This week, we were introduced to our first semester topic, Professional Practice, taken by Daniel, where we focused on employability skills. We explored how to effectively present our CVs, ensuring they highlight the most relevant information for design roles. We also examined cover letters, learning how to adapt them to specific job positions we’re interested in. Additionally, we were introduced to a range of research resources to support our work throughout the semester, aimed at improving our critical awareness of the design industry, including key topics and trends that will shape our future careers. I’m excited to use these skills and tools when designing my own CV as well as apply for design roles for my future career and placement.
To begin our lecture with Daniel, we looked into the process of getting hired for a job. This included understanding what we need to include in our CVs, why a strong CV is important, and how to ensure we meet the criteria set out in job descriptions. We also discussed how to identify and choose the right job roles that suit our skills and ambitions. After this, we explored how to create tailored cover letters for specific positions, before finishing with an introduction to a range of resources that will support our research this semester and strengthen our awareness of the design industry, its trends, and our future career paths. I found this quite helpful as it gave me an insight into how I can approach several companies I’d like to work for and the process that comes with it. Shown below is an example of an approach we could use when writing our CV information and the relevance behind it.
As part of the lecture, we were given a job description activity where we paired up and each received a Post-it note with a hidden job role written on it. The challenge was to ask up to 20 questions each until we could figure out which role we had been given. Between Christopher and me, we were given the roles of Veterinarian and Event Planner. This task highlighted the importance of understanding the key qualities of a job and the skills that make up the role, helping us get into the right mindset for assessing our own strengths and areas for growth. I found it both enjoyable and challenging; my role to guess was Event Planner. Although I asked the right questions, I didn’t manage to state the exact role, but through the activity, I gained new insights into how job roles are defined and how these qualities link back to the hiring process.
work with people - yes
working environment - yes
help people - yes
use a computer - no
creative role - yes
Do you design - yes
long period of studying for a job - yes
Do you draw - yes
We also looked at cover letters and their purpose within the application process. A cover letter acts as an introduction to the person receiving your application, giving you the chance to explain why you’re interested in their company specifically. It’s also an opportunity to highlight what I am good at, summarise my experience so far, and show how my aspirations align with what the company can offer. I found this particularly relevant to me, as it helped me see how I can present not just my skills but also my genuine interest in a role or company. It reminded me that employers value candidates who understand and connect with their organisation, and that tailoring my application can make me stand out more effectively. Previously, I didn’t have much knowledge about what a cover letter was, but now I feel more confident in producing one myself.
Continuing, we looked at how important it is to research a company when applying for a job. This includes understanding factors such as the size of the company and number of employees, its structure across departments and divisions, and the locations it operates in. We also explored how a company’s website, news items, and any awards or recognitions can provide insight into its reputation and culture. Another key point was to check whether they offer graduate training programmes, as well as opportunities for training, progression, and promotion. Doing this type of research not only shows a genuine interest in the company but also helps us decide whether it is the right fit for our own career development. I also found shown below, a blog website that provided additional information on how to get in contact with a company, more so for a design agency, which helped shaped my train of thought especially now as I’m beginning to think of companies and agencies to apply to for placement and internships during my time of studying.
Towards the end of class, Daniel got us all involved in a collaborative workshop activity focused on employability and workplace fulfilment. As a group, we each wrote on post-it notes the attributes we would hope to find in a potential job, colleagues, or place of employment — with one attribute per note. I found this activity very interactive, as it encouraged me to really explore my own thought process around design and career values. It also helped me articulate a good number of design-related statements that I was able to contribute to the board, giving me a clearer picture of what I personally value in a future role and working environment.