Welcome to our new series Ask a Recruiter! Our Denver Creative Talent Representative Lauren Friesen will be answering your burning questions related to job hunting, resume submission, portfolios and more.
A: When I was an Art Director, I would apply for jobs and wait with bated breath, checking my email frantically, torturing myself for days at a time. If I knew then what I know now, I wouldn’t have lost sleep over it. There are SO many pieces and parts to the hiring process, especially when you work with a staffing agency. First, we have to submit your work. You’re often being submitted with other talent, so make sure your resume and portfolio are up to date and impactful.
The client not only has to make time to review your work and history, but also connect with other decision makers. In a way, the wait is a good thing because you want a Hiring Manager to sit down and take time while reviewing your work. They could be busy, on vacation, or waiting for a crucial bit of information. Project scope changes, budgets are revised. There is just no end to the number of unforeseen hiccups that come up during the process. A good rule of thumb is to check in with your Talent Representative every week. Trust me, if there is news, they will let you know. We get almost as excited about it as you do!
When you do get that interview, make sure to get the Hiring Manager’s info from your rep so you can write a thank you note that sets you apart from the crowd! Patience is the name of the game, but remember – most of the time, it’s not about YOU. For every door that’s closed, there really are five more that open. Searching for work can be grueling and seem endless, but your Talent Rep is there for feedback and support. We’re here for you from the first interview until you accept an offer, so use us!
Lauren Friesen is a former Art Director turned Senior Talent Representative in Denver, Colorado. When not playing job fairy for Artisan Talent, she enjoys long distance running, interior design, vintage perfume collecting, and reading vast amounts of true crime.
Have a question you need answered? Ask Lauren questions at @LaurenMatches on Twitter or email her at lauren@artisantalent.com.