How would you describe your job?
Varied. We all have our unique strengths, but we’re generalists and all-rounders. We only take on projects with purpose; we work with clients that want to make change or disrupt the status quo.

This makes things interesting: one day I could be designing a brochure for print, and the next, delivering a tone of voice workshop. However, I have an affinity for branding. It’s always a good week when we’re working on brand strategy and concepts.

How did you land your current job?
I spotted Sail on Instagram. I was immediately engaged by their playful brands designed for third sector clients… There wasn’t a job going at Sail, but I wanted to meet the faces behind the work. So, I designed a bespoke die-cut flyer with a personalised letter and posted it to Mandy. I met with the team, got offered an internship, and after that, a full-time job.

Do you run any self-initiated or side projects alongside your job?
Not so much at the moment, but I did before I started full-time. The types of projects that I’m interested in are very similar to the work we do at Sail. We also do pro bono work, which usually involves something close to our hearts.

Starting as a full-time junior in a small studio is quite a steep learning curve. There’s lots to take in regarding software skills, artworking and deadlines – real world stuff you don’t learn at university. Now, in my spare time, I find myself watching Skillshare, reading design books and messing around in Illustrator. Also, check out the Logocore challenge – one for sharpening your artworking skills.

What skills and tools do you use most for your work?
My skill set is mostly geared towards concept creation; I enjoy problem solving and researching the chosen audience, including how to engage them and creating concepts that will move them to take action.

I also enjoy storytelling through imagery and messaging. I’m constantly writing bits of copy on scraps of paper. For me, the words are as important as the imagery. I also do the odd hand-drawn illustration, although this is rare – I’m very detail-focussed and this can take time (one thing most designers are short of). I’m currently sharpening my skills in Adobe CC Illustrator.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Sail Creative team?
We’re a small, close-knit team. Plus, the clients and the sector are great. We get some lovely projects through the door, as well as clients that – with our guidance – are willing to push boundaries. Exciting.

What advice would you give to a young creative wanting to do the same kind of work?
Be human and care; find your passion. It’s not necessarily about creating the most polished design, it’s about problem solving, empathy and connecting with the audience. Let go of your perfectionism (I’m still learning this – and if you are too read Feck Purfuction).

Getting your first job in the industry can be hard. How can you stand out? Putting in the effort takes time, but it’s worth it. Be prepared to get a part-time job outside of the industry and focus on your practice in your spare time. Don’t give up, don’t let anyone tell you what is best for you, and remember, you learn more from your failures than you do successes.

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This interview is part of a series of articles profiling Newcastle-based studio, Sail Creative. See the In the Studio With interview here.