Your first job is just that – your first job
— The above is a bold statement, but let me explain.
The journey of an industrial designer can feel like diving into a sea of possibilities. I started my career with what I like to call "shiny coin syndrome" – an insatiable curiosity that led me to explore every facet of industrial design. The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to kickstarting your career. You might find yourself in a corporate setting, diving into freelance projects, or like me, joining a design agency that offered the freedom to explore and evolve.
The Odyssey of Shiny Coin Syndrome In the realm of industrial design, "shiny coin syndrome" isn't a diagnosis but a delightful affliction. It's that urge to learn something new and dive deep into its intricacies. Early in my career, it meant embracing a multitude of design avenues – a strategy that has shaped my journey. At first, I remember being interested in the beauty landscape, so I offered up concept consulting services to fellow peers. Then I dove into the health and wellness aspect, taking on a key approachable niche into designing for women. Today, I still have the remaining curiosity to try new aspects to design.
Embrace the Diversity Early in your career, it's unlikely that you'll know which aspects of product design will resonate most with you, have staying power, or maintain your interest. That's okay. Gain experience across various domains. Step outside your comfort zone. Become adept at many things, not just one. Every skill you acquire helps navigate your expertise into your niche. It’s important to remember that you're not going to be great at everything at first, and that’s okay.
The Canvas of Expertise In industrial design, the avenues are diverse. You will encounter individuals who primarily enjoy creating commercial products, thriving in UI (User-Interface) design, or creating immersive exhibits. Some become skilled technicians, design researchers, or even embark on the entrepreneurial journey. Recognize your unique skill sets, find your niche, and let it flourish. No matter what, keep trying. You might experience a new skillset you enjoy.
Beyond the First Job Beyond the excitement of your first job, remember that burnout is real and can stifle creativity. I recently took a health sabbatical, stepping away from the creative world to recharge. This pause allowed me to refocus on my core values within the creative realm and explore personal niches I'm thrilled to dive into. I’ll be forever grateful for all the skills I learned and adapted during my position. They’re definitely teachable moments, but I’m excited to put my old and new skills together now in a new light.
Learn, Grow, Repeat Your first job is your inaugural experience, a launchpad for learning and growth. Embrace the journey, gather insights, and evolve. The diverse avenues of industrial design are worth exploring, and as you navigate through them, each experience, challenge, and triumph will contribute to the your career. So, dive in, learn, grow, and let the new skillsets unfold.
