Okay, so you’re an artist. A good one for that matter. But it takes more than talent to craft a career you will be able to look back at and be proud of. To secure and maintain a good job within the creative industries you will need to come to terms with the following:

Work quantity matters more than work quality

The commercial world values your artistic creations for what it can do for them, not what it actually is. So what should matter to you more is how to best meet the requirements of the commercial world in a timely manner. How fast can you create a piece of work that satisfies their needs? The better you can do this, the more work is likely to be thrown your way, and for higher pay too.

It’s imperative you develop a good work ethic

Despite the fact that many artistic projects are unique in their process of creation, assurance and surety is what matters most when it comes to creating for other people with their own targets and deadlines. That means that you need to create a structure and pace for your creative process that suits the industry you are working in. This will make you dependable to your employers and give you a sense of control and ease as you go into every new project.

Your goals need to be realistic and attainable

Wherever you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years should not be defying of industry odds. Don’t set your goals on one day owning the company based just on your creative abilities, you will be gravely disappointed. That is not to say you should not aim for excellence, however who you are as a person and what your goals are, need to be aligned.

Regularly grow and build up your portfolio

The creative industry, much like many other industries, is full of individuals looking to climb the ladder. Competition is high, and if you are not making an effort to regularly sharpen your skills and get better at your craft, not only will you stagnate, but you will also soon find yourself out of a job.

Collaborate and network

There will come a day when you want to switch jobs, launch your own product or even start your own company or agency. Those cubicles won’t fill themselves and the process of scouting and headhunting prospective partners and employees can be made much easier if you make it a habit to regularly reach out to other creatives within your industry and build strong, mutually beneficial relationships with them. Connect on a piece you have been working on and get their thoughts, ask them about a new technique you have been considering or even just say hi. Any conversation is a great step in building those connections.

Keep these 5 things in mind and your success in the commercial world will be a destined. It won’t necessarily be easy, but you’ll guarantee yourself some wins.