mentoring for freelancers

When expectations are managed, designers can add value managing a client’s social media presence – but it’s not to be under-estimated or under-serviced. Much reputational harm can come from inactivity or the wrong activity.

We all know it’s easier to get more work from existing clients than find new clients. Here are three great examples of creatives doing just that…

The characteristics of perfectionism and imposter syndrome are common character traits in our industry. Both can negatively impact a designers mental health.

Am I a designer who writes or a writer who designs? And does it matter? Both words and images are integral to clear communication.

In a truly collaborative studio, all opinions are treated equally and with respect. Problem is, that relies on everyone sharing their opinion and that doesn’t always happen.

Step away from the computer If there is one thing  we've learnt from hosting two years of 'designerly' breakfasts in downtown Melbourne, Australia; it's the value of simply stepping away from your computer to share / talk / eat with other creatives.  As one breakfaster wrote in an email this week: for me, the breakfasts [...]

Rules for working for free Here's a story about a designer and her brother. He (let's call him Hugo) is CEO of a not-for-profit food-rescue organisation. She, (let's call her Ella), is the founder and creative director of a design firm working in the healthcare sector. It's June. Most not-for-profits are competing for end-of-financial-year tax-deductible [...]

When you have that 'stuck' feeling So it’s been nine months now since I started my new job. I only hesitate for a moment now when I’m asked where I’m from. Design Business Council nearly slips off my tongue but not quite. It’s tough after 33 years – Mackay Branson design was so much part [...]

Freelancer.com tanks. Deja vu all over again Freelancer listed with a promise to make investors rich from the gig economy Their shares initially soared, briefly valuing the business at $1 billion. In September they slipped below their 50¢ IPO price. Last week the stock closed at 46¢, equaling its lowest level since listing. This reminded [...]