Top 10 things NOT to do when applying for a design job

Hello students and graduates! We get lots of job applications this time of year. In honor of graduation, I’ve crafted a little list of 10 things NOT to do when applying for a design job. This most likely applies to other design firms as well as Spoonbend. Enjoy!

1) DO Build a portfolio website. DO NOT email me a giant PDF. I don’t want to open it.

2) DO NOT have any broken links, “coming soon” or strange navigation.

3) DO NOT call. Mail me something cool! That way I can see your craft too.

4) DO NOT ask if “we’re hiring.” Offer to schedule a portfolio review appointment instead.

5) DO NOT pad your portfolio with freelance work just because it’s paid. It is OK just to have student work in your portfolio. Often little flyers and small freelance projects bring the quality of the portfolio down because the concept usually isn’t as thought out.

6) DO NOT feel entitled to anything. In this economy, be willing to take internships, production jobs, anything to get your foot in the door.

7) DO NOT leave your MySpace page with drunken party photos around for prospective employers to see. We will google you.

8 ) DO NOT send long rambling introductions by mail or email. State why you are right for the job, what you can offer the company, and what sets you apart from all of the other applicants in the sea.

9) DO NOT flip through your portfolio too quickly in an interview. Let your interviewer drive.

10) DO NOT have typos anywhere.