Nicole Rogers
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I am a graphic designer + art director.”
I love developing brand aesthetics, and marketing campaign designs that maintain recognition and consistency across various different channels.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
As a journalism major who graduated right as the print industry was taking a nosedive, I decided it was best to move to New York sans job & try to work for a magazine. Lo and behold, there were no entry-level magazine jobs available (duh), and I ended up working as an assistant account executive at an advertising agency. It was the hardest, most rewarding experience of my life, and, after another odd job or two, I realized I absolutely needed to work on the creative side of things. I enrolled in Shillington School where I got a certificate in graphic design. It was the best decision I could have made, and completely propelled me into my career as a designer.
HOW DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR FIELD?
My diverse background as a journalism major/account executive/project manager gives me a unique perspective, and ability to communicate and compromise. Whether you're working with a lot of cross-team members at a large company, or vocal clients who have a lot of opinions, I believe the creative process (and life in general) is about give and take. It's a delicate balance, but as a designer, it's important for me to make sure I'm constantly learning from people and taking their viewpoints into consideration while providing my expertise and expanding my craft.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I am currently working as a senior digital designer at West Elm -- helping to push their brand guidelines and modernize their overall aesthetic. And, like most designers, I am very interested in breaking out on my own one day, so I'm currently taking baby steps to do that.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I take a thoughtful, organized approach from ideation to design execution, and I want that to stand out. I love designs that are smart and serve a purpose, whether that means creating awareness about a social issue, or advertising the latest and greatest subscription service in a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing way.
WE ALL HAVE MULTIPLE SKILLS OR WORK IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD FOCUS ON MORE?
Harmonica + stick and poke tattoos.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Feeling overwhelmed by how many beautiful brands and how much content there is in the world. With so many smart and talented designers, agencies, influencers, etc., it's easy for me to start comparing myself and feel discouraged or inadequate.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
I would hire a personal trainer/nutritionist. Feeling healthy is key for me, and if someone could just tell me what the heck I should eat to not feel bloated and what exercises to do that do NOT involve running, it would definitely eliminate some of the unbalanced feeling that distracts me in the day-to-day.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Take. A. Beat. After graduating from college I felt a lot of pressure to snap my fingers and immediately have a full-blown career. I wish I could go back and tell myself to breathe -- that you don't have to have everything 100% figured out at all times and it is ok to recognize you're still learning. I would also tell myself to be more self-aware. Try to realize how your words and actions are making people feel (and therefore react) because it will actually make your life easier.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
This answer changes periodically based on what I'm professionally going through, but right now I would definitely want more insight on starting my own business -- how to network, maintain confidence and avoid that imposter syndrome feeling.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I am super interested in helping brands develop their look and feel + brand guidelines. From logo creation to the nitty-gritty details that guide down-the-road design decisions, I am open to opportunities and possibilities.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
A person/brand/business with a clear vision who values my expertise but is also excited to share ideas and collaborate.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
This all depends on the timing and full scope of the project! I charge an $80 hourly rate, and flat fees/retainers vary based on client needs.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
A well-worded email with any sort of visuals that represent your vision is always best! But nothing beats a face-to-face chat over coffee or lunch.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Remove ego and let play happen.
This member profile was originally published in April 2019.