Self Promotion Research/Advice

For inspiration and guidance I have been researching 'the art of self promotion' as well as looking at other illustrators/designers promotional designs. These form the likes of business cards, books, zines, posters and packages which are sent to possible employers and commissioners, and need to be sent on a regular basis.

I have found a selection of really useful websites which give advice about self promotion success, techniques, themes, publications, websites, portfolios, publishing, etc.

• http://www.phylliscahill.com/articles/selfpromo.html
  
• http://www.artbusiness.com/catalogue.html
• http://escapefromillustrationisland.com/2010/01/19/10-rules-of-effective-self-promotion/
• http://www.allgraphicdesign.com/graphicsblog/2007/11/120-self-promotion-ideas-for-graphic-designers-freelancers-free-or-almost-free/
• http://www.artquest.org.uk/building-a-career/self-promotion-guide.htm
• http://www.heathermorton.ca/blog/?p=328
• http://www.creativelatitude.com/articles/article_0704_potts.html
• http://allfreelancework.com/articleportfolio1.php
• http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Master-the-Art-of-Self-Promotion&id=556892
  

Self Promotion by Paperheart - Jessica Williams
I find the work of Jessica Williams very inspirational, her quirky, original style combines hand-rendered illustration with photography and typography. Her self promotion pieces show a strong unique style and by being placed in simple book and poster layouts, the images really do all the talking. These pieces aren't over worked, yet give all the information needed. I especially like these business cards, which use old, cut up photos, they stand out by being original pieces of art in themselves and all are slight;y different as they are hand made.

Packaging
A very important design feature to consider is the way in which my promotional goods will be packaged, as I will be sending them out to possible employers along with every other recent graduate and professional. I need to really stand out as first impressions are very important.
here are a few simple, yet professional looking packaging ideas which make the packages stand out from others, whether it's through the actual package used, seal, or decorations - every little design feature counts and carries a message.