What difficulties did you face at the beginning of your career?
I faced an enormous amount of rejection. I was also tremendously insecure (still am, but less so), and took everything personally (still do, but less so).
What should a young designer do in order not to get hired by anybody?
Arrogance is a complete turn-off. It’s probably best not to curse in an interview unless you are meeting with James Victore, Joshua Davis or Aaron Draplin. And at all costs, avoid the following:
— Fingerprints and spelling mistakes on your résumé.
— Showing up late.
— Apologizing for any of the work in your portfolio (take out anything you don’t love and ask everyone who looks at your portfolio this question: what one piece of work should I take OUT of this portfolio? You don’t have to do it, but if more than two people tell you to take out the same thing, I’d recommend listening!).
— Lie and/or pretend to know something that they don’t.
— Talk negatively about anyone!
Are there any things you wish you knew at the beginning of your career?
I wish I knew that anything worthwhile takes a long time. I wish I knew that things would turn out okay by the time I was in my forties. I wish I knew enough not to be so afraid to go after what I really wanted.
Are there any rules or habits that help you do your job more efficiently?
— LISTS!
— A paper calendar I write on with pencil (only).
— Finish what I start before starting something new.
Would you recommend some books that young designers might find useful?
ANYTHING or everything from this list.