Revisiting our Creative Lives interviews has revealed a wealth of inspiration, with each conversation concluding in two essential questions: “What’s the best career-related advice you’ve ever received?” and “What advice would you give to someone looking to get into a similar role?”. These questions never fail to prompt honest, practical and often surprising answers.

When we looked back, we noticed that the responses naturally fell into six key themes. Far from being just empty buzzwords, these insights are actively shaping the careers of the creatives who shared them. Read on for real, actionable advice that will not only help you navigate today’s creative world but inspire you – wherever you're at in your journey.

Creativity thrives on collaboration. Many of our interviewees highlighted the importance of building relationships and learning from others to fuel your creative journey.

• “If you’re sat stuck on a brief, don’t be afraid to grab a colleague and pick their brain – creativity requires us to learn from each other.”
  – Jojo Agbi, Strategy Executive at The Goat Agency
  
  
• “Be open to possibilities and get yourself out there as much as you can. Knowing people and making connections is what led me to my bootcamp, which is then what led me to getting my first job.”
  – Yousuf Khan, Junior Designer at Anna Freud
  
  
• “Build industry relationships. Go to industry events, join groups and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Networking can open valuable doors.”
  – David Kamara, Freelance Founder and Producer
  
  
• ”Go to as many networking events as you can. You could also have someone reach out on your behalf as I find that people are much more willing to take meetings when someone they know has recommended them.“
  – Anthony Ray Caballero, Feature Film Development Assistant, Working Title Films

Sometimes, the best opportunities come when you take risks and step outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to take the plunge and try something new, even if it’s intimidating.

• “The best advice I’ve received was from a mentor who said to throw yourself into things that scare you. If it’s scary, it’s worth doing, and there are always people that will want to help. You’d be surprised at how generous people can be with their knowledge and their time.”
  – Olimpia Pignatti, Designer at Anomaly
  
  
• “With photography, you just have to start shooting. Get on Pinterest and figure out some simple ideas then find a friend to execute the idea with. The beginning is always about figuring out your style. That can only be achieved by doing!”
  – Jasmine Engel-Malone, Freelance Photographer
  
  
• “Start creating! Whether it’s good or bad, just begin. You will never know what your creative voice is until you try. Slowly build up a portfolio, and know that it’s not an overnight thing. It may take months or years before you find your feet, but just remember to not compare yourself to other people.”
  – Jessica Lee, Freelance Illustrator

Many interviewees this year named self-awareness and authenticity as qualities that helped them get ahead in their work. The key here is knowing your strengths and staying true to your unique perspective

• “Never, and I mean never, stop learning. This industry is vibrant, popping and in constant motion with new things. New software pops up left, right and centre, especially with AI now in the picture. Your fire for learning and curiosity should never ever be dimmed.”
  – Kemal Raif, Junior UI Designer at Sky
  
  
• “The best advice for someone looking to get into a similar role is to be proactive and eager to learn. Show that you’re open to growth and willing to learn, as employers often want to grow with you as you grow with them.”
  – Teo Albert, Junior Designer at Action Rocket
  
  
• “Keep being curious. It’s so important to keep your finger on the pulse and have a curiosity when looking for references that can take you outside the box.”
  – Kai Gillespie, Content Editor at Miista and Freelance Videographer, Photographer and Art Director

• “Learn as much as you can about the role you would like to get into. This includes both the creative and business side of things. My journey has been one of discovery. This involved a lot of experimenting with software, learning legalities and trial and error.”
  – Kofi Nelson, Freelance Multimedia Designer
  
  
• “Don’t look for quick gratification and external validation, but focus on what matters to you; what you’re curious about.”
  – Lavinia Keller, Storyteller and Filmmaker

Exploring new areas and experimenting with different paths can lead to invaluable experiences. Here’s what our interviewees have to say about stepping out of your comfort zone, embracing change, and building your career.

• “Try different things out and see how and where you would like to position yourself. Start building a genuine network of collaborators. Pace yourself, but keep yourself open — moving, doing, learning.”
  – April Lin 林森, Artist and Independent Curator

• “Learn to pivot, adapt and improvise! You’ll make mistakes along the way, but it’s important to understand the difference between making mistakes and not being made for something. As someone who often spirals into imposter syndrome, it takes me time to recognise when I make an error due to a lack of focus or misjudgement, as opposed to realising that I’m simply not a good fit for a medium, process or environment.”
  – Maria Than, Co-Founder of Ricebox Studio
  
  
• “Don’t hesitate to explore different areas of the industry. When you’re starting out, finding the perfect job can be incredibly difficult, and landing it is another challenge altogether. By applying to various spheres, you’ll gain experience from different angles of the industry, which will ultimately help shape and broaden your creative approach.”
  – Jamilya Kulambayeva, Midweight Designer at Wolff Olins

Self-awareness and authenticity can help you stand out in a crowded creative industry. Knowing your strengths and staying true to your unique perspective will set you apart.

• “Know yourself and understand your unique perspective, then network hard... Knowing, owning and sharing your story helps.”
  – Bisi Ajala, Junior Planner at Drummond Central
  
  
• "Without self-promoting and being unapologetically myself, my clients wouldn’t have reached out... It’s what sets me apart and what people come to me for."
  – Arlo West, Freelance Graphic Designer and Founder of Studio Arlo

• “The best advice I ever got was that by being myself I'm bringing something new to the table. Advertising is just about representing people.”
  – Lucy Cooper, Creator at VCCP
  
  
• “Find what you like and stay true to that. Don’t let people change your vision to fit theirs.”
  – Alistair Nicholls, Freelance Stop-Motion Animator and Director

Self-doubt and imposter syndrome are common, but it’s important to remember that setbacks don’t define you. Be patient with yourself and keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.

• “The funny thing is that when I did get my job at ITV, I felt a sense of imposter syndrome due to having been rejected so many times before. Fortunately, I’ve been able to overcome this with good friends and colleagues, as they’ve helped me understand that I am here for a reason.”
  – Jonathan Clarke-Ezzidio, Junior Multi-Skilled Creative at ITV Creative
  
  
• “After struggling with self-confidence and imposter syndrome, developing my skills away from other people worked wonders. It meant I didn't have an anxious voice in my head telling me everyone was watching me struggle.”
  – Rina Kulemeka, Junior Creative Artworker at The Onlii
  
  
• “Look after yourself and keep at it. Rejection sucks, but it doesn’t mean the time and work you’ve put in has completely gone to waste. Luck plays a huge factor in job hunting as much as skill does, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself.”
  – Ian Chan, 2D Character and FX Animator
  
  
• ”One of my favourite quotes is: “Don’t expect to have a seat at the table, take your own chair.” This is about self-confidence and showcasing what makes you unique. Don’t stress over the short-term barriers; remain focused on your end goal and the steps you need to take to get there.“
  – Paolo Orazietti, Design Director at Elmwood