Hello all,
Unfortunately I posted this question first time on a wrong area. I hope this is the correct place now.
I need some advice for my future career please.
My first job in the industry required 5 years of experience... but, I knew the guy I'd be working most closely with and he got me past HR in for an interview with his boss.
So... networking, networking, networking. Prove that you'd fit in with the workgroup and they'll let you gain some experience on the job.
As for starting pay... the first two years are much lower in pay, the next two years climb up a bit... pay doesn't jump up more until you get about 5 years in.
Lack of a degree will hurt you up front $, but, by 10 years in, you'll have caught up with your peers who have a degree.
Hmm, here's an article I wrote on asking for a raise... there should be some decent resources in here...
http://www.augi.com/library/poll-what-data-have-you-gathered-for-your-end-of-year-review
Wait, here we go... a list of resources to get an idea of fair pay...
http://www.augi.com/library/the-salary-survey-is-coming
(if you need to log in for the above, you could always see my private blog listing the same resources, whatever, if you're not an AUGI member already, you should be... http://mistressofthedorkness.blogspot.com/2011/09/2011-augi-salary-survey-additional.html )
Oh, just in case you like CADD Manager, Mark Kiker, AUGI also has some podcasts available where I sort of interviewed him about tips for finding a design job.
http://www.augi.com/publications/audio-video-content
2010 - Finding a Design Job - Part 1
In the first talk of this six-part series, Mark Kiker and Melanie Perry discuss where to look for job postings (and the importance of following basic site guidelines).
View/download survey results (MP3)
2010 - Finding a Design Job - Part 2
Second in the series, Mark and Melanie talk about the process of the AUGI Annual Salary Survey and how to use information from many sources to get the best overall picture of your overall value.
View/download survey results (MP3)
2010 - Finding a Design Job - Part 3
The third part of the series is where Kiker and Perry discuss networking.The benefits, and the importance of giving and receiving.
View/download survey results (MP3)
2010 - Finding a Design Job - Part 4
The fourth installment reveals Melanie Perry and Mark Kiker's discussion on best practices for resumes and cover letters.
View/download survey results (MP3)
2010 - Finding a Design Job - Part 5
The fifth talk with CADDManager Mark Kiker and author Melanie Perry covers interviewing skills. There are tips for finding out whether or not you really are a good fit for the job you're interviewing for.
View/download survey results (MP3)
2010 - Finding a Design Job - Part 6
Melanie and Mark finish up their series on Finding a Design Job by talking about increasing your visibility and marketability. They cover presentation skills, public speaking, and what your internet presence says about your 'personal brand'.
View/download survey results (MP3)
Thank you very much Wanderer-MOTD,
I really appreciated your time and info you provided ,I will definitely check them out.
Alex