How to Prepare for an Interview with a Creative Director

In March 2019, technology giant Apple invited journalists to the Steve Jobs Theater in California for a product announcement conference that did not feature a new iPhone, iPad, MacBook, or even an operating system upgrade. Instead of devices, macOS or iOS, Apple introduced a range of services centered on digital content: music, films, series, documentaries, games, podcasts, magazines, news, and more. Quite a few celebrities were on hand to announce that they were working on exclusive projects to be featured on Apple’s new content networks. Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, and even basketball superstar Kevin Durant were among the guests of honor, and the event had an overall feeling of glitz that made Apple investors very happy about the company’s future.

For Florida International University students enrolled in the Global Strategic Communications Creative Track at the School of Communication + Journalism, news about Apple entering the digital content world in earnest should also make them happy about their career prospects. Digital content not only requires creation, but also promotion and marketing. This opens quite a few opportunities for graduates of this program. Some of you will likely pursue employment as advertising art directors, a career move that will require building a portfolio.

How to Build an Advertising Art Director Portfolio

As an aspiring art director, you will be expected to present a killer portfolio to prospective employers. Your portfolio allows employers to see your skills and originality, and it helps them determine if you are a good fit. Here are a few recommendations to help you get started on building a solid portfolio:

Why Do I Need A Portfolio

This is an industry standard. Employers will want to see your artistic capabilities; you can expect them to ask for a digital portfolio, but you should also think about having a traditional, hard copy version available in case an interviewer wants to test your sensibilities towards retro and vintage themes. Naturally, websites are fast, easy and convenient ways for anyone to access your portfolio, and they can streamline the interview process with just a link. Whenever possible, use URL shortening services that allow some level of personal branding.

Picking a Web Platform to Showcase Your Work

Many sites allow you to create online portfolios. Narratively and Medium are often recommended to digital content authors who focus on the written word, Vimeo is ideal for those who work with videos, Behance is for graphic and web designers, and Crevado seems to be tailor-made for advertising professionals. You can always go the more hands-on route and choose a WordPress portfolio theme that you can customize to show off web design skills.

Add Your Best Work

Once you’ve chosen a platform that best works for you, it is time to add content. You will want to spend some time with this because you want the strongest examples of work that highlight your skills and creativity. Include a breakdown of the creative approach you took for each project to showcase your strategic thinking. FIU students in the GSC program are assigned projects that they can include in their portfolios. To learn more about this program, get in touch with us today.

Do Include Accolades

If you’ve won awards, be sure to include them in your portfolio. Employers will remember who you are and it helps you to stand out from other job candidates.

Target Your Goal

Tailor your portfolio to the industry you want to work in. For example, if you want to work for Adidas, then featuring samples of artwork that include shoes or sports apparel will draw more attention to hiring managers. Employers will appreciate that you took out the time to research their company.

Develop Your Personal Brand

Your portfolio is a representation of your personal brand. Take time to think about what you want your viewers to take away after looking through your portfolio, be sure to add unique and personalized twists.

Versatility Goes a Long Way

Showing artistic flexibility can improve marketability. If you have designed mobile app user interface layouts as well as flyer brochures, for example, make sure you include both if they are reasonably strong representations of your talent and skills. Including a wide range of work, samples show that you’re able to execute many tasks.

Hello, My Name Is

Every good online portfolio needs an “about me” section. This is a great way to introduce yourself and get personal by sharing your interests and goals.

Please Hire Me!

Don’t forget a “contact me” page that includes your email, number, and social media profiles. As a GSC Creative Track graduate, you know about the power of the call to action message, and this is your opportunity to put it to work.

FIU’s Global Strategic Communications (GSC) – Creative Track

The Global Strategic Communications Creative Track is a 39-credit program that culminates in a Master of Science in Mass Communications degree awarded by Florida International University and graduation from world-renowned Miami Ad School’s portfolio program. The interdisciplinary program combines graduate-level academic courses with the creative skills-building curriculum taught by the leading portfolio school in the world. Contact program director, Grizelle de Los Reyes for more information.