We had a brief but informative visit from Iain Lauder, who is the Creative Director of Redpath Design. Iain had prepared a very honest lecture on the 10 things that he reckoned we should be keeping in mind at all times:

1) Get faster. Think you work fast at art school? Try working to a deadline of 2 days instead of 2 weeks.

2) Be curious. All the time – it’s our curiousity in things that will keep our ideas fresh.

3) Don’t apologise. You have to believe in yourself before you can expect anyone else to!

4) Be flexible. Always.

5) Be a sponge. šŸ™‚ You’re not stealing ideas, but you can be inspired and recreate some of the things you love about other works you love. It’s always good to try new things.

6) If you don’t know, don’t pretend. If you are being briefed on a new project and don’t understand something – just ask! It’s better to find out there and then than going spending time later trying to figure it out!

7) Check the brief again and again. Even if you think that what you are doing is prefect, check the brief again,just incase.

8) Always have more than oneĀ idea. If you show 5 ideas and 1 is picked (that you didn’t neccesarily liked) or you show 1 idea (that you love, but the client hates) you’re always going to be in a better position.

9) Be organised. This is crucial. Kick that procrastination habit now.

10) Don’t give up.

Iain also spoke about tendering. He advised us that you cannot rely on your reputation to get work. You must always be prepared with new ideas and strategies. Stay creative! At the same time you should keep up with your research constantly – make sure you know about all the trends that are happening (and not just in your own discipline!) And please, always give yourself enough time – ahhĀ the importance of being organised!