Visiting Professional - Abbie Moakes

Abbie Moaks is a designer at Creative Communications Agency We Are Vista, which specialises in events though is expanding into design and film. She graduated 2 years ago from Leeds Arts University.

Notes

• Starting out, Abbie tried to make her CV and portfolio different, with more 'edge.'
• She found her first internship and job on LinkedIn.
• Whilst at LAU, gained industry experience from Ralph The Agency.
• First Job at UYR, a full service print and design facility in Pontefract - working typically across the bar, restaurant and dining sector.
• Now works at We Are Vista as a junior designer. 

As a junior designer, Abbie works on art working, idents, and collateral. She works with more senior designers and the head of design, though is given opportunities to work individually.

Advice

• When looking for design jobs, look at turn around times - how frequently people stay at the job for. This usually indicates if the studio/agency has progression potentials or if roles are short-lived.
• Know what it is you are looking for in a studio.
• Explore recruitment agencies - Craft, Type and Book.
• Use LinkedIn - Its not what you know, its who you know.
• Go to portfolio reviews - WPA Pinfold.
• Networking is key.
• Ensure you have business cards, especially important for the End of Year Show.
• Don't disregard larger agencies. 
• Artworking is part of the job.
• Deadlines are tight.
• Hard work is rewarding.
• You should have around 8 pieces of work in your portfolio.