Tips from Amy Simmons

Stock curtsey of Envato

Week 7 Falmouth Presentation with Amy Simmons, a London-based integrative producer often commissions people by looking at their personal work- not their commercial.

This rings true as I have been approached for commercial commissions thanks to the viewing of my personal work. 

One thing I took away from Amy's vast array of experience is how much collaboration can be involved.  Art directors, clients, curators, producers, etc.  Knowing your role and your end of the business is key in everything coming together smoothly.

Helpful acronyms or business vocabulary:

OOH- Out of Home- 6 sheets, 48 sheets (billboard), printed for out doors
DOOH- Digital Out of Home- Escalated panels, screen posters- sometimes animated
DM- Direct Marketing- flyers through your door, etc.  
Internal Com- using in their own agency
Press- Newspaper or magazine ads
POS- Point of Sale
Online media- on a website, sometimes includes social.


Facebook- landscape
Instagram-square
SnapChat- portrait

Make sure you know when you can show the work on your own portfolio- what is the 'live' date?


TIPS to be remembered:
Get the list of agencies and make sure you have the correct contact!  You can call the reception desk to ask if your not sure.

Send emails with embedded images.  So they can see it at a glance.

Send printed content- post cards etc.

Arrange a portfolio viewing- they will remember you more if they meet you in person.

NETWORK! NETWORK! NETWORK!

Go to private views, attend events, meet, chat, send a website link the next day.  Take part in agency charity exhibitions, or charity art shows.  Get involved.

Then return phone calls and emails promptly.  You may loose out on opportunities.

Portfolio tips:
Make sure it is printed high quality and is professional looking.
Clean of fingerprints etc.  Plastic sleeves are ok.
Keep it well edited and keep the week projects out.  Smaller and Stronger is better than more.  Get assistance if needed.
Don't take an ipad- unless you have good reason.  Screens are less effective and less desirable.  Possibly ok for animations where screens are needed.
Let THEM look through at their own rate, hand it to them and let them ask questions etc. But feel free to explain and give context to your work. Share your stories.

Always have a business card or postcard to leave behind.
No an agency's clients and ask questions.
BE YOURSELF!