Sh*t They Didn’t Tell You: How to Succeed in the Creative Industries

Designer and poet Woods (Our Veteran Daze) delivers straightforward career advice with splashes of humor in this guide to succeeding in creative fields. Woods, CEO of design consultancy Edenspiekermann, dispenses counsel directed primarily toward those in the design and visual arts fields on battling “post-graduation panic,” landing a first job, and creating a portfolio “that doesn’t suck.” Turning to everyday concerns, Woods addresses how to receive criticism (think of it as “free advice”), work with difficult clients, and launch a side hustle—something Woods says is essential to “keep your creative skills fresh and ensure that you remain relevant.” He also lauds the importance of “serious play,” or working on passion projects that spark creativity without fear of failure. For confronting the “infamous curse of industry” burnout, Woods provides a checklist to assess if one is spending too much time on work that stifles creative energy. Throughout, lighthearted illustrations, flowcharts, and graphics strike a wonderful balance with the wealth of “harsh truths” Woods lays out. This is a must-read for anyone looking to enter creative industries. (Aug.)