It is not everyday that I find myself wanting to write up my creative process, but this weekend is one I must virtually share. I decided to do a whole rebranding, ON MYSELF. With the field of work I want to delve more into I need a signature “stamp” –as you will– to credit my work. Time and time again I have scribbled, erased, transformed, and pen tool-ed my unfortunate initials together. My old self brand was something a third-grader could type up in Microsoft Word and paste on a cut-out pentagon. What I thought was simple and clean was not showcasing my design capabilities as well as I hoped. So I forced myself to stop revamping my resume and focus on the singular design I had placed so obscurely within. I am applying to digital design positions, my brand did not express confidence or skill in any form. If you, like my yesterday self, wish to do a self-rebranding, here are my tips and woes on the matter:
Decide on a Color Scheme
Source: www.tumblr.com
- First and form most, think of how you want employers to see you. Color is the first nonverbal signal you send off. I have learned colors can indicate desired traits or unprofessionalism. Stay away from bright or illegible colors, such as: neon green, bright yellow, or highlighter magenta. Said colors give off an immature/amateur attempt.You also do not want potential employers to have to squint to read your phone number. Stick with neutral colors for at least 50% of your design. That will make the single color you pick, pop. If you want to imply you are a loyal and trustworthy worker use blue, determined and productive use orange, positive and energetic use yellow, a risk taker and passionate use red, or inspiring and dignified use purple.I decided to go with the classic blue black combination. Blue plays on all the years I spent with each organization or company I was hired into and black, well nothing will ever be the NEW black. My color scheme is easy to work with on my resume and express professionalism.”You can trust chur girl with your ad ideas. I am here and here to stay!”
Research but Don’t Research TOO Far
Source: www.hercampus.com
- The internet is a fascinating realm with a black hole effect. You can go into it looking for that solid chicken recipe to impress your new beau then three hours later find yourself trapped in a vortex of puppy videos. “What was I looking for again?”….. I say, before searching self-branding inspiration, restrict yourself to a few searches and try to stay clear of over-searching your own base design -whether that be your initials or your full name. See what is out there so you can emphasis on originality, but do not get consumed in seeing what your niche has created. The web holds some of the most innovative, and subpar, designs you can imagine and that is all you need to know. Limit your wifi time then get to work!
Doodle Doodle and Doodle Some More
Source: PandaWhale
- Doodle an entire page, doodle an entire book, doodle till your fingers cannot doodle any more! Drawing out every single one of your visions will help heat up the creative juices. Scribble, slash, go through with the minimal designs you wont bring to screen just to see what comes out. This step can take the most time but it is crucial to committing to a final product. I did not put as much effort into this step for my last logo and, as you know, I was not fond of it. The more options you give yourself the greater chance you have at finding the one design that is meant for you. That does not make sense mathematically but we all know left-brainers are squares, anyways.
Change Your Setting
Source: CollegeMagazine
- Suffering from some creator’s block? Change your surroundings. If you are distracted move to a more secluded area where your thoughts can roam in strawberry fields. If you are stumped on ideas being inside, go outside. This season is the perfect time to get nature involved in your creative process. Maybe your outdoor allergies will flare up, and the blurriness you’ll endure will bring a shape into view that you did not see 20/20. Changing your setting could be a change of scenery or it could be an addition to your current one. Invite a confidant over to your table and verbalize your blueprints. Getting an outside view early on will lead you down a clearer path. Guaranteed. No money back.
Narrow the Line-Up
Source: CBS
- This step is inevitable. Some doodles will make it pass the page’s edge and some wont. You must narrow your most desired subjects from the field of doodles. Circle and star the hell out of the ones or one you favor and send the uglies on their way. They will understand, just like Liam will.
BRING IT TO THE VIRTUAL WORLD!
Source:Reddit
- Take those special figures you brought to life and give them a digital profile. We all know nothing truly exists until we see it on a screen! Set your logos into Adobe Illustrator and sign their birth certificates. Before your know it (BAM!!) you’ll have successfully turned yourself into a brand. Use your most pleasing design on business cards, stickers, resumes, and cover letters. You are a professional now. Congrats! Now, when is happy hour?
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