Career Resources for Creatives
Books
The Career Guide for Creative and Unconventional People
Carol Eikleberry (4th Edition, Ten Speed Press, 2015}
Offering realistic and novel advice to quirky and artistic people seeking fulfilling careers, Eikleberry lists more than 240 outside-the-box job titles, including entrepreneurial options.
Creating a Life Worth Living: A Practical Course in Career Design for Aspiring Writers, Artists, Filmmakers, Musicians and Others
Carol Lloyd (Harper Collins, 2012)
Dreaming is easy. Making it happen is hard. With a fresh perspective, Carol Lloyd motivates the person searching for two things: the creative life and a life of sanity, happiness and financial solvency.
The Freelancer's Bible
Sara Horowitz (Workman Publishing Company, 2012)
Amazingly, one-third of the workforce is freelance―42 million people who wrestle with finding work, collecting payment and health care, paying taxes, etc. This trusty guide will show new freelancers the ropes and help seasoned freelancers grow and expand.
The Renaissance Soul: How to Make Your Passions Your Life―A Creative and Practical Guide
Margaret Lobenstine (Broadway, 2013)
Lobenstine offers a life-planning strategy in tune with those who fear becoming “a jack-of-all-trades and master of none.” Discover how to design a vibrant, fulfilling life, manage your time the Renaissance Soul way, thrive on many interests without feeling scattered, and carry your dreams forward no matter your day job.
Job Postings (Freelance and Employment)
- AIGA Job Board. In addition to positions for all levels of graphic designers, AIGA job postings include UX designer, creative director, traffic manager, and design instructors.
- Craigslist. You will find here the most complete list of creative jobs in the area. Craigslist discussion forums provide a venue to ask for free feedback: So, how long did it take you to get QuickBooks going for your freelance business? Does anyone know a good proofreader who will barter for a massage?
- Mac’s List. Mac Prichard of Prichard Communications moderates a listserv for job postings in communications, public affairs and politics. Subscribe to the weekly newsletter to join others in Salem, Eugene and Portland metro who post and/or receive job listings. While you're there, check out the blog; I'm one of the writers.
- Mathys+Potestio was founded by two creative industry veterans who’ve worked as copywriters, designers, project managers, and account managers. If you have advanced creative skills, they will interview you to see if you match one of their numerous jobs in Portland creative agencies and departments, including Nike.
- Northwest Independent Editors Guild provides a very active listing of people seeking editors.
- pdxMindshare. In addition to posting traditional design and copywriting positions, pdxMindshare's job board includes widespread positions in marketing, software engineering, and other technical specialties. They also host several networking events each month.
- Portland Creative List has an active job board listing internships, part time, and full time employment, both permanent and temporary.
- The Regional Arts and Culture Council (RACC) has done hours of work for you by culling local job postings (both employment and freelance) from a wide range of sources. These postings are in the “information services” section under “employment.”
Standout Resources for Freelancers
My freelancing creative clients attend the following to stay up-to-date and network with other creatives. Let me know if you have another hot one to add.
- AIGA Events. Because four of my creative clients have served on the AIGA board, I have often heard “morning after stories” about fun-loving, helpful programs. Programs range from its quarterly studio tours to dMob, an informal monthly social gathering in its tenth year.
- Creative Mornings is a breakfast lecture series for the creative community with monthly events at the Portland Art Museum. All events are free and a great opportunity to network with other creatives.
- Design Week. During one week in October, Design Week Portland explores the process, craft, and practice of design across disciplines as seen through the lens of local and national creative leaders.
- Freelancers Union is a national organization expanding in Portland. Their focus is to support workers to build meaningful, connected, and independent lives. They offer educational and networking events for freelancers, insurance options, and a community directory for freelancers to thrive.
- Meetup.com is a network of self-organized local groups. Portland-based creative meetup groups include SEO Tips and Tactics and many more. Some groups are more active than others, but you're sure to find a group for your creative specialty—and if not, you can create one!
- Oregon Media Production Association (OMPA) brings together Oregon’s commercial, film and TV professionals. Programs provide forums for networking and professional development as well as advocating for local business development in the industry. OMPA publishes and distributes a comprehensive directory of videographers, screen writers, producers, director etc, to help businesses locate talent.