Get set your new year resolutions by adding and establishing some professional goals. Setting goals are crucial progress, especially when it comes to business or career. Here are a few of my professional goals for 2016. These are the things that work well on becoming a better drafter and designer this year.
Best Drafter or Designer in your Field
If the above goals resonate with you, feel free to adopt and implement them in your professional career.There could always be something new to learn, and with all the resources available online, it would be more accessible than ever. One needs to learn something new about design, drafting, business, entrepreneurship, teamwork, marketing regularly.
CONTRIBUTE, DON’T CONSUME
If you’re looking to work in a large office that is set from home as a freelancer, there would be a time when you’ll find yourself working as a team. There would be nothing worse than a passive team member. Consumes but never contributes, also make it a goal to become more active in your team and contribute.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO TRY NEW THINGS
There’s this old saying, “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it”, is true, but don’t let it stop you from trying new things. Sometimes it would be a good thing to get out of our comfort zone and try something new and different. Maybe it would be taken into a different design process, new marketing strategy or as simple as a new workstation layout. Trying new things is always an excellent way to challenge and help yourself grow.
NETWORK MORE
In the last and a half year of running my drafting and design firm, we noticed networking is one crucial thing that’s needed to grow businesses with ease. Instead, it would help set up a workstation to meet new people and discuss the requirements. We should take this as an opportunity to find outside our comfort zone. Get ready to grow your network with another freelancer, business owner, drafter and designer.
ASK FOR HELP
Back to my first statement, “you don’t know everything”. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but rather a vital growth step. It’s always important to have mentors from who you can seek advice. If you don’t have one already, make it a goal to find a mentor this year. Hey, maybe it’s going to be one of the new things that you try!
TAKE TIME OFF MORE OFTEN
It could be easy to forget about work/life balance when you’re passionate about what you do. Mainly, it’s true when working from home, let this year add a new year when you set aside a reasonable amount of time for your family and friends and get time to recharge.
CELEBRATE THE WINS
Always look for things that can be improved with fixing. It’s not necessarily a bad characteristic but can hurt you and your business. Therefore, why not celebrate our wins rather than be demotivated from our failures. Set a goal to celebrate the successes, even if they are small. When one finishes a project, celebrate it. Celebrate if you have landed a perfect job or found a new client.
How to be Best Drafter or Designer in your Field
- Master the Basics: Start by learning the fundamental principles of drafting and design. Understand the software tools used in your industry, such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, or other specialized software.
- Education and Training: Pursue formal education or training in drafting and design. Consider enrolling in relevant courses, workshops, or obtaining a degree in a related field like architecture, engineering, graphic design, or industrial design.
- Practice Regularly: Practice is crucial to improving your skills. Dedicate time to drawing, designing, and drafting regularly. Take on personal projects to challenge yourself and explore new techniques.
- Seek Feedback: Share your work with mentors, peers, or online communities to receive constructive feedback. Being open to criticism will help you identify areas for improvement.
- Stay Updated: Design trends and software tools change rapidly, so make it a point to stay updated with the latest advancements and industry best practices. Follow design blogs, attend conferences, and participate in webinars to stay informed.
- Study Other Designers: Learn from the work of other successful designers in your field. Analyze their techniques, styles, and approaches to gain insights into what makes their designs stand out.
- Develop a Unique Style: While learning from others is essential, strive to develop your unique style and signature approach to design. Finding your creative voice can set you apart from others in the field.
- Collaborate and Network: Engage with other professionals in your industry, attend design events, and join professional organizations. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and expose you to different perspectives.
- Accept Challenges: Don’t be afraid to take on challenging projects that push your boundaries. Overcoming obstacles and tackling complex designs will help you grow as a drafter or designer.
- Be Persistent and Patient: Becoming the best in your field takes time and persistence. Keep working on improving your skills, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks or rejections.
- Showcase Your Work: Build a strong portfolio that showcases your best projects. Your portfolio will be a crucial tool in attracting clients or potential employers.
- Embrace Continuous Learning: The field of drafting and design is always evolving. Stay curious and keep learning new techniques and technologies throughout your career.
If you need help regarding design and drafting services, please do not hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us at 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) in Australia globally.