risd career center

RISD
CAREER
ESSENTIALS
QUICK START-UP GUIDE
risd career center
CONTENTS
RISD RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
JOB HUNTING SURVIVAL PLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 –3
POSTING WORK ONLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 – 5
INTERVIEWING FOR CREATIVE JOBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 – 9
WHERE THE JOBS ARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 – 15
RISD RESOURCES
ACCESS THE CAREER CENTER’S ONLINE RESOURCES AT:
www.risdcareers.com
RISD’s Career Center is here for you after you graduate and our webpage is your source for all things career-related! You will find
direct links to ArtWorks, RISD’s online job and internship board; RISD@Delicious, our career social bookmarking resource; career
program calendars and descriptions; advice on how to find and apply for grants, residencies and fellowships; a comprehensive
entrepreneurial and freelance section; and links to our Facebook page, LinkedIn alumni group, and RISD Portfolios group. This booklet
provides you with essential information and resources to help you get started, thrive and stay connected in your professional and
creative life after RISD.
ARTWORKS
RISD@BEHANCE
http://www.risdcareers.com/jobs/students-and-alumni
ArtWorks is a searchable database designed to help RISD
students and alumni find jobs, internships, and creative
opportunities throughout the country and internationally.
Through ArtWorks you are able to perform targeted searches
for a broad range of jobs and internships, receive direct emails
about opportunites that match your interests, create a profile of
your skills and job interests for employers to view, and upload
your resume and website link for access by employers.
http://portfolios.risd.edu
Join RISD’s first centralized source for portfolios powered by
Behance and gain outstanding exposure for your work. Being a
part of the RISD portfolio community allows you to be seen by
employers searching for RISD talent. You can also seamlessly
merge your portfolio with your LinkedIn profile. To join, simply
click the sign-up button and follow the signup steps to create
your profile. Don’t forget to review both RISD’s and Behance’s
Terms of Service.
CAREER ADVISING
RISD@LINKEDIN
risdcareers@risd.edu / 401-454-6614
Consider scheduling a career advising appointment to help
refine your resume, cover letters and portfolio. Brainstorm with
a career advisor about creative opportunities and learn about
resources that can lead to valuable professional relationships and
career strategies for life after RISD. Career advising is available to
all RISD students and alumni.
http://www.linkedin.com
LinkedIn is one of the most important professional ways for
RISD alumni to stay in contact online. At LinkedIn, you can
reach out to over 5,800 alumni from around the world and
reconnect, foster professional and artistic relationships and
create career opportunities. Open to all RISD students and
alumni.
CAREER PROGRAMS
RISD@DELICIOUS RESOURCE
http://www.risdcareers.com/programs/overview
Check the career programs listed on our website for updates on
workshops, seminars, speakers, Current events will have active
links to RSVP and you’ll see our brochures and speaker updates.
Many of our programs are open to alumni.
http://www.delicious.com/risdcareers
http://www.delicious.com/risdtalent
http://www.delicious.com/risdentrepreneur
http://www.delicious.com/risdgrants
Delicious serves as our online career resource library and
is populated with thousands of links to bring you new and
interesting RISD discipline-related websites. Explore four RISD
categories of tasty bookmarks saved on Delicious: Career and
Discipline, Talent and Networking, Freelance and
Entrepreneur, and Grants and Residencies.
GRANTS, FELLOWSHIPS AND RESIDENCIES
http://www.risdcareers.com/grants/key-resources
http://www.risdcareers.com/grants/research-tools
RISD’s Career Center provides information and guidance for
a number of national and international grants, fellowships and
residencies and can provide the research tools you’ll need to
find and apply for them. Individual appointments are available to
assist in guiding your process.
RISD@FACEBOOK
http://www.facebook.com/risdcareers
If you’re career-curious, then risd/careers/ @ Facebook will
provide you with up-to-date information on our career
programs, pertinent websites, career-related articles and
more to help you follow your creative path.
1
JOB HUNTING SURVIVAL PLAN
The economy is slowly improving but it remains a competitive environment for jobs and opportunities. You may feel frustrated at
times, but don’t give up! Here are 10 steps to improve your efforts in finding, applying for and achieving the jobs and opportunities
that are right for you. Several of these tips refer to RISD’s ArtWorks and Delicious resources which can be found on our website:
http://www.risdcareers.com
1 MEET WITH A CAREER ADVISOR
RESUMES, FEEDBACK, BRAINSTORMING & MORE
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Schedule a career advising appointment and have your
resume, cover letter and materials reviewed.
Learn about career resources and how to use them to
expand your job hunting opportunities.
Discuss past experiences, challenges and issues and get
feedback that can improve your outlook.
Brainstorm new directions for your career path.
Appointments can be in person or over the phone
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2RESEARCH
OTHER CITIES & OTHER MARKETS
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Broaden your job definition: Think of places that would
benefit from the art and design thinking you have
learned at RISD.
Expand your search beyond traditional art and design
markets like New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles and
San Francisco. Consider regions of the country that are
economically stable even if it means working for a couple
of years and moving back to a larger urban area.
Research cost-of-living information at sites like
http://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator
Broaden your job definition and evaluate related markets
that could utilize your skills. Adjust language and descriptions
on your resume to reflect other career paths.
Find information on companies, people, and industries at
http://www.hoovers.com/free
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3 REFINE WHAT YOU HAVE
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RESUME, PORTFOLIO, WEBSITE & SAMPLES
Update your resume and materials with current work and
experiences. Adjust layout, presentation and information.
Visit http://www.risdcareers.com/careerresources/
handouts-and-guides for examples of cover letters, resumes
and curriculum vitae.
Target your information to specific jobs and develop multiple
versions of materials.
Broaden the description of your abilities and emphasize
transferrable skills that appeal across different jobs and
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markets. Note strengths in communication, organization,
management and work ethic.
Get your work seen and post it to RISD Portfolios powered
by Behance at: http://portfolios.risd.edu
Consider posting your work in multiple places online, a list
of key sites can be found at: http://www.risdcareers.com/
files/pdf/jobs_internships/HandoutPostingWorkOnline.pdf
4 NETWORK
ALUMNI, PROFESSIONALS & ONLINE NETWORKS
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Join RISD’s digital career connection to alumni at LinkedIn
by going to http://www.risdcareers.com and clicking on
the LinkedIn logo.
Develop profiles at other social networking sites such as
Facebook, Plaxo, Spoke and Twitter.
Use RISD’s online Alumni Directory to access 20,000+
alumni living throughout the world. Search by name, region,
major and even company. http://alumni.risd.edu
Approach alumni as mentors, ask questions about markets
and seek suggestions for contacts.
Join professional organizations like AIA, AIGA, IDSA, or
CAA to connect with others in your field. Attend trade
shows, conferences and art fairs to meet with professionals
directly and collect business cards and materials, to use for
future follow-up.
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5 BROADEN YOUR SEARCH
ARTWORKS, JOB BOARDS & DIRECTORIES
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Check out RISD’s job & internship database, ArtWorks,
several times a week for direct postings to the college at:
http://www.risdcareers.com/jobs/students-and-alumni/
Extend your search beyond Craigslist and Monster.com
to art and design specific job boards such as:
www.artjob.org (contact us for free access)
www.coroflot.com
www.idealist.org
www.creativehotlist.com, as well as sites like
www.indeed.com that search across numerous postings.
There are over 300 job links tagged by art and design
specializations in Delicious:
http://www.delicious.com/risdcareers/jobs
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Think beyond job listings and find companies where you
could work by using directories, databases and magazines.
Subscribe to publications specific to your career, and
research directories like:
http://www.designguide.com
http://www.firmlist.com
http://www.designdirectory.com
http://www.workbook.com
Browse our Delicious Resource to find numerous
directories per major and career path.
http://www.delicious.com/risdcareers/directories
Significantly increase the number of jobs you apply to and
the number of contacts you make. Instead of 10, strive for
20 or more.
Create tiers to focus your energy. Top tier are the firms
you would love to work for; tailor your materials for them.
Mid tier are good choices that will help build your resume.
Bottom tier are your back-ups and may involve less effort.
8 BE PERSISTENT
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6 BROADEN YOUR SKILLS
WORKSHOPS, CAREER PROGRAMS & GRAD SCHOOL
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Acquire technical and computer software skills you may
need through workshops or continuing education classes.
Attend the Career Center’s programs, panels and
presentations that can help improve your materials, inform
your decisions and enhance networking with professionals.
Determine if graduate school and an advanced degree may
be a necessary step for your career path.
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7 GAIN EXPERIENCE
INTERNSHIPS, APPRENTICESHIPS & VOLUNTEERING
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Explore paid internship and apprenticeship opportunities,
even after graduation, that can help get your foot in the
door and establish valuable networks. Check ArtWorks
for current internship opportunities.
Devote time to volunteering through trade shows,
fundraisers, art fairs, non-profits and other organizations
connected to your profession. Meet like-minded
individuals and create new tangents for your career.
Check out sites like http://www.idealist.org for extensive
listings of non-profit organizations, internships
and volunteer opportunities throughout the world.
Discover residency opportunities in the U.S. and abroad
for emerging and established artists at the Alliance of
Artists Communities http://www.artistcommunities.org
and Res Artis http://www.resartis.org
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EMAILS, CALLS, FOLLOW-UP & MORE
evelop a plan to contact and follow-up on job leads.
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Maintain a database and track people, contact information,
dates and responses.
Make initial contact with an email; check in with another
email in two weeks; follow-up with a call after another two
weeks. Consider a visit to the company to drop
off materials.
Try contacting 2 to 4 individuals in a firm – Principal,
President, Design Director, Assistant Directors, Project
Managers, Human Resources, etc.
Request an informational interview if opportunities
are not currently available.
Gain excellent advice for your job search at
http://aiga.org/content.cfm/get-a-design-job
Use the RISD alumni network to help you navigate
organizations.
9 ACE THE INTERVIEW
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INTERVIEW ADVICE & PREPARATION
eview tips, potential questions and advice provided
R
through our Interview Handout at:
http://www.risdcareers.com/files/pdf/jobs_internships/
HandoutInterviewCreativeJobs.pdf
Meet with a RISD Career Advisor to discuss interview
tactics and gain feedback on your interviewing approach.
If you are offered a phone or Skype interview you
should approach it the same way you would an in
person interaction.
10 EVALUATE THE OFFER
PERSONAL FINANCES, SALARIES & OTHER SOURCES
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Evaluate your financial situation; know how much money
you need monthly to meet your needs to establish your
salary requirements.
Research salary information at sites like
www.salary.com, www.designsalaries.org
and www.creativegroup.com/Marketing-Salary along with
information from professional organizations such as AIGA,
AIA, IDSA and others.
Prospect for grant money from state, regional and national
art councils and organizations. Explore NYFA Source at
http://www.nyfa.org for its extensive database of resources.
Look past just the salary and take into consideration the
entire package (benefits, vacation, perks, etc)
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N E E D A W E B PR E SE NCE?
POSTING WORK ONLINE — free
RISD PORTFOLIOS — HTTP://PORTFOLIOS.RISD.EDU
Join RISD’s first centralized source for portfolios powered by Behance and gain outstanding exposure for your work. Being a part of the RISD
portfolio community allows you to be seen by employers searching for RISD talent. You can also seamlessly merge your portfolio with your
LinkedIn profile. Go to http:// portfolios.risd.edu/ and click the sign-up button. Follow the signup steps to create your profile. Don’t forget to
review both RISD’s and Behance’s Terms of Service.
COROFLOT.COM
INDEXHIBIT.COM
A fast, easy way to get your creative projects online and in front
of the right people. Create your portfolio in minutes—no coding
needed. With no upload limit, you can share as much work as
you want for free.
A web application used to build and maintain an archetypal,
invisible website format that combines text, image, movie and
sound.
ETSY.COM
CARBONMADE.COM
The easiest way to display and manage your portfolio online. A
clean canvas to show off your work. Instant updating with no html
experience necessary, and a set of easy to use management tools.
Etsy is an online marketplace for buying & selling all things
handmade. Setting up a shop on Etsy is easy and takes only
a few minutes. Sign up is free, but It does cost 20 cents to list
an item for four months.
WEEBLY.COM
STYLEPORTFOLIOS.COM
Easy website creation is our passion. Our core advantage is our
easy drag & drop website editor. Choose from a variety of
elements like videos, photo galleries, maps, forums, contact
forms and more!
The first and only online portfolio website dedicated to the
fashion industry. Portfolios will be exposed to recruiters and
design directors from some of the best companies in the
business.
GOOGLE.COM/SITES
FLICKR.COM
Google sites makes creating and sharing a group website an easy
single-click creation. No html required. Customizable look and
feel. Settings for accessing and sharing information.
Flickr—almost certainly the best online photo management
and sharing application in the world. Organize photos and video,
and customize their availability to the public.
TUMBLR.COM
DIGICATION.COM
Post anything. Share text, links, photos, quotes, music, and
videos, from your browser, phone, desktop, or email.
Free for RISD students. Digication is the leading provider of
easy-to-use e-Portfolio solutions which allow you to easily,
flexibly and professionally showcase your work and
achievements.
BLOGGER.COM
Create a blog. It’s free. It’s easy to post text, photos, and videos
from the web or your mobile phone. Unlimited flexibility to
personalize your blog with themes, gadgets, and more.
DEVIANTART.COM
Join the largest art community in the world to share and sell
artwork, start your art collection and track your favorite artists!
WORDPRESS.COM
You can get a blog started in less time than it takes you to read
this sentence. All you need is an email address. Get your own
wordpress.com address and a selection of free and customizable
designs for your blog.
ISSUU.COM
The leading digital publishing platform delivering exceptional
reading experiences of magazines, catalogs, and newspapers.
Millions have uploaded their best publications to create beautiful
digital editions.
WIX.COM
Create your own free website that looks and functions the way
you want. Wix is an online editor with a drag & drop interface
that lets you learn how to make a website without coding.
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STACEYAPP.COM
A lightweight content management system. No database setup
or installation files, simply drop the application on a server.
POSTING WORK ONLINE — fee based
SNAPPAGES.COM
FLATFILE.WS
We give you the tools you need and leave out the ones you
don’t so that you have less confusion and more enjoyment.
With our simple drag and drop tools you can have your new
website up and running in no time.
Flatfile was created by The Design Office of Providence, RI as a
low-cost Web solution for artists, galleries and universities. As
designers in Providence, we know scores of artists who have yet
to put their artwork online in an updateable way.
SQUARESPACE.COM
ARTSPAN.COM
Squarespace is a fully hosted, completely managed environment
for creating and maintaining a website, blog or portfolio. We give
you full control over your content and site customization. You
can build it 10X faster on our comprehensive platform.
With an Artspan site, you become part of a large and highly
visible online community of original fine artists, photographers
and crafts people. You get your own fully designed and hosted
website and URL.
CARGOCOLLECTIVE.COM
BIGBLACKBAG.COM
A web publishing CMS and community-building platform where
everything, from the ever-changing visual appearance of people’s
personal websites to the user interface, is built around the work
shared by its members.
Our templates are designed to display your work in the best
possible light. Whether your style is bold and colorful or sleek
and simple, our templates give you the flexibility and freedom
to design the website that’s perfect for you.
FOLIOSNAP.COM
WORKBOOK.COM
FolioSnap is a powerful web application that you can use to build
a complete portfolio website quickly, with no software to download and no need to learn HTML.
Provides easy-to-use portfolio website creation, management
and traffic reporting tools developed exclusively for professional
photographers, illustrators and designers. Workbook.com is the
number one online portal for the creative industry.
INTUIT.COM
Intuit websites are a fast, easy, inexpensive way for any business
to get a customized website without hiring a designer or having
to learn complicated computer languages. We host your site for
you, and you can update your site at anytime. Our Web Advisors
are ready to help you 7 days a week.
CREATIVEHOTLIST.COM
Promote yourself with an Online Portfolio & PDF. Hotlist Tools
subscription promotes your work to thousands of ad agencies
and design firms; notifies you when job listings are posted that
match your interests and talents; and creates a professional
appearance whenever you respond to a job listing.
FOLIOLINK.COM
An online service to create your own high impact portfolio
website with business workflow options to meet your needs.
It is designed for photographers, artists, and creative
professionals and all websites are optimized for search engine
visibility. Flash designs come with a shadow HTML website.
THEISPOT.COM
CLOVERSITES.COM
PHOTOSERVE.COM
What sets Clover apart from every other website solution
is that it was created to give you the best, cleanest, front-end
web presence available, combined with the most intuitive,
un-intimidating content management system ever invented.
PDN’s PhotoServe is a cost effective way to reach buyers
in the visual arts industry. It stands out from other marketing
tools because of our active promotion through our current
advertising and direct mail campaigns targeting ad agencies,
publishing houses, galleries, and entertainment companies.
Builds an online home for illustrators to market work and
communicate with other artists worldwide. Your Portfolio page
is cleanly designed and pre-formatted; your only job is to select
the 24 images you want to show to art directors worldwide.
QFOLIO.COM
Qfolio Online Portfolio Format is designed to feature your work
and not the work of your web designer. Present your online
portfolio in a clean, clear, unpretentious way. Work directly,
one-on-one with a Qfolio designer who will adapt the format to
meet the specific needs of your work.
MYEXPOSE.COM
MyExposé puts your entire collection online with two innovative
services: MyExposé website and MyAssistant control tool which
simplify the process of creating, managing, and maintaining your
website so you can spend your time, skill, and creativity doing
more important things such as producing art.
5
INTERVIEWING FOR
CREATIVE JOBS
POINTS TO REMEMBER
DRESS APPROPRIATELY
Successful interviews with prospective employers are built
upon a foundation of thorough preparation. Use this guide to
prepare yourself for your interview.
Each field and organization has its own norms for dress and
behavior. Dress appropriately for the particular environment
and the work for which you are being interviewed. When in
doubt, err slightly on the side of what you perceive as
“conservative” for the setting.
ANALYZE YOUR STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
Begin your interview preparation with an evaluation of your skills
and abilities. Analyze your background, academic performance,
personal goals, values, and portfolio. Think through not only what
you would like to do, but also what you are best prepared to do.
KNOW YOUR EMPLOYER
Research prospective employers. It is important to know about
their products, services, philosophies, policies, and personnel.
“Doing your homework” will help build your confidence and
assist you in answering and asking questions appropriately.
PORTFOLIO PREPARATION
Make certain your portfolio is ready for a professional
presentation—research and select the most effective methods
for your specific discipline. Organize your portfolio for each
individual company.
ANTICIPATE THE EMPLOYER’S QUESTIONS
This handout includes some questions employers frequently ask
applicants. Study them and practice your responses. It is often
helpful to develop a short list of important phrases or
information you want to include in your responses, rather
than a lengthy “script” that may inhibit your ability to react
to the interview situation as it develops.
ASK QUESTIONS
Always be prepared to ask questions at an interview, particularly
if you’re not clear about the details of the job. Insightful questions
reflect well upon you and indicate your interest in the position.
REMAIN POSITIVE
Do not volunteer any information about what you perceive are
your weaknesses. If the interviewer challenges you on this point,
don’t side-step the issue; answer briefly and non-defensively.
Keep the positive aspects of your qualifications in the forefront
of your mind and the discussion.
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FOLLOW UP
Send a thank you note/email, and references or transcripts,
if requested by the prospective employer, within 48 hours.
Attention to these details reinforces your interest in the
position and may positively affect how you are evaluated.
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WEIGHING YOUR OPTIONS
RESEARCH THE ORGANIZATION’S MISSION
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What business is it?
What services or products does it provide or produce?
Who are its customers or clients?
Is the company a subsidiary or does it have subsidiaries?
Is the company involved in a growing industry?
Is it a leader or notable in its field?
ITS SIZE AND STRUCTURE
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Number of employees?
Any RISD alumni working for the company?
Does it have one location or is it regional, national, or
multinational?
What are the trends and current issues in the industry?
FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT ITS FUTURE
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Natural resources - shortage or surplus
Scientific or technological changes which may occur
Foreign or domestic competitors
Social trends/lifestyles of consumers or workforce
Financial stability of the firm and its growth potential
HOW TO BEGIN
GENERAL GUIDELINES
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ONLINE RESEARCH
The Internet is a wonderful tool for research. Make sure to
investigate the company website and pay particular attention to
sections such as: About Us, Company Philosophy, Client List, and/
or Mission Statement.
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TOPICAL ISSUES
Periodicals and industry trade journals are an excellent resource
for information on specific industries or companies. Virtually
every field has useful directories that provide information about
the industry.
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DIRECT CONTACT WITH
THE ORGANIZATION’S PEOPLE
“Informational interviews” are the best way to gather data and
get a glimpse into the industry or field you are researching.
While not usually appropriate for a company to which you will
be applying, this should be an essential part of every student’s
career exploration and development.
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PORTFOLIO
PREPARATION & PRESENTATION
The quality of your work, as reflected in your portfolio, is a key
factor in getting the job you want. When you are ready to begin
assembling your portfolio, you face some important decisions
about what to include and how to present it. Faculty in your
department and the advisors in the Career Center are resources
for this process and can provide suggestions. Each professional
area has its own norms and standards. You should investigate
those standards by looking at the portfolios of professionals in
your career area. For examples, go to the Talent and Networking
bookmark at www.delicious.com/risdtalent.
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Neatness is essential; art work should be free of
smudges, erasures, and any other distracting information.
Sequence your work carefully and logically, starting strong
and finishing strong.
Only include those pieces that you feel are your best work
and are appropriate to the kind of job for which you are
applying. This means that you might have to change your
portfolio for different kinds of interviews and prospective
employers.
You will have to make some decisions about the focus
of your portfolio. You may want to show the breadth
of your talent and your ability to do many different things or
you may want to focus your portfolio in a specialized area.
These decisions will be determined by your chosen field and
the specific kind of work for which you are applying. As a
general rule, your portfolio should communicate what your
real talents are and where your primary interests lie.
Be prepared to talk about your work and to have
comments for all your pieces.
Leaving your portfolio with someone can be potentially
risky or rewarding. Despite the horror stories about lost
or stolen work, “drop offs” may be the only way you can
show your work. Use your instincts to determine if you can
trust the person and if leaving the work will be of additional
benefit. One of the purposes of making an appointment is
to ensure that you and your portfolio can be seen together.
Establish an online presence join the RISD Portfolios @
http://portfolios.risd.edu
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EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
ANSWERING THEIR QUESTIONS
REMAIN POSITIVE
TYPICAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
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An interviewer wants to learn not only about your skills,but
also about your character. It is important to keep your
responses, and the interview in general, upbeat and positive. Very often, interviewers will ask a question that seems
to require you to be negative or critical, but you can turn
those questions around so they can be answered positively.
Employers look for people who can think under pressure,
and the interview is an opportunity to prove you can do
this.
Employers are like everyone else—they want to hire and
be around enthusiastic and motivated people. It is important to feel confident and relaxed. Practice interviewing can
help you feel comfortable and ensure that you are making
the best impression possible without being insincere.
BODY LANGUAGE
Beware of how concepts, feelings, and attitudes can be expressed
visually. Use your skills to interpret the interviewer’s body
language. Good eye contact and a firm handshake are only part
of successful body communication. Posture, tone of voice, facial
expressions, and hand movements also play an integral role.
DRESSING FOR SUCCESS
It is better to err on the side of formality than informality. Dress
appropriately for the industry and only slightly better than the
people in the field do on a day-to-day basis. As an artist or
designer, neatness and professionalism in personal appearance is
a strong complement to the quality of your work. There will be
plenty of time to express your individuality once you get the job.
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Tell me a little about yourself.
Why did you choose to attend RISD?
What led you to choose your major field of study?
What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
How do you feel about your work being changed or
modified?
Can you work under pressure?
Who was the worst person you ever worked for; why?
Why are you interested in this position?
Why are you interested in this firm?
What is the greatest challenge you have had to face?
How did you handle this situation?
What are your greatest strengths? Weaknesses?
What kind of decisions are most difficult for you?
What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
Is graduate education a future goal? When?
What are you most proud of about yourself?
Do you prefer to work alone or in a group?
How do you feel about working in a team setting?
What else should I know about you?
I see many students with credentials similar to yours,
why should I hire you?
Remember that you are being evaluated throughout the
interview process and especially during “casual” conversations,
lunches, etc. Federal laws, and some state laws restrict
interviewers and require them to ask only questions that
pertain to the job requirements. Inquiries about race, national
origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, and other
matters not directly connected to job performance are not valid,
or legal, topics.
ASKING YOUR QUESTIONS
THEY EXPECT YOU TO ASK
Asking questions serves two purposes: first, to clarify issues or
concerns you may have related to your potential employment,
and second, to convey your interest in the position. Questions
should never be gratuitous, but if you are really interested in a
position, you can always think of something more that you would
like to know about it.
8
PREPARE YOUR QUESTIONS BEFOREHAND — SAMPLES
NEVER GO FIRST
•
If the interviewer directly or indirectly confirms that the firm is
interested in hiring you, they will probably ask what kind of salary
you are looking for. If you go first, you risk losing the job because
your figure is much too high, or you risk losing money if your
figure is lower than what the employer would have been willing
to pay. Counter by asking what salary range the firm has allocated
for the position. It is not your job to figure out how much a job is
worth to the employer, so try to avoid naming an amount while
being as diplomatic as possible.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
As I gain more experience, what opportunities might
become available to me?
Can you give me a little more detail regarding the specific
job responsibilities?
What do you think is the most challenging aspect of the job?
Who would be my direct supervisor?
How is the supervision done?
What qualities are you looking for in your new hires?
What would my work environment be like?
What kind of projects or new products do you see the
company becoming involved with in the next few years?
How would this position allow me to use my initiative and
develop my skills?
Don’t bring up the issue of compensation during the interview.
The interview is about your potential to perform the job well.
You will want to make sure the interviewer has an objective
opportunity to realize that you would be an excellent choice
before you discuss your requirements with regard to salary and
benefits. If the job notice asks for a resume and salary history,
send the resume and the salary range you feel is appropriate
given your experience, education and knowledge of salaries for
the position. You won’t lose the opportunity for the interview if
your resume and cover letter are effective.
FOLLOW UP
After an interview, send a thank you note/email, as well as any
additional materials the employer has requested, within 48 hours.
Keep it short and sincere. The follow-up serves several purposes:
•
•
•
It provides the opportunity for further visibility.
It gives you the opportunity to briefly remind the interviewer
of your strengths and genuine interest in the position.
It demonstrates that you are a thoughtful person who
values the interviewer’s time.
SALARY NEGOTATIONS
WAIT UNTIL YOU ARE MADE AN OFFER
After you are offered a position, always remember to ask the
critical questions. Inexperienced workers or students who have
not held a job may forget to confirm their salary, starting date,
and benefits. Be wary of employers who attempt to embroil you
in the excitement of your new position, yet only sketch out the
details of your compensation package.
FIRST RESPONSE
This is where negotiation begins. When they suggest a salary
(often a salary range), repeat the top figure given. Then be quiet.
Your silence indicates that you’re not satisfied, and may prompt
a second, higher figure, without saying anything. In order to
negotiate effectively, you must have a clear sense of the amount
of money you need to make. Know your bottom line—how much
money it will take to pay your expenses (student loans, transportation, rent, food and other bills). Know the figures on an hourly,
weekly, and yearly basis.
COUNTER THEIR OFFER
If their offer is too low, suggest a higher figure. To be effective in
this, you must have done some research to establish what others
in similar positions, in similar companies, actually earn. Again, you
must balance this with your bottom line, and how badly you want
that particular job. Even if you cannot come to an acceptable
agreement at this time, avoid saying no immediately. Give yourself
some time to consider the offer in greater detail, and allow them
to perhaps make a better offer.
CONSIDER ALL DETAILS OF THE OFFER
Salary is only part of the compensation. Don’t accept the position
until you determine what other benefits will be included, such as
medical/dental insurance, vacation time, sick days, bonuses, or
even relocation expenses. Given the high cost of medical
insurance, and other benefits, do not relax until all the details are
clearly stated, and acceptable to you. While some larger
companies have a fixed non-negotiable package, you may
be able to improve your benefits through skillful negotiation
with smaller companies.
9
WHERE THE JOBS ARE
BEGIN HERE:
GENERAL JOB SEARCHES
CRAIGSLIST
ARTWORKS
RISD JOBS & INTERNSHIPS
http://www.risdcareers.com/jobs/students-and-alumni
RISD’s job and internship board. Many listings are made directly
to us. They want RISD; you’re RISD; connect!
Many postings are made by alumni and those who have worked
with RISD and want RISD talent.
DELICIOUS
ONLINE JOB BOARDS
http://www.delicious.com/risdcareers/jobs
Extensive listing of hundreds of job boards and recruitment
agencies across numerous creative disciplines.
Delicious is a social bookmarking service that the Career
Center has utilized as a career resource library, and
populated to bring you new and interesting RISD
discipline-related websites.
The job boards you will find here have been selected and tagged
by the RISD Career Center so you can quickly search for the
boards that match your interests.
http://www.craigslist.org/about/sites
The one, the only. Search for every kind of opportunity in most
every kind of city.
INDEED
http://www.indeed.com
In one simple search, Indeed gives job seekers free access to
millions of employment opportunities from thousands of websites.
JUJU
http://www.job-search-engine.com
Provides quick access to jobs found on thousands of employer
websites and job boards all around the web.
SIMPLY HIRED
http://www.simplyhired.com
Search millions of job listings from across the web. Find local
jobs, salary comparisons, and employment trends. New jobs
are added daily.
PROVIDENCE AND
RHODE ISLAND JOB RESOURCES
JOBZLE
http://jobzle.com
Jobzle is a local website designed to help Rhode Island students
find jobs while still in college and beyond.
RI NEXUS - MARKETPLACE
http://rinexus.com/marketplace
RI Nexus is powered by the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation. Marketplace provides opportunity listings
related to info-tech & digital media, located in Rhode Island.
RHODE ISLAND COMMUNITY JOBS (RICOMJOB)
http://swearercenter.brown.edu/opportunities
RICOMJOB, compiled by the Swearer Center for Public Service,
is a public e-mail announcement list that seeks to connect
non-profit and public interest employers in the state with
individuals seeking paid work that makes a difference in our
communities.
RHODE ISLAND STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS – RISCA
http://www.arts.ri.gov/blogs/?cat=7
RISCA list jobs, comprehensive grant information and other
opportunities for RI artists.
10
FINE ARTS — GENERAL
FINE ARTS — REGION SPECIFIC
AMERICANS FOR THE ARTS
ARTIST TRUST - OPPORTUNITIES
http://jobbank.artsusa.org
Americans for the Arts Job Bank, where employers and
recruiters can access the most qualified talent pool with
relevant work experience.
http://artisttrust.org/index.php/for-artists/opportunities
Artist Trust is dedicated to supporting Washington State artists
working in all creative disciplines.
CALIFORNIA ARTS COUNCIL - JOBS IN THE ARTS
ART DEADLINES LIST
http://www.artdeadlineslist.com
A monthly fee-based newsletter, announcing art contests/
competitions, art scholarships / grants, juried exhibitions, art jobs /
internships, and calls for entries/proposals/papers.
http://www.cac.ca.gov/jobs
The California Arts Council’s website helps provide
information on open positions for arts administrators, arts
instructors and other arts and culture jobs in the state.
CHICAGO ARTISTS RESOURCE - JOBS
ARTDEADLINE.COM
http://www.artdeadline.com
Artdeadline is a comprehensive fee-based source for income and
exhibition opportunities.
ARTJOB
http://www.artjob.org
ArtJob is the place to find comprehensive, up-to-date national
listings of jobs, internships, fellowships and other employment
opportunities in the arts. Contact the RISD Career Center for
username and password.
ARTS OPPORTUNITIES
http://www.artsopportunities.org
A comprehensive database of jobs, internships and artist
opportunities, a service provided by the Center for Arts
Management and Technology at Carnegie Mellon University.
ARTSTAFFING.COM (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.artstaffing.com/index.html
Thomas & Associates, Inc. is an innovative firm that offers staffing, consulting and training programs for museums,
non-profit organizations, and art businesses nationwide.
CURRENT JOBS FOR GRADUATES
http://www.graduatejobs.com
This is the National Employment Bulletin for the Visual Arts
Professions. Contact the RISD Career Center for username and
password.
NATIONAL DIRECTORY OF STATE ARTS AGENCIES
http://www.nasaa-arts.org/About/State-Arts-AgencyDirectory.php
A directory of arts agencies searchable by state, where you
are able to find local job boards for opportunities in the arts.
http://www.chicagoartistsresource.org/visual-arts/jobs
CAR jobs is a creative job board provided by the Chicago
Office of Tourism and Culture.
GREATER PHILLADELPHIA CULTURAL ALLIANCE
(PHILACULTURE) JOB BANK
http://www.philaculture.org/jobbank
Philaculture is the region’s resource of job opportunities.
HIRECULTURE
http://www.hireculture.org
Hireculture is a free, searchable database of cultural employment
opportunities in Massachusetts provided by the Massachusetts
Cultural Council.
NYFA – JOBS IN THE ARTS
http://www.nyfa.org/opportunities.
asp?type=Job&id=94&fid=1&sid=54
NYFA’s Jobs in the Arts is the premiere source for jobs and
internships in the arts and culture industry in New York
and nationwide.
REGIONAL ARTS AND CULTURE COUNCIL
http://www.racc.org/resources/jobs
RACC has served the Portland, Oregon tri-county area
since 1995 and lists arts-related job openings in the Pacific
Northwest region.
SPRINGBOARD FOR THE ARTS – JOB BOOK
http://www.springboardforthearts.org/JOBS/JOBS.ASP
The Job Book announces openings from arts-friendly
organizations and companies, primarily in Minnesota.
11
APPAREL & TEXTILE DESIGN
24 SEVEN (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.24seveninc.com/index.php
24 Seven is the leading talent recruitment agency for the
biggest names in fashion, retail, beauty, marketing, advertising,
and entertainment.
CLOTHING INDUSTRY JOBS
http://www.clothingindustryjobs.com
Clothing Industry Jobs is dedicated to assisting employees locate
job opportunities in the field of apparel or textiles.
FASHION NET
http://www.fashion.net/jobs
Fashion Net is the leading search engine and guide to all things
chic, listing fashion-related positions and internships including
design, retail, accessories and more.
FASHIONCAREERS.COM
http://www.fashioncareers.com
Online career center for WWD and FN. Search for jobs by
employer type, job type, state and region.
PROJECT SOLVERS (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.projectsolvers.com
Project Solvers is a resource for top freelance and permanent
personnel in the fashion, apparel and design related industries.
STYLECAREERS
http://www.stylecareers.com/candidates/jobsearch.asp
Style Careers is the largest, fashion-only job listing site on the
Internet. Search fields are geographic within the US and include:
Apparel, Bags/Accessories, Beauty, Footwear, Home Fashion,
Retail and Textiles.
ARCHITECTURE, INTERIORS
& LANDSCAPE
AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS
http://careercenter.aia.org/search.cfm
AIA Career Center provides job listings for architects, interior
architects, landscape architects and engineers across the U.S.
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF INTERIOR DESIGNERS
http://asid.jobcontrolcenter.com/search.cfm
Listings of current jobs across the U.S. within the interiors field
including residential, retail, architecture, commercial, hospitality
and more.
ARCHINECT
http://www.archinect.com/jobs/index.php
Archinect is the most trafficked architecture employment
channel on the internet today. The goal is to make architecture
more connected and open-minded, and bring together designers
from around the world.
ARCHITIZER
http://www.architizer.com/en_us/jobs
Architizer is a new way for architects to interact, show their
work, and find clients. It is an open community created by
architects for architects and also lists jobs throughout the world.
CONSULTING FOR ARCHITECTS (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.cons4arch.com
Consulting for Architects knows how to recruit exceptional
architectural talent and interior designers, and we know where
to find the most desirable jobs throughout New York City,
Boston, Chicago, or nationwide.
EDUCATION
ACADEMIC KEYS
http://finearts.academickeys.com/seeker_job.php
Academic Keys provides a comprehensive listing of university
job openings. Post your curriculum vitae/resume to be notified
when an available position in your area of research is posted on
Academic Keys.
CHRONICLE CAREERS
http://chronicle.com/jobs
The Chronicle of Higher Education is the #1 source of news,
information, and jobs for college and university faculty
members and administrators. Explore positions at institutions
across the U.S.
12
COLLEGE ART ASSOCIATION
http://careercenter.collegeart.org/jobs
The CAA Online Career Center is the largest database of
employment listings in the art and academic worlds. Job seekers
may search listings and post their CV, and employers may submit
classified advertisements and browse information about
potential candidates. Other features allow schools and
institutions to set up interviews at the CAA
conference and elsewhere.
FILM/ANIMATION/VIDEO
ANIMATION WORLD NETWORK (AWN)
http://jobs.awn.com/c/search.cfm?site_id=500
AWN has been helping bring job seekers and employers
together across the globe. Our Career Connections Job Portal
represents our most comprehensive and sophisticated
recruitment system.
MANDY.COM – FILM JOBS
http://www.higheredjobs.com/default.cfm
HigherEdJobs.com has one of the largest job databases
focused exclusively on college and university positions.
http://www.mandy.com/1/filmtvjobs.cfm
Production job vacancies in film and broadcast across the U.S.
covering administration, art departments, crew, post-production
and production.
INSIDEHIGHERED.COM
NEW ENGLAND FILM – JOBS
http://www.insidehighered.com
Inside Higher Ed is the online source for news, opinion and jobs
for all of higher education. We’ve got what you need to thrive in
your job or find a better one: a powerful suite of tools to help
higher education professionals get jobs.
http://www.newenglandfilm.com/jobs.htm
Here you’ll find film jobs and work in the television industry.
The jobs listed here include work in the New England area
including Boston and Providence.
HIGHEREDJOBS.COM
MOTIONOGRAPHER JOBS
SCHOOLSPRING.COM
http://www.schoolspring.com
An easy, dynamic, and effective way for new and experienced
educators to apply for teaching jobs. What makes SchoolSpring.
com unique is that we scour the web for job postings from
around the country and bring them together in one easy search.
http://motionographer.com/jobs
For jobs and paid internship opportunities in Broadcast design,
Motion graphics, 3D animation, Interactive design, Live action
production, Visual effects and Producing.
GAMING
ENVIRONMENTAL/SUSTAINABLE
BOSTON POST MORTEM
ENVIRONMENTALJOBS.COM
http://bostonpostmortem.org/jobboard
Boston-based job listings for the gaming industry covering
designers, producers, programmers and artists.
http://www.environmentaljobs.com
Your source for the most current jobs in engineering, science,
policy, energy, and more.
ENVIRONMENTAL CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
http://www.ecojobs.com/
Hundreds of listings for jobs in conservation, environmental
education, advocacy policy and communications.
STOPDODO.COM
http://www.stopdodo.com
Jobs, news, courses and events within climate change,
conservation, ecology, low-carbon, energy, renewables, and
environmental management.
GAMASUTRA
http://www.gamasutra.com/jobs/board.php
The game industry leader in career resources with jobs
searchable by company, title, description, city, state or country.
GAMEJOBS
http://www.gamejobs.com
GameJobs boasts the largest membership of human resource
professionals, and widest penetration into the target demographic
for job seekers, remaining the go-to destination for the industry’s
leading recruiters.
13
GRAPHIC DESIGN
KROP
http://designjobs.aiga.org/public/jobs_browse.asp
AIGA Design Jobs is the first place AIGA members turn to find
their next opportunity, and the premier place for employers
seeking the most qualified designers.
http://www.krop.com
Krop is a job board and career resource website for creative
professionals. Whether you’re looking for job, or hunting
top-notch talent, Krop’s simple and powerful tools are geared
towards connecting the worlds brightest minds with the best
companies.
AQUENT (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
LOGOPOND
http://aquent.us
Aquent pairs marketing and design specialists with challenging
jobs to create inspired, productive partnerships which produce
meaningful work for our client companies and the talent we
represent.
http://logopond.com/jobs
Logopond aggregates jobs from the design communities’ top
job boards.
AIGA DESIGN JOBS (MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED)
CHERYL ROSHAK ASSOCIATES (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.croshak.com
Cheryl Roshak Associates is the only creative recruitment firm
in New York with a full-service temp division for both print and
new media in addition to a permanent placement division.
COROFLOT
http://www.coroflot.com
Coroflot’s job board is the largest and most active site on
the internet specifically targeted at hiring designers and other
creative professionals.
CREATIVE HOTLIST
http://www.creativehotlist.com
Much more than a job site for the creative community,
Creative Hotlist enables users to find individuals, companies and
resources for any aspect of the creative marketplace including
job openings.
CREATIVEPLACEMENT (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.creativeplacement.com
From short-term freelance production to the permanent
placement of entire creative teams, we have deep experience
in all levels of premium recruitment within design firms,
corporations, and advertising agencies.
HOW
http://www.howdesign.com/joblist
HOW’s job bank provides extensive listings within the design
field ranging from print, web, interaction, package design and
management.
14
THE ART DIRECTORS CLUB
http://adcglobal.coroflot.com/public/jobs_browse.asp
ADC provides a forum for creatives in Advertising, Design,
Interactive Media and Communications. They list opportunities
across advertising, exhibit design, graphic design, interaction
design and web design.
INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
COROFLOT
http://www.coroflot.com
Coroflot’s job board is the largest and most active site on
the internet specifically targeted at hiring designers and other
creative professionals.
MALAKYE
http://www.malakye.com/asp/front/default.asp
Malakye is the ultimate destination for job candidates of the
Action Sports industry. Search for design jobs by keyword,
industry sector, job category, experience and/or location.
YEH IDEOLOGY (PLACEMENT AGENCY)
http://www.yehideology.com
Yeh IDeology is a boutique recruiting firm specializing in
industrial design and related industries. We find creative
professionals who work in Industrial Design, Product Design,
Brand Strategy and Research.
MUSEUMS
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF MUSEUMS
http://www.aam-us.org/aviso/index.cfm
AAM represents the entire scope of museums and professionals
and nonpaid staff who work for and with museums. Find jobs
across a broad range of museum experiences.
MUSEUM EMPLOYMENT RESOURCE CENTER
http://www.museum-employment.com
The Museum Employment Resource Center lists jobs and other
information related to the museum, heritage management, and
cultural resource communities.
OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS
http://www.opportunityknocks.org
For nonprofit professionals, Opportunity Knocks is the premier
destination to find nonprofit jobs and access valuable resources
for developing successful careers in the nonprofit community.
RHODE ISLAND COMMUNITY JOBS (RICOMJOB)
http://swearercenter.brown.edu/opportunities
RICOMJOB, compiled by the Swearer Center for Public Service,
is a public e-mail announcement list that seeks to connect nonprofit and public interest employers in the state with individuals
seeking paid work that makes a difference in our communities.
MUSEUM JOBS
THE FOUNDATION CENTER - PHILANTHROPY NEWS
DIGEST JOBS
http://www.museumjobs.com
The jobsite for museums, galleries, libraries and archives.
Postings are U.S. and international.
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs
Provides listings of current full-time job openings at U.S.-based
foundations and nonprofit organizations.
MUSEUM PROFESSIONALS
USAJOBS - THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S
OFFICIAL JOBS SITE
http://www.museumprofessionals.org
Museumprofessionals.org was designed by museum
professionals for museum professionals and lists jobs within
the U.S. and overseas.
SMITHSONIAN CAREER CENTER
http://www.sihr.si.edu
At the Smithsonian we believe that a workforce composed of
a variety of educational, cultural and experiential backgrounds
supports and enhances our daily work life as well as the richness
and diversity of our exhibits and programs.
NONPROFIT & GOVERNMENT
www.usajobs.gov
The Federal government’s official job list. Shown are employment search, information center, veteran information and forms.
THEATER
ARTSEARCH
http://www.tcg.org/artsearch
ArtSEARCH lists jobs in the following areas: Theater and
Performing Arts Centers, Summer Festivals, Universities
and Schools, Museums, Arts Councils, and various other Arts
Organizations. Contact RISD Careers for username and
password.
IDEALIST.ORG
http://www.idealist.org
Idealist is an interactive site where people and organizations can
exchange resources and ideas, locate opportunities, and take
steps toward building a world where all people can lead free and
dignified lives.
BACKSTAGEJOBS.COM
http://backstagejobs.com/jobs.php
Job listings from around the US and around the world.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN RHODE ISLAND
STATE GOVERNMENT
www.dlt.ri.gov/jobsri/statejobs.htm
State Jobs and Other Job Postings managed by the RI Dept of
Labor and Training in partnership with the Human Resources
Outreach and Diversity Office.
15
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
PLEASE REMEMBER TO VISIT:
www.risdcareers.com
Typefaces used are Gill Sans, and
ITC Bodoni Seventy-Two
Design by Wes Adams (GD/’11), 2010
Revision by Laura Huaranga (GD/’12), 2011
Reprint partially funded by Hallmark Cards, Inc. 2012
risd career center May 16, 2012
RISD CAREER CENTER
www.risdcareers.com
52 Angell Street, Providence RI
401-454-6614