So, if I may provide some advice on a rewrite of this topic. Clearly all parties here are looking to provide some form of help, be it a reality check, encouragement, etc. A common response from many here is the “such as in any other industry.” And this is true. Ask many trying to make a career in liberal arts, teaching, even research jobs, open positions are drying up. There’s too much competition, and it’s too easy for a desperate worker to throw their hat into a bad organization because there are few options. I mean, even just googling “reality of <insert profession> jobs” and it’s all the same rants. Low pay, low respect, etc. There’s even blog posts about traditional big money making jobs like lawyers and doctors going belly up. So, biggest takeaway here is “such is life.”
Next we have the issue of the reception of forum posting and internet debate. Most of us do not receive anything other than being directly related to us. In fact, it is difficult to even get design advice without somebody framing your question in an skewed way, because they don’t have your vision. We all do it, I do it, just as I first read this I framed it directed at me when in reality it most likely wasn’t. See, I’m old enough to say that the OP description applies to retail, IT, manufacturing floor, CAD, architecture, and yes even construction. Cause, I’ve done those things. But, maybe to some young pups out there with overly lofty dreams this might be useful…no, wait…no it’s not. Because no matter what life lessons one provides, nobody listens until they’ve experienced it themselves. Again such is life. So basically, back to the point, since we only perceive other’s text as directly relating to our life experiences, coming off as negative only pushes away the intended audience, gives flame to opponents, and head nodding from those in agreement who do not require said advice. Oh, and since it is an internet forum, you have many who completely agree with you, but think you have the wrong angle, so they need to prove you right in a different way…ugh. Forums are both a cancer and miracle of communication.
So, there’s my rant/advice/time filler before I clock out for the day. Probably best to come back in a much less passionate format. Just basic facts and particular pitfalls to look out for. Maybe even a few others adding their own stories. Hell, I don’t even why I bother responding except that this is ripe for pages upon pages of flaming and debate, which seems like a waste. But, on second thought, this can be a very useful topic. One that can provide a lot of insight into the industry…so, I’d rather see it get better received.
I usually get around 30-40 agency submissions whenever I am hiring artists, and of those I interview the ones with the best portfolio which demonstrates a suitable aptitude for the current game. Usually I shortlist to around three or four and go from there.