Well, it isn't easy. Maybe it isn't restricted to the design industry, maybe everyone has problems, but anyone who could share some light in the issue would certainly be welcome if there are any parallels.
I have been thinking about it lately, because of the following message that I received from a friend...
Quote: My problem is that I've been trying to get into some type of design field ever since I left college in 2001 and without any work experience it is impossible to break into it.
And which makes it more impossible, is the amount of years that has passed since I left college. I've been working in reprographics and printing since I got to the UK. Not great for trying to get in to the design field, but needed an income.
I have tried doing some freelance design work, but yet again experience played a big role.
I am now trying to get into DTP to use that as a stepping stone into the field, but I'm unsure and my confidence has taken a big knock.
The experience thing is really getting to me, as I realise how important it is but how are you suppose to get experience if you can't get a break. We all have to start somewhere, right?
I keep thinking that there is probably kids just leaving college with a more impressive CV's than me, so why would anyone consider me, a person who has left college 5 years ago still trying to get into design and has next to nothing experience? |
My problem is the opposite. I don't have any relevant degrees, only a diploma in interior design (pretty useless in hindsight, because I never really used it). All I have is experience, bordering on 20 years of it in fact, not that that makes any difference.
How does one overcome the quandry regarding qualifications and experience? I am noticing more and more these days that there are so many companies wanting qualifications accompanied with experience. It is a prerequisite even in reed job searches...
- tick this box if you have a degree.
- tick this box if you have so many years of experience.
How does one break into the field if there are so many entry restrictions and how does one get into the field if they have one entry requirement, but not the other on their CV? More and more people are applying for jobs and more and more people aren't even getting a foot in the door. I have even noticed that jobs applied for don't even respond anymore, because they have so many applications to sort through - most of the ones tossed out are probably extremely capable, they just aren't given a chance.
There are such big divisions between the different aspects of the industry that once you get into a rut, it is impossible to break out of it. Even if one was willing to start from the bottom and work their way up for a pitiful salary, it is virtually impossible. In my experience, there is no way that moving from reprographics, to DTP, to design is ever going to work. I'd do it myself if it did.
Are there too many people applying for limited positions in the market, why should qualifications and experience make a difference. Design principles are important, but in all honesty, design isn't rocket science. Why do some people make it and others don't get a chance to prove themselves?
What criteria are companies looking for before they give people an apportunity to prove themselves?
Please feel free to discuss this opinion in the forum.
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