving skill set.

In a media corporation, a melange of specialized skills, networking acumen, and a results-driven approach can be the jet fuel for your career advancement. Armed with these strategies, you’re not merely navigating the corporate labyrinth—you’re mastering it.

At the heart of this expansion is the role of the video game writer, a profession steadily gaining recognition for its integral contribution to game development. This article provides an overview of the role, the skills needed to excel, and a practical guide for those seeking to enter the field.

Understanding the Role: From Concept to Postproduction

A video game writer plays a significant role throughout the game production process, encompassing conception, preproduction, production, and postproduction.

Conception

In the earliest stages of game development, video game writers partner with design teams to shape the game’s genre and structure. The writing scope varies greatly, with narrative-intensive genres like role-playing games requiring considerably more writing input than action games. Thorough research and creative brainstorming become fundamental in this phase to set the groundwork for the narrative.

Preproduction

Once the game type is established, writers delve into crafting character backgrounds, overarching storylines, and level overviews. They also create intricate flowcharts outlining possible actions and different story paths, setting the stage for a multifaceted gaming experience.

Production

During production, video game writers create dialogue for cutscenes, texts for quests, and any additional writing material. In narrative-centric games, they often collaborate with directors and voice actors during recording sessions, further influencing the game’s storytelling.

Postproduction

The postproduction phase involves meticulous proofreading and game walkthroughs by the writer, ensuring narrative coherence and gameplay satisfaction. Changes or additions may be made to the text, allowing for iterative refinement before the game’s release.

Essential Skills for Video Game Writers

To excel in this field, one must possess certain skills beyond a passion for gaming.

1. Writing: A strong foundation in narrative storytelling and creative writing is crucial. It shapes the game’s immersive experience and can often be the difference between a good and a great game.
2. Game playing: Understanding gameplay mechanics and player behavior is key. A good video game writer should anticipate player decisions and responses, enabling them to weave interactive and engaging narratives.
3. Collaboration: Unlike conventional scriptwriting, video game writing is collaborative. Writers must be comfortable working in a team, merging their creative vision with that of designers, artists, and programmers.
4. Coding: Basic coding knowledge and/or familiarity with game design processes can be immensely beneficial. This skill bridges the gap between the narrative and technical aspects of game development.

How to Become a Video Game Writer

Many successful video game writers begin their careers as freelancers before securing full-time positions at game studios. To build a rewarding career in game writing, follow these steps:

1. Pursue Relevant Education: A bachelor’s degree in scriptwriting or creative writing can provide a solid foundation. Coursework in game design or coding can supplement your skills.
2. Build a Portfolio: Demonstrate your writing prowess by publishing short stories or creating your own games and storyboards. A strong portfolio showcases your creative range and ability to apply it to the gaming medium.
3. Network: Establish connections within the industry. Attending events like the Game Developers Conference or joining associations like the International Game Developers Association can provide insights and opportunities.
4. Gain Hands-on Experience: Look for entry-level positions or internships in game-related fields. Working on indie games with small teams can offer valuable hands-on experience and insights into the entire game production process.

The realm of game writing offers many opportunities for aspiring content creators. As the gaming industry continues to explore new frontiers of interactive storytelling, video game writers play a vital role in shaping these narratives and providing players with unforgettable experiences.

Developing Your Style

As with any form of writing, developing a unique and compelling voice is integral in game writing. Whether you’re writing an epic fantasy adventure, a chilling horror mystery, or an introspective indie game, your voice sets the tone and mood. Dive into various genres, experiment with dialogue and narrative forms, and continually refine your style.

Understanding Your Audience

Understanding your target audience is as crucial in game writing as in any other medium. Knowing what your player wants, their expectations, and their gaming habits can significantly influence your storytelling style. Is your audience seeking a light-hearted, casual gaming experience or a profound narrative that provokes thought? Your narrative should cater to these expectations while providing enough surprises to keep them engaged.

Embrace Interactivity

The interactive nature of video games sets them apart from traditional media. Leverage this to create more engaging stories. Give your players choices that impact the storyline, craft compelling characters they can relate to, and design worlds that they will want to explore. Embrace the medium’s interactivity, and allow your players to become active participants in your narrative, rather than passive recipients.

Continual Learning and Adaptation

Video games are a rapidly evolving medium. New technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and advances in artificial intelligence (AI) continually reshape the landscape of possibilities for game narratives. Staying updated on these trends and learning how to adapt your writing to them is crucial for a successful career in game writing.

Wrapping Up

Game writing is an exciting and challenging domain. The writer’s role in the video game industry is a blend of creativity, technical skill, and a deep understanding of the medium and its audience. With the industry’s ongoing expansion, now is an opportune time for content creators to delve into this vibrant field.

The journey to becoming a successful game writer requires dedication, continuous learning, and an undying passion for games. Yet, the reward — the opportunity to create complex, engaging worlds that players can experience and interact with — is unparalleled.

The future of game writing is full of possibilities, and for those ready to embrace its challenges, it offers a compelling arena for creativity and storytelling. It is more than just an emerging domain for content creators; it’s a field that’s ripe with opportunities to redefine the boundaries of narrative and interactive experiences. So, are you ready to play?

A New Dimension to Design

• Beyond Two-Dimensional Space Traditional graphic design has mostly been confined to two-dimensional spaces. AR, however, introduces a third dimension to design. This added depth allows designers to create immersive experiences that engage users on multiple levels. For instance, with AR, a poster can come to life with moving graphics or a 3D model that users can interact with.
• Spatial Awareness Augmented reality is inherently spatial – it understands and responds to the environment’s geometry. This means that graphic elements in AR are not just static images; they can react to the world around them. For example, an AR-infused logo could react to the viewer’s proximity or orientation, creating a dynamic and personalized branding experience.

Revolutionizing Branding and Advertising

• Interactive Campaigns Brands are using AR to create marketing campaigns that are interactive and engaging. By overlaying digital content onto the physical world, companies can provide consumers with an immersive experience that transcends traditional advertising methods. For instance, a customer might scan a product’s packaging with their smartphone to unlock an AR experience, such as a 3D model of the product or an interactive game.
• Personalized Experiences AR enables brands to offer personalized experiences based on user data and preferences. For instance, an AR application might use a user’s location data to offer location-specific content or use facial recognition to tailor content to the user’s emotions.

Enhancing Education and Training

• Interactive Learning Materials Educational institutions and companies can use AR to create interactive learning materials. For instance, a textbook could come to life through AR, allowing students to interact with 3D models and animations that reinforce learning.
• Skill Development for Designers For professionals in the graphic design industry, AR offers a new set of tools and skills to learn. Understanding AR technologies, 3D modeling, and programming can make a designer more versatile and valuable in the job market.

Streamlining Collaboration

• Virtual Design Spaces AR enables remote teams to collaborate in virtual spaces that mimic physical environments. For example, designers could use AR glasses to interact with a shared 3D model, annotate it, and see each other’s changes in real time.
• Client Presentations Presenting designs to clients through AR can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the concepts. Clients can interact with the designs, providing immediate feedback and fostering a more collaborative relationship.

Challenges and Considerations

• Technological Limitations Although AR holds immense potential, it’s also subject to technological limitations such as device compatibility, processing power, and battery life. These constraints can sometimes hinder the full realization of an AR graphic design project.
• Ethical Considerations As with any technology that collects user data, there are ethical considerations surrounding privacy and data security. Designers must consider these concerns and employ best practices to ensure user trust.

Augmented reality is undeniably reshaping the landscape of graphic design by adding depth, interactivity, and personalization. While there are challenges and considerations to be considered, the opportunities for innovation are immense. For professionals in the media industry, staying abreast of AR technologies and honing relevant skills is vital for career advancement and contributing to the evolution of graphic design.

As the lines between the physical and digital worlds continue to blur, the role of the graphic designer is expanding. Those who embrace augmented reality as a tool for creativity and communication will find themselves at the forefront of a transformative wave in design. Incorporating AR into graphic design not only enhances the way we engage with content but also has the potential to redefine the very nature of visual communication.

Graphic designers and media professionals should consider investing time in understanding the technical aspects of AR, collaborating with experts in the field, and experimenting with new design approaches. Through innovation and adaptation, augmented reality can be a powerful medium for telling stories, creating immersive experiences, and connecting with audiences in novel and meaningful ways.

In the years to come, as AR technology becomes more advanced and accessible, it is expected to become an integral part of the graphic design process. From branding and advertising to education and collaboration, AR promises to enrich the graphic design landscape with endless possibilities.

By staying informed, adaptable, and open to innovation, graphic designers and media professionals can harness the potential of augmented reality to create a more dynamic, engaging, and transformative visual landscape for all.

Create, and the work will speak for and sell itself. That’s the dream, right? Maybe so. But the reality is that work can’t do everything. The most successful artists, musicians, makers, and creatives rely on solid marketing to build their brands, sell their products, and land new clients within their respective industries. If you’ve yet to create a real marketing strategy, now’s the time.

Marketing on social media has proven to be one of the best tactics for creative job seekers. From how many people you can reach to how easy it is to create and share unique content that goes viral, social media is a sure bet for starting your marketing journey and showcasing your work. 

Use the following guide to plan and execute a successful social media marketing strategy that elevates your creative career.

Determine What You Want To Use Social Media For 

Many creatives get on social media and go with the flow. They don’t have any real direction, and the results they’re getting (or not getting) clearly indicate that. 

If you want to get something out of social media marketing, you need to determine what that something is. In other words, what are your social media marketing goals? What would be your ideal results from a successful social media marketing strategy? What types of clients are you hoping to attract? Which gigs are you hoping to land? 

Whether it’s brand awareness, showcasing your portfolio, creating a community, or another goal, determine what you want to use social media for and be clear about it. 

Write Out an Actual Plan 

Once you know what you want to use social media for and the ideal results you want from your strategy, it’s time to write out an actual plan. Get the details of your marketing strategy down on paper or in a digital document. 

Discuss the specifics of who you’re targeting on social media. Think about how you will present yourself on social media in order to showcase your best work. Dig into details about the platforms you’ll be on and the kind of content you’ll create for each. Detail everything you will do on social media to create the best experience for your fans and followers. 

Your plan is the roadmap you’ll follow to ensure you’re successful on social media. 

Get Into a Content Creation Routine 

Creating content is the most time-consuming part of social media marketing. You need to create a lot of it and post often to break through the oversaturation plaguing social media today. 

The thing is, you can’t just create any old content and expect it to take off. You must invest time and effort to develop high-quality, original content. A content creation routine will help you get into this habit. 

Start with designing a dedicated space for creating content. In it, you’ll be able to get into your creative “zone” much easier. Intentional colors, shapes, lighting, and accessories can all facilitate comfort, creativity, and a good mind for creation. Additionally, any photography, videography, and visuals you create will have a great backdrop. 

Once you’ve got your content studio set up, develop a routine around creating content. Choose the days you’ll focus on creating and editing content. Time block to ensure you’re getting as much as possible done during those days. And be specific about what you’re working on, and what your goals are. 

Experiment With Various Kinds of Content 

Social media isn’t a place for boring, stagnant content. Nor can you expect to stand out doing everything that every other job seeker does. It’s essential to experiment with various kinds of content for a few reasons: 

1. You need to figure out what type of content gets the most engagement from your audience, and what resonates most with the clients that you are trying to attract;
2. You need to find the content that supports who you are as a creative and brand;
3. Different types of content allow you to connect with more people. 

Experiment, and do it with conviction. Get into reels. Create a lot of video content. Shoot standout images and post them. Go live. Make infographics, polls, and surveys. Throw some written words in there. 

The key is that you create content that showcases your authentic self. While the exact type of content you create may vary, you want to make sure that your tone and the way that you present yourself online are in line with how you present yourself as a creative professional, especially if you are using social media to land a job.  

Understand Data Analytics and Use It to Your Advantage 

Data analytics is not everyone’s strong suit. But to get results from your marketing, you must understand data analytics and learn to use it to your advantage. Yes, learning about how to collect, process, and analyze social media data can be overwhelming. 

However, breaking the learning process down into digestible chunks and giving yourself time to really comprehend what you’re looking at will help. Set aside time each week to learn the analytics tools on each social media platform you’re using. 

Familiarize yourself with how to access these tools. Then, look at the data and note what you think it means. 

Taking a social media data analytics course or asking a specialist for guidance will help you leverage data even better. 

Spend a Lot of Time Engaging With Your Followers and Fans 

You can post a lot of content on social media. But if you aren’t getting any engagement on your posts, you just put in a lot of time and effort creating content that won’t get results. 

The first step is creating high-quality content that motivates people to leave comments, direct messages, and start conversations. In other words, create content that inspires action. 

When you get people to take action, ensure you’re following it up by engaging with them. Spend time responding to every comment and shoutout you get. Answer every direct message with something thoughtful. Always thank those who share your work or engage with you on live streams.

Each follower you have could be a potential client, so be sure to always put your best foot forward. At its core, social media is about meeting other people, and you can use it to network effectively if you know the right techniques. 

Think Long-Term Marketing and Campaign-Specific 

You should think about social media marketing in two ways: 

1. A long-term, ongoing strategy; 
2. Individual campaigns for specific reasons. 

You’ll need to continuously market yourself and your work for the life of your creative career. But you’ll also need to develop individual campaigns for product launches, new partnerships, upcoming shows, and so forth. Balancing both is critical. 

Sometimes you’ll have to work diligently on an individual campaign, and your ongoing strategy will take a backseat, and vice versa. This is okay. So long as the time you spend on each type of campaign eventually equals out. You’ll know you need to adjust your approach if progress stalls on either. 

Social media is one of the best places for a creative to market themselves, their work, and their brands, and can also be a major networking opportunity. Putting effort into your social media presence and marketing upfront can go a long way toward getting you to the career you want. 

As time passes and the world evolves, you must continue improving your skill set and learning the new topics that come around. It’s essential to stay relevant and keep an eye on what comes next to remain employed for the foreseeable future. This is true in every industry, including those that focus on creative endeavors, because even how you’ll create advertisements and art pieces may change over time, so you must be prepared. Here are some technical and soft skills to learn for creative job security.

In-demand tech skills for creative job security

Today is the day to start paying attention and researching the tech that is developing to fill roles once filled by humans, like artificial intelligence (AI). Some experts say that 22% of current jobs will be automated by 2030 and that up to 90% of online content may be generated by AI by the year 2025, and that’s just around the corner. 

The fact is that AI is not stopping there, either, as there are currently AI music generators that can create music that sounds like an orchestra made it. Even more amazing are the AI art programs that create masterpieces based on a simple text prompt. The point is it’s wise to learn some of the skills associated with AI technology. Take classes and learn about AI and how to use the algorithms to create your own art. 

Another option is to make a stronger effort to humanize your work in ways that an AI computer program cannot. For instance, AI will never be able to add emotions like jealousy, anger, and depression into the work. Try incorporating feelings into your art pieces to stay ahead of the curve. 

In addition to AI, there are other forms of tech worth learning about, such as augmented and virtual reality. Both of these innovations transport users to realistic worlds from the comfort of their living rooms. If learning these topics seems a little too daunting at first, then at least look into graphic design and learn the techniques necessary to create amazing websites and design elements that will likely interest creative companies in the future. Once you see potential jobs that require these talents, you can apply for them with confidence.

Soft skills for creative job security

While technical skills can fill a resume, developing the soft skills you can’t learn in school will always be important because they make you a more well-rounded employee. One of them is the ability to manage yourself during your daily activities. Many creative fields require you to be alone for hours as you complete your work, sometimes in a remote capacity. If you can be counted on to complete your tasks without micromanagement, there’s a good chance you’ll have security in your job.

You’ll also need to be able to work as a valued team member. Major creative projects can be a considerable undertaking, and there will be times when everyone must do their part for the common good. Your team needs to know you won’t butt heads and try to force your vision upon everyone else. 

If you do disagree or think the project should go in a different direction, team members should also know you’ll discuss it in a logical and relaxed fashion. This is essential. When people don’t want to work around you, you may not be employed long-term.

Although there will always be a lot of change and new projects to tackle, you must also hone your ability to manage your anxiety. In many cases, an office environment can drive anyone up the wall. Use your senses to put yourself at ease. If the sound gets you, consider sound therapy with a sound machine. Maybe, socializing with a coworker or the touch you feel during a hug can put your mind in a better place. Learn to self-soothe, and you’ll be better equipped to get through tough times.

Skills that can help your company

The management at your company also realizes that the world will evolve as the years go by and that they will need to withstand the storm of change. They need your help and skills to stay relevant and competitive. 

For instance, you’ll need the ability to think critically and resolve problems you face throughout the day. Even in a creative field, complex issues can arise, such as problems crafting a story or figuring out the best way to promote a finished project to the masses. There will be plenty of people at your job who will give up when they face adversity, so if you’re the one who can come up with a solution, you’ll forever be valuable to a company.

You’ll also need to do your part to ensure that the company stays safe and secure regarding cybersecurity because the threats will only worsen over time. Be sure to learn about common threats like phishing and Wi-Fi scams to catch an issue before it jeopardizes your company. If you’re in charge of creating a website for your company or a client, understand and implement website cybersecurity protocols such as encrypting data and using secure sockets layer (SSL) encryption.  

You also need to use smart passwords and avoid reusing the same password for multiple systems because a hacker can cause major havoc by learning that code. Consider using a passphrase, which is a string of words or a combination of letters and numbers that’s nearly impossible to guess.

The bottom line is that there’s much to learn if you want to stay relevant in a creative industry, but it’s well worth the effort for a long and lustrous career. Consider these tips and be ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

We get it. Applying for a job is no easy task. It can take hours to find a job that looks like a good fit, fill out an application, edit your resume, rewrite your cover letter, and send it all to the employer. If you’re going to apply for a job well, you’re going to have to edit your resume for just about every job you apply to. And then the beautiful day of validation comes when you finally receive that email or phone call asking you to come in for an interview. Your hard work has paid off and apparently, you did something right to be able to stand out from the crowd and land yourself an interview. So it can be frustrating when you take the time to find a job that seems like a great fit, put in the work for applying and interviewing, and then wait and wait only to hear complete radio silence from the company. Why is that?

Well, there are many reasons, actually.

• It may be that your interviewer loved you, but they need to convince their team to love you too. It’s often the case that several people need to approve the hire in order to move forward and it can be difficult to get answers from every person on the team. One person may be swamped with meetings while another may be on vacation.

• Sorry to say it, but you may be the company’s second choice to fill the position. There might still be a chance for you, but only if they can’t have their #1 choice, so they may be stringing you along until they know for sure whether or not you’ll be needed.

• HR and salary negotiations are tying up the works. You may have set a salary expectation that was above what the company was initially prepared to offer. This may not mean you’re getting a “No,” but it will mean that your hiring manager will have to pull some strings.

• Even if the hiring managers view you as a strong candidate, there will be other interviews. That being the case, it may be out of the manager’s control as to when the interviews take place and how fast they’re able to be completed.

• The hiring team is dotting their i’s and crossing their t’s. It can also take a lot of time to contact each of a candidate’s references, perform background checks, and waiting for results to come back before making any final decisions. They may be just as eager to make a decision as you are to start your new job, but until these things are done, they may refrain from leading you on just in case it doesn’t work out.

Of course, every candidate, hiring team, and company will be different which can lead to thousands of scenarios for why you haven’t heard back from a company yet. That being the case, there is a way you can use this time to your advantage to reassure the hiring team of your interest in the position and your potential as a candidate.

Be sure to also check out this blog post on 9 Passive Aggressive Phrases To Avoid In Email (And What To Do, Instead)

Send an initial thank you note after your interview

First of all, immediately following your interview, you should always send a thank you note. Not only is it polite and will help you stand out to your interviewer, it’s sometimes even expected as a regular part of the process by some hiring managers. 

Connect with your interviewers on LinkedIn

Now you might feel weird or like you’ll come off as overly eager if you seek out our interviewers on LinkedIn and make a connection. To be honest, it probably depends on how your interview went and the relationship you were able to build in the short time that you met with them. That being the case, go with your gut, but remember that it’s ok to step out of your comfort zone, especially during a job search, from time to time. With your connection request, send a short and simple note that reads something like,

Hi __[Interviewer Name]__,

I had a great time meeting with you today talking about the ____ role and how I would be able to help with _____ and ______. Just thought it might be useful to connect here on LinkedIn as well. Have a great day!

__[Your Name]____

Again, this will probably be something that you want to soon very soon after your interview to reinforce name and face recognition with your interviewer. It could also be a great way to let them know of skills and past work experience that may not have come up in the interview!

But if you’ve been waiting a long time to hear back and feel like you should follow up after your interview…

One of the best things you can do is write a short and simple email to your hiring manager. You don’t need to be afraid of them feeling annoyed that you followed up if it’s been at least a week since your interview (which is how long we recommend waiting before following up). They’ll understand that you’ve been waiting and they may even like to see that you’re still interested in the position and showing initiative.

Your follow up email doesn’t need to be overly formal or long-winded (after all, if they haven’t gotten back to you by now, chances are they busy and have enough on their schedule as it is).

Here’s an example that you can use and tweak for your own post-interview follow up email:

Hi _________,

I really enjoyed meeting last week and I want to reiterate how excited I am about the __[specific position]__ role and the possibility of working for __[Company Name]__. If there’s anything else I can send you that would help you in your hiring decision, just let me know. 

Thanks again,

___________

Again, feel free to tweak this, mention a specific conversation you had, or even specific projects or references you could pass on. That being said, do your best to keep it simple. Your email doesn’t need to be any longer than a few lines in order to get the point across that you’re still interested and eager to hear an update.

Don’t stop your job search

One last time while you’re waiting to hear a response from the job you’re excited about is this: don’t quit your job search. Even if you feel like the interview went swimmingly and like the hiring manager “made it really obvious” that they wanted to hire you, a job offer isn’t concrete until it’s in writing. Sometimes, all it takes is for a reference to say something that makes the hiring manager second-guess their choice or the company may decide to switch their pursuits at the last minute and the decision may have nothing to do with you at all. Either way, you don’t want to be left empty-handed because you put all your eggs in the same basket. Pursue the jobs you’re excited about and hopeful for, but keep looking in the meantime.

There are few greater blessings than the ability to earn a living doing what you love. For creative professionals, though, cultivating a lucrative and fulfilling career isn’t always easy. When building a creative career, you must strike the right balance between professionalism and inspiration. You have to find a way to approach your work as a job and self-expression. The good news, though, is that there are things you can do each day to help you find the delicate balance you need to thrive, both professionally and artistically. Here are some strategies you can use to build a daily routine that will help you prepare for your job search.

Creating the Perfect Physical Space

No matter your particular creative field, one of the first and most important things you can do as you prepare to launch your career is to create a physical space that promotes excellence. The right space can not only help you find the inspiration you need to be creatively productive each day, but it can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which is also essential for creators.

Indeed, there’s a strong and immediate link between your physical environment and your mental health, so it’s critical that you take care to create an ideal workspace. You will want to ensure, for example, that your space is inviting and well-appointed without being cluttered.

If your space is overflowing with stuff, or if it’s so poorly organized that you can’t find what you need when you need it, you’re going to be both stressed and unmotivated. You might find yourself making excuses to avoid spending time in your workspace, which is also likely to mean you’re finding excuses not to create.

On the other hand, if you have a workspace that is orderly and inviting, one that is a pleasure to spend time in, chances are you’ll want to be there as much as you can. And when you’re there, you’re more likely to be creating.

The key here is to cultivate a space that inspires you. To be sure, you will want to equip it with everything you need to do your creative work, ensuring that your materials are well-organized and easy to access when you need them.

But in addition to these more utilitarian considerations, you’ll also want to focus on the mental and spiritual aspects of the space. Create a dedicated work environment that makes you feel happy, safe, and inspired. Infuse it with objects that give you joy and comfort. Use a color palette that ignites your creativity. And outfit it with textures and lighting that set the perfect mood for your creative endeavors.

Building Self-care and Creative Rituals

The life of an artist is a life that is deeply rooted in newness, in innovation. But that doesn’t mean that rituals and routines don’t have their role. In fact, rituals can play a crucial role in the work of a creator, just as they often do in the lives of elite athletes.

From wearing a lucky sweatshirt when you’re engaged in a creative project to scenting the room with a favorite fragrance at the start of your workday, rituals can be highly effective for creatives. There are many possible explanations for this: for instance, rituals can provide a sense of calm, control, and confidence, all of which are essential for getting those creative juices flowing.

In addition, engaging in rituals supports mindfulness. As you engage in this ritualistic behavior, you focus your energy and attention on the minute details of the ritual, helping you get into the zone for focused creative work.

But rituals relating to your work aren’t the only ones that matter. It’s also critical to cultivate self-care rituals in order to help you keep both healthy and inspired. Maintaining healthy self-care practices, though, takes commitment as you become habituated to the practice.

That’s because true self-care is a holistic practice. It’s about optimizing wellness in your body, mind, and spirit alike. And that means cultivating a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition and hydration, quality sleep, preventative medical care, and mental health support.

For creative professionals, one of the most important, but also one of the most easily overlooked, aspects of self-care is emotional and social support. Working as an artist can be quite isolating. You may find yourself so engulfed in a project, especially if you’re working on commission, that perhaps you go days or even weeks without seeing another person.

That isolation is both unhealthy and dangerous. It can contribute to mental and physical health challenges, as well as burnout, which may rob you of your creative spark as well. That’s why it’s vital to get out of your office or studio and seepeopleevery day. Take time to socialize with friends and family on a regular basis. Your health — and your work — will benefit.

Taking Inspiration From Other Creatives

As suggested above, the life of a creative professional can be quite isolating. Even when you are with friends and family, you may find yourself at a loss as to how to convey to them what your life and work are truly like.

But you’re by no means alone. And if you want to find solace as well as inspiration, then look to other creators you admire. Learning about their experiences and their processes can be as instructive and motivating as learning about their work. You may find, for instance, that your favorite artist’s daily routine was quite similar to your own.

Paying Attention to the Practical Aspects of Your Workflow

If you’re striving to build a successful career around your creative work, then you will also need to pay attention to the more practical aspects of the job. After all, your work as a creator is an art form, yes, but it’s also a business. And that means you have to treat it like a business from building your brand to soliciting new clients and commissions to growing existing relationships.

You will want, for example, to ensure that you routinely update your creative professional resume and work portfolio. Online portfolios and digital resumes are the perfect way to highlight your experience and showcase your best work.

As a creative professional, the burden of drumming up business probably rests with you alone. And that means that you will always need to be hustling in some way. So make time to do a good bit of networking both online and in person.

Attend festivals, conferences, exhibitions, or anything even tangentially related to your work. Ensure that you have plenty of business cards with your current information, as well as the web address of your online portfolio.

In addition to maintaining a robust presence at in-person events, you can also unleash the tremendous power of the digital domain to grow your business. Social media is a superb tool for promoting your work and engaging with existing and prospective clients. You can, for instance, maintain an active presence across multiple social media platforms, particularly those most popular with your target market.

This means not only being active on your own pages but also engaging frequently on other pages. You never know who you will meet or whose interest you will draw through your engagement. And there’s no shame in providing links to your pages, website, or online portfolio when you participate on another’s social media pages, provided this isn’t prohibited by the administrators.

Perhaps the most effective way to grow your business, though, is by subscribing to a range of credible job boards, especially those dedicated to creative work. Many of these job boards allow you to customize your search and to receive job alerts by email or text when a position is posted matching your criteria.

This way, you’re able to get your resume and portfolio in front of clients who are looking for someone just like you. Perhaps even more importantly, you are able to keep your finger on the pulse of the market, identifying trends that can help you stay relevant, in demand, and inspired.

The Takeaway

The creative life is, for many, a dream life. But building a career as a creative professional takes work. It requires you to balance the artistic with the pragmatic, the inspirational with the professional. However, by embracing the daily routines that contribute to success as a creative professional, you can truly take your first and most important steps toward a long and lucrative career.

A lot is changing about the way we work and the way we apply for work in 2023. Remote work is becoming more popular, Applicant Tracking Systems are fundamentally changing the job application process, and AI is becoming an integral part of some jobs. So, if you’re looking for new opportunities this year, you might be second-guessing a lot of what you know about the job application process and asking yourself all kinds of questions, including “are cover letters still relevant in 2023?”

And rightfully so.

After all, there is a widespread belief that recruiters don’t even read cover letters. If that’s the case, why waste your time writing one, right?

Are cover letters relevant in 2023?

Many applicants think that submitting a cover letter when applying for jobs is not necessary and will likely go unnoticed by recruiters.

That’s because they view the cover letter as a summary of their resume, rather than as a complementary addition that can add value to their application.

This is reinforced by the fact that if you google “do recruiters read cover letters?” you’ll find plenty of sources claiming that cover letters are useless and that we should cut them out of the job application process entirely.

We think otherwise. Done right, cover letters can still be extremely useful in helping you land your next gig in 2023.

Here’s why:

Cover letters are still required by most employers

Most employers still require candidates to submit a cover letter when applying for jobs. While they may not have the time to read each and every cover letter they receive, they’ll definitely check out a cover letter if they’re on the fence about a candidate.

In such cases, a well-written cover letter can improve your chances of getting hired.

Not to mention, failing to submit a cover letter when it’s specifically requested in the job description will be considered a red flag and might get you disqualified.

Cover letters show dedication

When applying for jobs, most candidates submit a very generic cover letter with minimal personalization.

By writing a thoughtful and well-crafted cover letter, you demonstrate your commitment to the job and the company.

It shows that you are willing to go above and beyond the minimum requirements of the application process and that you have a genuine interest in the position.

Cover letters can set you apart from other applicants

Sometimes, recruiters have to choose who, among several candidates with the same level of professional experience, to invite for an interview.

In such a case, submitting a cover letter can help set you apart from other candidates.

A well-written cover letter can prove to the hiring manager that you’re a skilled candidate who has taken the time to research the company and the position and is genuinely interested in the role.

Your cover letter can highlight your unique skills, experience, and achievements, all of which are reasons for the hiring manager to pick you over other candidates.

Cover letters provide additional information about the candidate

A resume provides an overview of you as a candidate, but it doesn’t provide you with enough space to go into detail about certain key parts of your career.

This is where the cover letter comes in.

Whether you have a significant career gap in your resume, you’re going through a career change, or are looking for a relocation, you can use your cover letter to explain the “why-s” behind your decisions more comprehensively.

Moreover, a cover letter is your chance to discuss your professional achievements, talk about how you gained your skills, and even let the hiring manager know just how hiring you over other candidates can benefit the company.

In short, a well-written cover letter can provide a more comprehensive and personal view of you as a candidate and complement your resume in more ways than one!

5 tips for a well-written cover letter

The bottom line is this:

A cover letter is still an essential part of any job application in 2023 and you should include one with your resume.

So, as you can imagine, your cover letter should be on par with your resume. Before you start writing your cover letter, here are a few tips to make the process easier for you:

1. Keep it short. The optimal cover letter length is between 250-400 words long, so don’t overdo it with the writing.
2. Follow submission instructions. In the job description, look out for specifics on the cover letter format (Word or PDF), or on formatting rules, such as the fonts and margins.
3. Always proofread. If there’s one mistake you should avoid at all costs is submitting a cover letter with obvious grammar or spelling mistakes. Make sure to proofread your cover or run it through an app like Grammarly letter before submitting it.
4. Be specific. You want to be as specific as possible when you’re explaining your achievements and skills in your cover letter. Instead of just mentioning specific skills, for example, explain exactly how using them can help you excel at this position. Or, instead of just saying you love the company, mention exactly what it is you love about it. 
5. Use a cover letter template. Choosing a cover letter template can save you the time and energy needed to format and personalize your cover letter. The result will look professional and modern at the same time.

Andrei Kurtuy is the co-founder and CCO at Novorésumé. He’s a Resume, CV, and Cover Letter Writing Expert. He enjoys reading, writing, and learning about creating a bridge between recruiters and job seekers, as well as improving the job application process, trends, and technologies.

While AI art isn’t necessarily new, it’s seen a recent rise in popularity thanks to apps like Dream and Lensa. These apps have become popular because they’re easy to use and affordable. Plus, they are the only ways in which AI art is being utilized. Everyone from book authors to business owners are recognizing the benefits. They can simply type what they’re looking for into an AI art generator and get a completely original piece of artwork to fit their needs.

But, not everyone is thrilled about the popularity of AI art. One of the main controversies surrounding it is that it might, eventually, become sophisticated enough to replace actual artists.

If you’re in the creative industry, you might be wondering how AI art could eventually impact your career. Thankfully, there are ways to maintain job security in a world where AI can create paintings, scripts, and more. Let’s cover some helpful tips that can offer you peace of mind as you pursue a creative career in this tech-savvy world.

Understanding How AI Works

If you truly want to maintain creative job security in the age of AI art, you have to understand how AI works – including some of its benefits. You might run into artificial intelligence applications more than you realize in your daily life. If you’ve ever talked to a chatbot on a website or used a rideshare app, you’ve encountered AI. Nearly every industry is utilizing AI in some way, from healthcare to marketing and manufacturing.

There’s no denying that certain aspects of AI could eventually “take over” tasks that are done solely by humans today. On one hand, that reduces the risk of human error. On the other hand, it could leave millions of people without jobs.

Howevre, AI is only as good as its ability to learn. Without humans to “teach” it, it will never grow, advance, or learn the right patterns to do things correctly. In the creative world, the more you understand AI and its limits, the easier it will be for you to maintain job security. First, recognize that AI has certain requirements to function properly, including:

• A high-bandwidth network
• Computing capacity
• Data storage
• Strong security

Simply put, network designers have a lot to consider when they’re creating artificial intelligence programs. So, you can rest assured that AI isn’t going to completely take over the creative industry any time soon. It has a long way to go to be able to capture the characteristics of human creativity.

It’s also important to understand how AI can actually help creatives. It can take care of some of the “tedious” tasks and patterns that can actually hinder creativity. For example, AI can generate websites in minutes, while it might take humans several weeks. You can provide the data and designs and let tech do the work for you, so you can stay in the creative driver’s seat while it does more of the “mundane” work.

Furthering Your Education

One of the best ways to protect yourself from an AI takeover is to keep learning. Some people might feel reluctant to go back to school as an adult. But, furthering your education is a great way to boost your resume and become more appealing to companies and clients alike.

One of the interesting things about many creative careers is that they constantly evolve. Whether you’re a writer, a designer, or a creative director, there are things you need to know today that weren’t relevant ten years ago, and things that will be important in five years that you’re not yet doing today. AI is so effective and impressive because it learns at a rapid pace and understands how to use patterns to create something new.

While you might not be able to retain information as quickly as a machine, you can stay competitive within the industry by keeping up your education and becoming a lifelong learner.

Humanize Your Art

Whether you’re a painter, a graphic designer, an author, or a scriptwriter, there’s one thing you’ll always have that AI can never compete with – the human touch. It’s ironic that we’re living in a world filled with technology, and people are craving human relationships more than ever. Consumers want it from brands, businesses want it from their employees, and the average person wants it from their entertainment.

While AI is more than a trend, it will never be able to understand emotion – the very crux of creativity. If you’re a writer, for example, you’ll never have to worry about AI experiencing things like:

• Excitement
• Jealousy
• Anger
• Depression

However, without those emotions (and so many more), you’re not going to have a very interesting story.

If you’re a painter, there’s no denying that AI can create beautiful and unique works of art, but nothing can replace the raw emotion and meaning behind a piece created by a person.

So, while the ethical debate surrounding AI art is likely to continue, don’t worry too much about your job security in the creative industry. Keep these suggestions in mind, dedicate yourself to a life of learning, and continue to foster your passion for what you love, recognizing that your human emotions are exactly what set you apart from AI technology.

You may look at your resume as one—sometimes two—pieces of paper. But really, it’s much more than that. It’s your first chance to make a first, and hopefully lasting impression on HR professionals and hiring managers for the job you’re applying to. There’s limited space on a resume, and this doesn’t always have to be a negative thing. It can be your chance to utilize the space as best as you can. This is true, especially, for creative jobs.

Depending on the position and level, hiring managers sometimes expect a full portfolio that will enhance your application. But that doesn’t mean you can’t sell them immediately with your resume. If you’re in search of a creative job, here are some ways you can have your resume stand out.   

Use a creative template

Most of us have seen the basic Microsoft Word resume templates. Think twice before creating your resume in such word processors. Why? The answer is simple: most creative jobs require creative resumes.

Yes, hiring managers will want to see your creative work beyond your resume, but you still should think about every angle you can stand out as a candidate. Look into programs such as Canva and Adobe to ensure your creativity sparks off the page.

Communicate your voice & style

Your resume is a way to not only show your creativity, but it is a chance to immediately communicate your voice, style, and personality. What sets you apart from other creative candidates? Figure the answer to that question out—and then portray it on your resume. Sometimes your lists of accomplishments, previous jobs, and experience can’t change, but they way you creatively communicate them can.

Lean into your creative freedom and have fun designing your resume; odds are that it will shine through in a positive way as employers review your application.

Create different resume versions

So you’ve tailored your resume to communicate your voice and apply for your dream creative job. What’s next is making sure you have different versions of the document tailored to the specific jobs you’re applying for, because you may need to change the wording and/or design depending on it. Having a few versions on hand is a good idea for this reason.

Ultimately, applying to creative jobs can be more complicated than a one-click apply, but your dream role is worth the work you’ll pour into an inventive resume.