Job hunting can be daunting, and landing a job unrelated to your course might feel disappointing. But don’t worry—it can be a positive stepping stone! That first job might give you skills you never knew you needed, bringing you closer to your dream career. We interviewed UAL graduates to inspire you!
Meet Jordan Hall, a 2019 Graphic Design Communication graduate from Chelsea College of Art.
What do you currently do employment-wise?
During my studies, I founded a clothing/lifestyle brand called FORE. Two months ago, I left my 9-5 job to focus on scaling and developing my brand, with hopes to build it into an extensive creative community network and platform.
What was your first job?
I got my first job at the age of 16 at Office shoe shop.
Are any of the skills you gained from your first job still useful?
Before working in retail, I had the most crippling social anxiety and was way too shy to speak to strangers. Having that job forced me into developing my social skills, approaching customers and holding conversations with people I had just met. This is such a valuable skill for a young person to learn and only now, looking back, can I realise how beneficial it has been in developing myself as an individual and a professional.
What advice would you give to creatives who are currently working a non-creative job to make a living?
Find a Balance: Use your time wisely. When you trade time for money, they often conflict—you either work more and earn more or work less to focus on your passion but sacrifice money. Find the balance that suits you and avoid burnout.
Keep Your Passion: It’s easy to lose sight of what matters in the working world. Remember, life is short and money comes and goes. Pursue your creative ventures with determination, and success will follow.
Extract Value: Find a non-creative job that offers indirect benefits, like access to equipment, networking opportunities, or training. Leverage these to support your creative journey. Jobs are temporary, dreams are forever.
For those in this situation, reach out to me or my brand, FORE. We support those starting their creative careers or business ventures without the necessary experience, resources, or network. FORE is a platform for collaboration and supporting emerging talent.
If you are looking for opportunities to gain experience to start your career, why not check out Creative Opportunities? Run by Careers and Employability, it is the go-to hub for creative students and graduates. You can find jobs, paid internships, competitions, and volunteering roles. If you are studying an art, design, communications, or a performance course or have recently graduated, then this is the place for you! Our goal is to help you achieve your ambitions and make a living doing what you love.