The Creative Ladder

The industry Agency

Kerri O’Connor, Co-Director, Saunders Lynn & Co. 

Kerri O’Connor joined forces with Mesan Speechly to form Saunders Lynn & Co in 2005, offering a focused range of recruitment services in the construction and architectural market.

O’Connor says there are more design graduates than there are jobs and the key is to do something to stand out from the crowd. “You want to show employers that you’ve done something extra – exhibitions, winning prizes, awards, distinctions – these things all add value and show that you put in the extra effort. Unpaid work experience is really crucial too, there’s no point in spending your free time during your degree working at Pizza Hut – it won’t get you that all-important first job in design”.

Also vital is having the confidence, not to knock on doors, but to knock them down. Your first job – and exposure to the industry – is crucial. “Apply for every graduate opportunity there is, then you’ve got somewhere to go from there, some experience. Take anything you can get.” If you can’t get what you want, get something similar and then side step later on.

As your career progresses through the industry, don’t forget to keep a record of all your projects and positions. O’Connor says, “keep a log, including information on the size and scope of the projects as well as details of what your role was – including what tasks you actually completed yourself and what you did in consultation with other senior members of the team”. This way, potential employers and recruiters can be given a clear sense of your experience, and you won’t forget either.