How to communicate your creative value

Advice

Whenever my parents asked me about work when I was a Graphic Designer, they would inevitably become confused at my explanations. And the more detailed my answers got, the more confused they would get.

I often left those interactions thinking “Whatever. They just don’t get it.”

Then I realized that was a major failure on my part

As creative professionals, it’s our job to not only produce amazing work, but to also articulate the value of our creative talents and services so we are not hidden in the shadows, undervalued, or overlooked.

If you’re currently feeling this way, just remember that the ability to communicate your creative value to someone only requires 3 basic things:

1. Seeing your work / your role from their perspective

2. Understanding what they already know

3. Provide the right level of detail as you fill in the gaps

Getting comfortable explaining what you do (and how you do it) to all audiences will lead to more job offers

Jamie Roberts - Creative Director & founder of Rock That Creative Job™️

I realized how important mastering these communication skills was once I began my post-college job interviews, and needed to explain to HR professionals, marketing managers, program directors, finance teams, and CEO’s the value of my worth as a creative in their organization. These skills also proved infinitely valuable when working in various design leadership roles with clients, account managers, C-suite executives, internal teams, subject matter experts, and outside partners.

Getting comfortable explaining what you do (and how you do it) to all audiences will lead to more job offers, less frustrating client/team interactions, and more satisfying creative work experiences overall.

It will also leave you feeling less like some rare, mythical creature, and more like the highly-valuable and talented design professional you are. And everyone should definitely know that––don’t you think? 😉