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The biggest killer is self-doubt. I’ve seen so many artists who have amazing portfolios sabotage themselves because they’ve convinced themselves they’ll never get hired. Go into the interview like you’re a professional, even if you’ve never done any freelance work in your life. It doesn’t matter if it’s a multi-million dollar studio; they’re dealing with people, just like you.
Your portfolio is your ticket in. Tailor it to the brief you’re looking for; show them you’re the missing piece in their creative puzzle. I once told an art director I loved to paint when they were actually looking for a line work artist, and the interview was basically done from that moment on.
Don’t neglect networking. Attend events, mingle, and show off your art. Most people’s first jobs come through contacts. I got my first job through a friend I met at an anime convention. You never know!
Remember, they are hiring a human, not a robot. If they are happy with your artwork, they will look to you next! So always be a respectful, decent human being.
This content originally appeared in ImagineFX magazine, the world’s leading digital and fantasy art magazine. ImagineFX is available in the UK, Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and more. A limited number of ImagineFX print issues are available for delivery from our Online shop (shipping costs are included in all prices).
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