Last updated on May 7, 2023
Photo by Jen Theodore on Unsplash
Are you a creative with a dream of turning your passion into a full-time job? Pursuing a creative career in India can seem daunting, but with the right strategy, the hurdles can be easily overcome. Moreover, you will be rewarded with a great work-life balance, financial security and a portfolio of projects that you can be proud of. Here is an AI backed guide to help you take your first steps towards achieving your dream full-time creative role in India.
Creative professionals are in high demand in India. A large number of companies are now shifting their focus from a traditional 9-to-5 job to creative careers which can bring in higher returns in the long run. Technology is playing a major role in the growth and expansion of creative professions. Some of the most popular creative professions in India are Art Directors, Graphic Designers, Web Designers, Copywriters, Video and Digital Photographers, Videographers, Animators and more.
The trend of taking up creative full-time roles is growing in India, as many startups are looking for multifaceted professionals who can transform their ideas into reality. This gives creative professionals the freedom to explore their skills and hone their craft, while still benefiting from the stability of a long-term and full-time job.
Transitioning into a full-time creative job in India is not an easy feat. Most people are intimidated by the thought of taking a plunge into the unknown. However, with a clear goal and dedication, it can be done.
Firstly, it is important to understand the industry in which you want to be in. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for the creative industry and you need to master the nitty-gritty of the field to be successful. Research the trends in the industry, follow successful professionals in the sector and analyze the problems that creative professionals are solving. This will help you get a clearer vision of what you would like to do.
Next, start building your portfolio of creative work. Get involved in creative projects, both online and offline, to gain experience and showcase your creativity. You can also build up an impeccable portfolio of projects you have completed to show potential employers.
Having a good network is another key factor to make the transition smoother. Get in touch with professionals in the industry, join online communities and connect with people who have successfully made a shift into a full-time creative role. These can be your future employers or colleagues. Networking with like-minded people will open more doors and give you the impetus to finally make the shift.
Lastly, analyze the salary expectations for creative professionals in India. The salary range for creative professionals in India can vary greatly depending on the roles, experience and industry. The average salary for Art Directors in India is Rs. 5 lakhs per annum, while the average salary for Graphic Designers is Rs. 3.7 lakhs per annum. You can also consider applying for freelance roles if you don’t want to commit to a full-time job initially.
Real-life stories of successful transitions into full-time creative roles in India should act as your motivation. There is no magic formula for success, but these stories of dedication and hard work can empower you during your change.
Saikat Bhattacharya is one such person who made the shift from a career in software engineering to a full-time career in creative direction. Through his personal network and experience, he was able to move into his dream role in a video production company. He successfully negotiated his salary package and currently he is thriving in his career, which is at the intersection of creativity and technology.
Similarly, The Team Lakay is a creative agency from Delhi who have successfully shifted to a full-time creative job. The team consists of five people who specialize in graphic design, photography, videography, copywriting and animation. They have successfully fulfilled projects for international and national companies and have become an inspiration for many people wanting to make the same transition in India.
The creative industry is no cakewalk. You will face many challenges and obstacles along the way, but it’s important to be prepared for it and have the right strategy in place. Here are some tips to help you overcome the common challenges of transitioning into a full-time creative job.
Firstly, don’t let your fear and insecurity get the best of you. Scout for new opportunities, take on small projects and build your portfolio. Don’t be afraid to take risks; it will lead you to a deep understanding of the industry which is essential for success.
Secondly, be patient. Transitioning to a new career path won’t happen overnight. Be consistent and be the hard worker in the team. Try to stand out from the crowd and build up your credibility. Keep learning and challenging yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help or support.
Thirdly, don’t be afraid to fail. You will make mistakes, but take it as a learning experience. Analyze why something didn’t go as planned and incorporate it into your strategy. This will make you a better problem-solver and will ultimately lead to success.
Creative professionals are in high-demand and job satisfaction is quite high when you pursue a creative role. A transition from a regular 9-to-5 job to a creative full-time role involves many steps, but with the right preparation, it can be done. Here are some actionable steps that can make your shift to the creative field easier and smoother.
Making a transition into a full-time creative job in India is not an impossible feat. If you have the passion, dedication, and support system, you can make the shift smoothly. Research the industry, build a portfolio of projects, hone your skill set and create a strong network. The creative industry comes with many rewards and job satisfaction, so take a chance and make the shift into your dream job.