I’ve been working in the graphic design business since before I graduated from college back in 1998. This is just when digital layouts were taking hold and Quark Xpress was the layout application of choice (despite its constant crashing). In fact, I learned how to use Illustrator by having to digitally trace scanned camera ready illustrations to create vector files for a large surgical blade manufacturer as they transitioned to digital layouts. These things were legit: gouache on clay illustration board, with that little flap of tissue paper to keep them safe. Perfect for mastering that finicky Bezier tool. But, I digress.
Since those internship/junior designer days, I have worked the gamut of positions—from small, two-person design studios to large in-house departments, but have always kept my foot in the freelance pool. The reason I did so was, at first, the extra cash, then, as a stay-at-home mom of small children, the flexibility of schedule (and my sanity). Now, it’s something different: The work.
Not to brag, but through the years, I have logged enough accolades and hours to secure a rather high-ranking position in pretty much any marketing or design department. But, I’ve recently realized why I don’t want that. It’s no longer the flexibility and the whole, “I’m my own boss” benefit, though, those are nice too. Looking at the job descriptions of these higher management positions, I realize while I would gain an impressive title, I would lose the job satisfaction. My life would become all meetings and strategy, budget allocation and brand policing. With the better title, little remains of the work of a designer.
As a freelancer, not only do I have the luxury of choosing which projects and clients I work with, but I DO the work. I’m responsible for the creative direction and its execution, and that’s why I love what I do. So why would I give that up?
Not only do I enjoy this work, but my skills are in demand. Clients are tired of working with unseasoned contractors who die on the wrong hills when it comes to creative integrity. Every client I work with not only appreciates my aesthetic and end-product, but my professionalism and process.
For now, I’m not looking to climb the corporate ladder, just my own personal staircase (I’ve got to put the laundry in the dryer in a minute). And, I don’t see it as a lack of career ambition. I am channeling my years of experience to better the work I do, to invest in my own skills—not to supervise someone else’s.
Jessica Schindhelm Design 