Most creatives struggle to land high-paying jobs or work with their favorite brands. Not because they aren’t talented—because they aren’t prepared when opportunity knocks.

I’ve landed four dream opportunities in my career, and every single one came from using the same system.

If you follow these steps, you’ll position yourself for your next big break.

Oh, and stick around till the end—I’ll share one tip that makes you irreplaceable once you land the gig.

Let’s dive in.

1. Work On Your Craft

Most creatives plateau because they stop improving. They get comfortable.

But the best in the game? They treat their skills like an athlete treats their sport.

• Study your craft daily.

• Build projects outside of client work.

• Experiment, push boundaries, and improve your workflow.

I still do this after 12 years in the creative industry. It’s the reason I keep winning.

🎯 Takeaway: If you aren’t getting better, you’re getting left behind.

👉 But sharpening your skills alone isn’t enough. If no one knows who you are, you’ll still struggle.

2. Build a Personal Brand

You’re either undeniable or invisible.

Posting once a week on social media keeps you top of mind when someone needs your skill set.

Proof?
One of my LinkedIn posts led to a $3,600 client referral from someone in the UK—just because I showed up online.

If someone ever asks, “Do you still do XYZ?” it means you aren’t showing up enough.

🎯 Takeaway: If people don’t see you, they won’t think of you.

👉 But visibility means nothing if you can’t back it up.

3. Have a Portfolio That Sells

It’s shocking how many creatives don’t have a simple way to showcase their work.

Your portfolio builds trust in seconds. No portfolio? No deal.

Don’t overthink it—use:
✅ A personal website
✅ A Behance profile (it’s free)
✅ Even an Instagram page works in a pinch

Early in my career, I built my first-ever printed portfolio while working at Walmart. That portfolio got me interviews with multiple sports teams.

🎯 Takeaway: When opportunity comes, be ready.

👉 But there’s one more factor that separates good creatives from the ones who get every opportunity…

4. Network Like Your Career Depends On It (Because It Does)

You never know who knows who. Relationships open doors skills alone never will.

When I worked in sports marketing, I built a relationship with Jason from SkullSparks—a headhunter for creatives.

That one connection led to interviews at Auburn, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and even a Creative Director job at Kennesaw State.

🎯 Takeaway: The right people make success effortless.

👉 And once you land the job? There’s one thing that makes you irreplaceable.

Bonus: Learn the Game (Not Just Your Job)

Most creatives show up, do their work, and leave.

Big mistake.

If you want long-term success, understand the business behind your role:
✔️ What moves the needle for your client/company?
✔️ How does your work impact revenue?
✔️ What problems can you solve that no one else does?

Become an undeniable asset, and you’ll never struggle to find work again.

Want More Tips Like This?

I share exclusive creative career strategies in my newsletter, Creator Edge.

If you want to land better jobs, build a profitable brand, and create a career on your terms—join here HERE.

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