Pop-Up Portfolio
Since I moved to Florida, I've been spending a large portion of my time looking for work. There are a few web sites I visit every day and I'm continuing to pursue whatever freelance opportunities come my way.
Every so often (okay, twice so far), I actually get a response that results in an interview* and that was the case this Tuesday. I got the call last Thursday that they were interested in meeting me and my mind went into overdrive trying to come up with a great way to promote myself to this organization looking for a Graphic Designer for their children's line. The idea I came up with was to create a "pop-up" book featuring pieces of my portfolio (and a cute little story about Yours Truly)... it didn't help that Mother's Day weekend fell during my prep time** but I was able to scramble and I got the project done.
*Truth be told, I've managed to schedule two interviews but only succeeded at meeting someone for one of them. The first interview I scheduled was with a printer near the Miami Airport. It took me almost an hour to get there and when I arrived I was asked to wait while they located my interviewer. The receptionist returned a few minutes later to tell me the position had already been filled... thanks for calling to let me know so I wouldn't waste my time and energy. Oh well, the joke's on them - I'm a great designer!
**I'm happy to report I was able to get to Clermont to visit my folks for Mother's Day. We enjoyed good food and a chance to visit - now that I'm living in the same state as them I'm seeing my parents on a much more regular basis. Who knows how long I'll be in Florida, but as long as I'm here I might as well take advantage of it!
Here's just a peek at what it looks like:
Each page features a different aspect to my skills (logos, t-shirt designs, children's drawings) and a different interactive way of viewing them. When I have more time, I'll post each page individually so you can see what they look like - but it really isn't as effective as seeing it in person.
I haven't heard back from the employer, but even if I don't end up getting a job from this, at least I've got a great new addition to my portfolio***!
***This project also reminded me of working with my students when we were creating resumes and discussing how to best sell yourself to an employer. Now I'm getting a chance to put my money where my mouth is, eh?
Okay... back to the search... I'll keep you posted!
I LOVE it Kev! When I had to do a book on a Greek diety (Eros... isn't that funny?!) I chose to do it as a children's interactive book. Beth (teacher) said it was a "first". This is a wonderful way to introduce yourself! Can't wait to see the pages (and I know it is not as great as in person, but better than nothing!)
Good luck!
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