Leveraging My Network
Well, this one is going to be easy.
I'm already working for the two people who I would love to have in my network. Sharon and Andy Azula have both worked in advertising their entire lives. Their connection network is extensive and their knowledge-base is the exact one that I want to tap into. They can ONLY think of products in terms of market size, and hearing them pitch their ideas to potential investors has shown me exactly what pieces to have in place to sell something.
Its fun to watch them learn human-centered design from me, while I learn about brand strategy, values, language guidelines, marketing strategies, and then get to incorporate their notes in real time.
Because I've been working so closely with them, I can feel my instincts start to get stronger. Many times (not all the time), I will mock up a design or element of the website, social media, etc. Then, right before I show it to Andy or Sharon, a little bell will go off in my brain about a small adjustment that should be made. I don't make the adjustment right away, then I show it to Andy or Sharon, and they will give me the exact note that set off the little bell in my brain. Getting that acknowledgement from two people who were art directors and creative directors their entire lives makes me feel like I can actually do this.
Not only are they my mentors, but they are also so willing to involve me as part of their team. I never feel like a subordinate (even though I technically am), and I get to be involved in all aspects of the creative process. Also, knowing that they trust me to make creative decisions is so wonderful.
Sorry about posting late!
Alan
I'm already working for the two people who I would love to have in my network. Sharon and Andy Azula have both worked in advertising their entire lives. Their connection network is extensive and their knowledge-base is the exact one that I want to tap into. They can ONLY think of products in terms of market size, and hearing them pitch their ideas to potential investors has shown me exactly what pieces to have in place to sell something.
Its fun to watch them learn human-centered design from me, while I learn about brand strategy, values, language guidelines, marketing strategies, and then get to incorporate their notes in real time.
Because I've been working so closely with them, I can feel my instincts start to get stronger. Many times (not all the time), I will mock up a design or element of the website, social media, etc. Then, right before I show it to Andy or Sharon, a little bell will go off in my brain about a small adjustment that should be made. I don't make the adjustment right away, then I show it to Andy or Sharon, and they will give me the exact note that set off the little bell in my brain. Getting that acknowledgement from two people who were art directors and creative directors their entire lives makes me feel like I can actually do this.
Not only are they my mentors, but they are also so willing to involve me as part of their team. I never feel like a subordinate (even though I technically am), and I get to be involved in all aspects of the creative process. Also, knowing that they trust me to make creative decisions is so wonderful.
Sorry about posting late!
Alan
I love that there is co-teaching and learning taking place. I think this is one of the best forms of collaboration and networking when individuals can bring their respective strengths to the table and both people can be open to learning new skills. I'm biased in that I find designers the most open to learning new skills, but I think anyone can and should engage in more co-learning and teaching in their daily work.
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