Finding work: Lessons learned from 2008's financial crash

MySpace was closing down in 2008, Facebook was opening up, and the world had just found the iPhone. Obama was giving Americans hope. This was a period of great flux, but it was also set against the backdrop of a global recession.

It was a period of poor haircuts and poor sartorial choices for me, and it was also the worst time I have ever graduated. I was completely unprepared, had no contacts, and had a portfolio that wasn't nearly as polished as those who made better life decisions than me. The few studios that were hiring quickly snapped them up.

There is always an opportunity in every crisis, and I was able use the lackluster job boards and design roles as the motivation to get started on my own business. I built a portfolio of work that was not limited by briefs, using the time I had between rent-paying, soul-sucking day jobs. This allowed me to build a brand and make connections, eventually becoming a well-known name in the industry.

When the recession ended, I no longer needed to take a job as a junior at a studio. I had already won enough work and built up my business to the point that I was able to move out of my mom's home and continue my career. The recession, whether you're just out of university, a mid-weight, or a veteran who's been redundant, could allow you to take a step back and reflect, so you can use the extra time to work on something you have always wanted to do.

Gordon Reid, founder, Middle Boop

There are many parallels between 2008 and the current economic situation. While I fully understand that paying your bills is your primary priority, there is still productive work you can do with as little time as possible, especially for those who are just starting out in the job market. These are some suggestions that might be helpful:

Do not be afraid to approach people

We are a friendly bunch of creatives, despite what people might say. This is the perfect time to reach out and see if there is anyone whose work you admire, or if they are working in a field that interests you. Ask questions and get in touch.

It is easy to get caught up in the trap of looking on job boards and sending CVs to recruiters. This should be your minimum requirement, especially in the market you are in. You can be creative in how you approach people. Linkedin is a great tool to connect with anyone.

Although I would recommend starting with an email, don't be afraid of reaching out to people to arrange a call or face-to-face meeting for socially distant individuals (whenever it's possible). You've managed to meet someone, even if it doesn't happen immediately, and you are well prepared for when work is required.

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Start to implement the idea that you have.

It is the hardest part about starting a self-initiated venture. It takes drive and focus to put aside the time and effort to create an idea that you are passionate about. When it is just as easy to finish another Netflix series, that's what will make the difference between something succeeding in the first year and growing well. This is especially true for those who have been laid off or made redundant. You now have time to build. You will be able to stand out from other candidates for the same role by having a great personal project. It could also help you get some online recognition, awards, and press. These kinds of things can make your career move in a different direction.

My last big one was the Weird World Cup beer mats based around the Russia World Cup. My partner and I needed to take a break from our client work and do something that could help others. Although it wasn't always easy for our clients, we put in a lot more hours before, during, and after regular work. However, we were able to raise thousands of dollars for charity and get international recognition. Since then, the project has been a lot of fun for us.

How to stand out

This article is written by someone who has worked in the industry for a while. You will be able to see how many studios receive inquiries and the importance of standing out.

Do your research before you email a studio. Make sure you know a little bit about the company. Talk about the studio's great work, learn some names. It's not difficult, but it makes a big difference to the person receiving the message. Every week I receive a lot of emails from people looking to connect for different roles at different seniority levels. Emails that begin with 'hi there' and 'to whom it may concern' are thrown out. It's easy to find me and I think it's a mistake. Send studios something that makes you stand out. Over the years, we've received everything from t-shirts to footballs to zines and stickers. All that stuff was kept safe and we have received calls or emails from all those who sent it.

Live and breathe the change you are making.

It's always a good idea to step away from your screen and consider whether a change of direction is beneficial. You could learn Shopify animation to help you in your job search, or it could be a complete reversal of your role. For example, I made the conscious decision to leave advertising behind a few years back and remarket my studio so that I could directly develop startup brands. It was hard work, including the hiring of a new business consultant as well as many meetings about positioning and direction.

You have to believe it and live it. Learn the new design language and technical terms. Read up and absorb as much as you can. You can then tell others about your new pivot with confidence if you have a folio. It's amazing how much work can be done by simply speaking in a language your friends and colleagues will understand.

Be persistent

These suggestions won't bring you results in a matter of hours. My changes and pivots took years of hard work, in addition to actual paid work. But right now, if you have the time, you should do it. Don't be discouraged by rejection. It's perfectly okay to be disappointed. You can map out your goals, the people you want, and what kind of work you would like to do. Keep moving forward. You won't waste your time, and you will definitely stand out from thousands of others who aren't following their path.

It is extremely difficult right now. Half of designers are worried about how the run in to the end of the year will affect them. It can look bleak but to a point money comes and goes. This is especially true in this industry. You can't get your time back. You will never get your time back if you have more time than you want. Use my tips to make the most of it. These tips could be a great investment when there are more opportunities. You can also use this time to create the idea you have always wanted. Your dedication and time will take you places that you never imagined.