Burn Your Portfolio by Michael Janda cover

Burn Your Portfolio

Stuff They Don’t Teach You in Design School, but Should

by Michael Janda

4.6(335 ratings)
8 min read

Brief overview

This book takes you beyond the art school lessons and delves into the practical realities of being a professional designer. It covers everything from honing your people skills to effectively managing clients and projects. Expect a friendly mix of motivational tips and real-world tactics you can start applying right away.

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Introduction

Welcome to a world where design school theories meet everyday realities. In this summary, we’ll explore the key professional insights that fill the gap between academic training and a truly successful career.

It’s easy to assume your impressive portfolio guarantees success, yet many designers find themselves unprepared for challenges like client relations, pricing estimates, and tight deadlines. Knowing how to talk to clients and handle unexpected changes is often what really moves the needle.

In the pages ahead, you’ll find guidance on creating better client experiences, polishing projects properly, and making sure you get paid what you deserve. Think of these lessons as your fast track from design student to creative pro.

School teaches you how to create good work; real life teaches you how to turn that skill into a thriving career.

People Skills Over Portfolio

Many designers believe their portfolio is the be-all and end-all. But in reality, strong interpersonal skills will often trump raw talent. Clients want to know you can listen, collaborate, and respond respectfully to feedback.

Simple acts such as smiling, remembering names, or offering a small kindness can open huge doors. One small favor or moment of generosity can establish loyalty that leads to long-term relationships and referrals.

Be quick to apply good manners and professional courtesy. Follow up promptly, meet deadlines, and show gratitude after every project. These soft skills lead to stronger word-of-mouth and repeat business.

Genuine kindness is currency that pays dividends in future opportunities.

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What is Burn Your Portfolio about?

"Burn Your Portfolio: Stuff They Don’t Teach You in Design School, but Should" by Michael Janda is a refreshing guide tailored for designers looking to navigate the challenging transition from academia to the bustling world of professional design. This book delves into the essential skills and strategies not typically emphasized in art school, empowering designers to bridge the gap between theory and practice with practical wisdom. It highlights the need for vital interpersonal and business skills, giving readers the tools they need to thrive in creative environments.

The book emphasizes the multifaceted nature of design careers, where talent alone isn't enough to sustain success. Through a mix of humorous anecdotes and real-world insights, Janda elucidates the realities of dealing with clients, managing projects, and overcoming unexpected obstacles. The book’s central thesis that empathy and communication often outweigh sheer design prowess is a call to action for designers eager to make their mark in the competitive creative industry.

In an era where design continues to impact all facets of business, "Burn Your Portfolio" offers indispensable guidance for navigating career hurdles while unveiling opportunities to grow professional relationships and financial acumen. This book is an essential read for any designer seeking a more nuanced understanding of how to leverage both skill and humanity within their craft.

Review of Burn Your Portfolio

"Burn Your Portfolio" is a masterpiece by Michael Janda that uncovers the layers of knowledge left untapped by formal design education. A standout feature of this book is its emphasis on interpersonal dynamics and the power of cultivating strong client relationships. Janda's manuscript expertly dispels the myth that artistic skill alone dictates success, instead offering insights into crucial business tactics that transform creative potential into measurable achievements.

One of the book's key strengths lies in its focus on the cultivation of practical skills, such as client management and effective communication. The thoughtfully curated advice on handling demanding projects with professionalism reveals the nuanced balance of creativity and commerce required in today's design roles. Janda's writing is refreshingly accessible, engaging both seasoned professionals and recent graduates with anecdotes that echo the common hurdles faced within the industry.

Enriched with actionable takeaways, including pricing strategies and stress management techniques, "Burn Your Portfolio" is an invaluable resource for readers keen on extending their expertise beyond the beautiful confines of their laptops. This book is highly recommended for anyone wanting to navigate the real-world challenges designers face, providing not just solutions, but inspiring them to redefine what success looks like within the creative sphere.

Who should read Burn Your Portfolio?

  • Freelance Designers: Gain a comprehensive guide to managing your business effectively, navigating client relationships, and pricing your work strategically.
  • Design Graduates: Emerging creatives will find a wealth of information bridging academic training with industry expectations.
  • Creative Directors: Hone leadership skills and leverage practical advice to manage teams and projects while maintaining high client satisfaction.
  • Design Educators: This resource can help structure curriculum to cover essential skills not typically included in a design course.
  • Business-Minded Creatives: Those looking to blend business acumen with artistic ability to cultivate enduring success in their design careers.

About the author

Michael Janda is an award-winning creative director, designer, and agency veteran with over 25 years of experience in the graphic design industry. He graduated with a degree in studio art and a focus in graphic design from Indiana University in 1996. Janda founded the creative agency Riser in 2002, which provided design and development services for high-profile brands such as Disney, Google, Warner Bros., and National Geographic, completing over 1,600 projects and employing over 70 people before being sold in 2015. He is the author of "Burn Your Portfolio: Stuff They Don’t Teach You in Design School, but Should," a book that shares practical advice and insights for designers to succeed in their careers.

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