Creative Ways to Get Illustration Jobs: Part 2
Build Relationships With Fellow Illustrators
Another incredibly creative way to find self-publishing clients comes when getting to know colleagues in the creative industries. Too many times, we assume these other artists are our competition for jobs and we isolate ourselves from them. The best way to pursue another illustrator is not with the end goal of getting jobs in mind.
Be an encourager. Find ways to lift up and share success with other artists. Friendship is the end goal!
The side benefit to friendship is that the best projects can come from a fellow illustrator with a fully-booked schedule and they decide to defer the work to you! If you can demonstrate you are a capable replacement by your skill level and you have made enough genuine connections, the jobs seem to fall into your lap when you need them most!
When success does come your way, remember who helped you out and be sure to return the favor one day.
PARTNER UP WITH A GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Also, another place that jobs can come your way is through developing a co-working relationship with a Graphic Designer. While some illustrators try spreading themselves thin by formatting and designing their own books, I have taken a purposeful approach in my client on-boarding process that requires my authors to hire a designer to allow me to focus on my expertise.
Working with an experienced book designer has allows three benefits:
1.) The project always turns out more professional looking
2.) You learn a huge amount about design principles
3.) You get invited into their new projects
A bonus benefit is that it is just a lot more fun to work on a project with another person… because we all know illustration can get lonely!
WHO SHOULD YOU REACH OUT TO?
Think of an instagram artist or designer you follow that you wish you could draw just like. Instead of harboring jealousy - try reaching out and saying hi! One thing to consider when thinking about who is a well-suited match for you is to consider the amount of “Followers” they have. If this person has over 10,000 followers they are likely overwhelmed with messages containing time-sucking requests and asking for free advice. However, there are plenty of very talented illustrators that are working professionals with time to answer you.
FIND SOMEONE SIMILAR IN STAGE OF CAREER
If they are too far ahead of you in skill, it will not work well for you to have a mutual relationship with them because you will constantly be the one taking instead of giving. You don’t want to be the person always asking for a favor, but rather a source of encouragement and support.
The first time you approach someone else should never be to ask for something from them for free, it’s a huge turn-off. Instead, tell them what you love about their work or offer sympathy about a struggle they have shared about.
Other illustrators and designers can become the best friends you have. You will find people who know exactly what you go through on a daily basis!
In Part 1 and now in Part 2, I’ve explained how making relationships can bring you illustration clients. Adopting a service-based mindset toward your career is a sure way to get more opportunities.
And better yet… you will learn some valuable things from amazing people all along the way.
If you liked this advice, there is more coming! Let me know in the comments if you have a certain topic you want to know more about. I would love to know what you think.
Beth Snider is an illustrator in the Kansas City area of the U.S. with over a decade of experience in art and illustration. She works with business owners and authors to develop their brands and strategize creative marketing solutions. Right now, Beth is scheduling personalized portfolio reviews for a special offer of $26 each… Sign up here.