Category: Creative Careers

Choosing the Right Business Structure

If you’re setting up your own business or getting started as a freelancer, your organisation’s legal structure will be one of the first decisions you have to make. Below, we summarise the most common UK structures and highlight practical implications for funding applications.

This information is not intended to act as financial or legal advice, please do your own research and consult with professionals if you have any questions.

1. Sole Trader

A sole trader is the simplest structure: you and the business are legally the same.

Best for: Freelancers, creatives, sole self-employed individuals.
Funding eligibility:

Pros: Easy setup, minimal admin.
Cons: Limited funding options, personal liability.

2. Limited Company (Ltd)

A limited company is a separate legal entity registered with Companies House.

Best for: Growing small businesses, start-ups, agencies, product or service companies.

Funding eligibility:

Pros: Credibility, limited liability, scalable.
Cons: More reporting and compliance.

3. Partnership / Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

A partnership involves two or more individuals running a business together; LLPs offer more legal protection.

Best for: Joint ventures, creative partnerships, small professional groups.

Funding eligibility:

Pros: Shared responsibility, flexible.
Cons: Limited funding options; liability depends on structure.

4. Community Interest Company (CIC)

A CIC is a social enterprise structure designed for organisations that trade commercially while delivering community impact.

Best for: Social impact ventures, creative community projects, wellbeing and youth organisations.

Funding eligibility:

Pros: Recognised purpose, ability to trade, transparent governance.
Cons: Asset lock limits profit distribution.

5. Registered Charity

Charities exist exclusively for charitable purposes and follow strict governance rules.

Best for: Organisations focused on public benefit, education, arts, community services, or social wellbeing.

Funding eligibility:

Pros: Strong funding opportunities, high public trust, tax benefits.
Cons: Complex governance, strict regulations, limited trading activity.

6. Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO)

A CIO is a modern charitable structure with incorporated status.

Best for: New charities and community organisations that want limited liability without running both a charity and a company.

Funding eligibility:

Pros: Simple governance, strong funding access, flexible charity structure.
Cons: Registration can be slower; must meet charity rules.

7. Unincorporated Association

A simple, informal nonprofit structure with no separate legal personality.

Best for: Grassroots groups, early-stage community initiatives, volunteer-led groups.

Funding eligibility:

Pros: Easy to form, no cost.
Cons: Limited funding, personal liability for committee members.

Which Structure Is Best for Funding?

Best for Grant Funding

Best for Investment & For-profit Trading

Best for Freelancers & Early Stages

Conclusion

Your organisation’s legal structure directly influences the type of funding you can apply for and how funders perceive your stability and credibility. Whether you’re starting a creative business, launching a community initiative, or setting up a social enterprise, choosing the right structure early on can save time and open more opportunities later.

If you’re planning to seek grants, a CIO, charity, or CIC can give you the strongest foundation. If you’re aiming for commercial growth or investment, a limited company is often the best fit.

For more information, book a chat with us!

How to Write a Cover Letter: Telling Your Story with Purpose

Applying for roles in the creative industries; whether in film, design, publishing, theatre, advertising, gaming, or the arts, often means competing with people who are just as talented and enthusiastic as you. A great portfolio or CV is essential, but there’s one document that can shift the balance in your favour: a well-crafted cover letter.

In any sector, but especially the creative-industries, a cover letter isn’t just a formality; it’s your first opportunity to demonstrate your voice, your values, and your creative thinking. It’s also where you connect the dots between your experience, the role, and the organisation’s mission. Here’s how to write one that stands out for the right reasons.

Start with the Job Pack

In creative work, responding to a brief is half the job. In this case, the job pack (or job description) is your brief.
Before you write anything, break down the job pack into three key areas:

  1. What the role requires (skills, knowledge, responsibilities)
  2. The organisation’s history, impact, and values (their tone, mission, creative style)
  3. What the organisation is trying to achieve (projects, audiences, challenges)

Make a shortlist of the skills and experiences you have that correspond with each area. This becomes the spine of your cover letter. Being explicit about how you meet the brief shows that you understand the assignment and can translate it into clear, purposeful writing; an essential skill in almost every creative job.

Complete a Creative Skills Audit to help with this step for future cover letters.

Tailor Your Skills and Experience, don’t Just List Them

Rather than just listing your skills, a cover letter is your chance to elaborate. Shout about your achievements, and provide evidence of how you’ve used each skill or context about how you’ve developed it. Be as specific as possible; this all helps to build the recruiter’s trust in your ability to do the job.

Instead of:

“I have strong communication skills.”

Try something like:

“In my role as a production assistant, I coordinated weekly cross-department meetings, translating technical updates into exactly what staff and crew members needed to know each day; an approach that strengthened collaboration and helped the project stay on schedule.”

This turns a generic skill into a concrete example, giving your reader a story rather than a statement. It also subtly demonstrates problem-solving, teamwork, and clarity; all highly desirable in creative settings.

Show Your Transferable Skills (They Matter More Than You Think)

Creative industries often attract candidates from diverse backgrounds. Even if you’re pivoting from a different sector—or you’re early in your career—your transferable skills are far more relevant than you might realise.

Think about the core competencies creative teams rely on:

You can have gained these from hospitality, retail, volunteering, education, admin work, side projects, or hobbies. What matters is how you connect those experiences to the job pack.

For example:

“Working in a Front Of House role at The Little Theatre taught me how to stay calm under pressure and problem-solve in real time, working to balance customer safety and ensuring that the show could commence on time. These are skills I’d bring to the fast-moving environment of a live production team for Beacon Festival.”

Transferability isn’t about stretching the truth; it’s about recognising the value of what you’ve already done.

Explain Why You Want This Job (Not Just Any Creative Job)

One of the biggest missed opportunities in cover letters is vague enthusiasm:

“I’ve always wanted to work in the creative industries.”

Instead, be specific. Think of this section as a pitch that answers:

Maybe you admire their storytelling approach, their audience focus, their bold design language, or their commitment to a particular mission. Maybe the role gives you the chance to build skills you’ve been developing independently. Show them this opportunity isn’t random; it’s intentional.

A practical note:

If any logistical details aren’t readily apparent from your CV, be sure to list them in the cover letter (and in the initial application form/email). E.g. if your CV shows only Manchester experience but you’re looking to relocate to Leeds, make sure you specify this. Otherwise, a recruiter might think you just haven’t read the job pack properly.

Articulate What You Hope to Learn

Creative industries value growth. They know that curiosity drives great work.

When you express what you hope to learn, you’re showing:

For example:

“I’m eager to deepen my experience in editorial writing, especially in shaping content for young audiences; an area your team excels in and one I’m excited to learn from.”

This positions you as someone who will both contribute and evolve, which is compelling for employers.

Talk About Your ‘Why’: The Creative Spark Behind the CV

Here’s where many cover letters fall flat: they tell an employer what someone has done, but not why they create in the first place.

Your “why” is your creative identity. It’s the emotional centre of your letter.

Ask yourself:

Then weave it into a short, authentic insight. For example:

“Storytelling has always been how I make sense of the world; whether through short films, community projects, or the way I visually document everyday moments. I’m drawn to work that helps people feel seen, understood, or inspired.”

This isn’t a bio; it’s a glimpse into who you are as a creative person. Employers aren’t just hiring skills; they’re hiring people who have emotions and interests.

Offer Enough Personal Insight—But Keep It Relevant

Creative industry cover letters allow more personality than corporate ones, but balance is crucial.

A few tips:

A good cover letter feels like a conversation where the reader gets a sense of both your competence and your character.

In Summary:

Your Cover Letter is a Story About You + the Role. A strong creative-industry cover letter answers three big questions:

  1. Can you do the job? — skills, examples, transferable experience
  2. Do you understand this job? — tailored responses to the job pack
  3. Who are you as a creative person? — your values, your “why,” your ambitions

When these come together, the result is a cover letter that is personalised and showcases the best of you.

A Beginner’s Guide to Funding Applications

If you’re an early-career creative, getting your first bit of funding can feel impossible. You’ve got the ideas, the passion, and potentially some experience behind you from school, university, or other training. But now you’re ready to take the next step and need some financial support to do it.

This guide is here to help you understand where to look for small grants, how to write about your work confidently, and how to make your first funding application feel achievable rather than overwhelming.

What Is Creative Funding and Who Is It For?

Funding is money given to help creative people make or develop their work. It’s not a loan — you don’t have to pay it back — but you do need to show how you’ll use it and what it will achieve.

Small grants (usually under £1,000) are designed to help early-career artists get started. They might cover:

You don’t need to have a long CV or previous grant success. Funders want to support potential, creativity, and enthusiasm as much as experience.

Types of Grants

There are more opportunities out there than you might think. Funding within the creative sector is usually split into one of the below categories:

Community Benefit – Creative projects that support the wider development of people and communities primarily, e.g. an art workshop which encourages confidence in participants. These are funds where the outcomes of participants are prioritised over the physical work created, and they are often run at a grassroots level within the local community.

Creation of Works – Focussed on funding the creation of new material and/or outputs; e.g. a new theatre production, piece of music, or wardrobe of clothing. These will usually cover your time, materials, and ‘overheads’ (the cost of keeping the lights on). Some funds may require a specific sharing of the work created (e.g. an exhibition, album release).

Personal Development – These are funds which support the development of creative people, rather than the creation of new art. This could include opportunities to go and see work locally, meet other people working in a similar area, travel internationally to learn from other cultures, or just take time to think.

Entrepreneurship/Business Startup – These are funds designed to support you to setup a business in your chosen field, with a view to that business turning a profit. In some cases, these are limited to social enterprises (businesses which work for the benefit of the community).

Some funds are only open to registered charities, some accept applications from Commmunity Interest Companies, and others will accept applications from indviduals. Make sure you are eligible for funding from an organisation before taking the time to apply.

Where to Find Small Grants in the UK

There are a number of grants and funding sources, but these can sometimes be hard to find. Search the internet for funding in your chosen discipline or local area, and more nationally, and make a note of application deadlines or previous projects organisations have funded. There are a number of grant guides available online, such as from The Kings’ Trust, Culture, Health and Wellbeing Alliance, Creative Lives, and many more places.

You could also look at what projects have run that are similar to yours, and where these obtained their funding (often printed somewhere or listed on a website).

Telling Your Story in an Application

A funding application is simply a way of telling someone why your idea matters and what difference it will make. You don’t need fancy language; just honesty, clarity, and enthusiasm.

Here’s how to approach it:

Try writing your answers as if you’re explaining your project to a friend who doesn’t know much about your work; don’t assume any prior knowledge about the project or who you are. Once you’ve done that, tidy it up and make it sound professional, but don’t lose your personal voice.

Using AI

Be cautious when using AI to write an application. The use of AI in writing can be obvious, and it can limit your application’s ability to stand out against the competition. AI can help with condensing ideas or proofreading, but don’t use it to write the actual application. Make sure it stays authentic and unique to you, rather than generic-sounding. And make sure that everything that you submit is accurate; AI can sometimes get it wrong or hallucinate data and information.

Using Evidence and Data (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

You don’t need lots of statistics for small grants, but it helps to show that you’ve thought things through to include some.

You should include:

A clear, realistic budget is one of the most important parts. Funders want to see that you’ve planned carefully and that your project is achievable.

Tips for Your First Application

Here are some practical tips that can make a big difference:

Building Confidence for the Future

Your first funding application might take time, but it gets easier with practice. Keep notes of what you’ve applied for, the feedback you get, and what you’d change next time.

Small grants can be a stepping stone towards bigger opportunities. They show funders that you can manage money, deliver a project, and reflect on what you’ve learned. Over time, this builds trust and opens more doors.

Remember: funders aren’t looking for perfection. They’re looking for creative people with good ideas who want to make something meaningful happen. That could be you.

Final Thoughts

Applying for funding for the first time can feel daunting, but it’s also exciting. It’s a chance to get your ideas out of your head and into the world.

Start small, be honest about what you need, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way. Every successful project (even the big ones) started somewhere.

You’ve already done the hardest part by creating something worth sharing. Now it’s about giving yourself the chance to make it happen.

How to Connect With the People Who Have Your Dream Job

Networking has always been one of the most powerful tools for career growth, but today it doesn’t require conferences or in-person meetups. Thanks to LinkedIn, you can connect with people all over the world, learn directly from their experiences, and start building relationships that could shape your future. These tips could also be applied to DMing somebody on social media, emailing them, or networking face to face though.

If you’re dreaming of breaking into a new field or taking the next step in your current one, virtual networking can help open doors. Here’s how to do it in a way that feels real and approachable.

1. Start With Your Goals

Before you reach out to anyone, get clear on what you’re hoping to learn. Ask yourself:

Knowing this will help guide your conversations.

2. Write Down Your Questions

Make a list of 20 questions you’d love to ask someone in your dream job. These could be things like:

Then, instead of sending all 20 to one person, pick one question and send it to one or two people at a time. This makes it easier for them to reply and helps you start more conversations.

3. Polish Your LinkedIn Profile

Your profile is your digital first impression. Add a clear photo, write a headline that reflects where you want to go, and update your “About” section with a few sentences about your interests and goals. Even if you don’t have direct experience yet, highlight projects, classes, or skills that show your interest in the field.

Think about this: if someone looks at your profile after you connect, will they understand what excites you and where you want to go?

4. Introduce Yourself the Right Way

When you reach out, be clear and keep it short. Say who you are, why you’re reaching out, and what you’re hoping to learn. LinkedIn only gives you 300 characters in a connection request, so you don’t have space for your life story.

Example LinkedIn Messages

Connection Request:
“Hi [Name], I’m exploring a career in [field] and admire your path. I’d love to connect and ask you a quick question about how you got started.”

Follow-Up Message (after they accept):
“Thanks for connecting, [Name]. I’m curious about your journey into [role/field]. Would you be open to answering a quick question: What helped you most when you first started in this field?”

5. Decide What to Ask For

Once you’ve connected, you have two good options. You can ask a quick question in writing, or you can ask for a short Zoom call or coffee chat.

If you’re just starting out, it’s usually best to start small. Send a single question first. If the person responds and seems open, you can follow up later with something like:

“Thanks so much for your reply, it was really helpful. If you have 15 minutes sometime, I’d love to jump on Zoom or grab a coffee (if you’re local) to hear more about your career journey. Totally understand if your schedule is too busy.”

6. Focus on Building Relationships

Networking isn’t about collecting contacts. It’s about building real relationships. After an initial chat, you can keep in touch by thanking them for their time, sharing an article they might find interesting, or commenting thoughtfully on their LinkedIn posts.

Stay-in-Touch Example:
“Hi [Name], I really appreciated your advice about [topic]. I came across this article on [related subject] and thought you might enjoy it. Thanks again for your time, it’s been super helpful.”

Small gestures like this keep the relationship warm without feeling forced, and can lead to future opportunities, advice, or even job recommendations/suggestions.

7. Remember to Give Back

Even if you’re new to your career, you still have something to offer. Maybe it’s sharing your perspective as someone just starting out, recommending tools or resources you’ve found, or even introducing someone from your own network. The best networking is a two-way street.

8. Be Consistent and Patient

A strong network takes time. Try setting a goal to reach out to two or three people a week and engage on LinkedIn regularly. Relationships build slowly, so don’t get discouraged if not everyone replies right away.

Final Thoughts

Virtual networking can feel awkward at first, but it gets easier with practice. Most professionals remember what it was like to be in your shoes and will be glad to share their story. Approach it with curiosity and authenticity, and over time you’ll build a network that helps you grow into your dream career.

Find more LinkedIn and Virtual Networking tips here: Virtual Networking: A Beginner’s Guide (Creative Access)

How to Network at Events (Even When They’re Not “Networking” Events)

Your guide to making meaningful creative connections without the awkwardness

Whether you’re a student just stepping into the creative industries, an early-career artist, designer, writer, performer or filmmaker, or an experienced creative, you’ve probably heard that networking is important. But it can feel intimidating, awkward, and a bit forced, especially if you’re not at an event specifically labelled as a networking event.

The good news is that networking doesn’t have to mean handing out business cards or making awkward small talk. In fact, some of the best networking happens in casual, low-pressure moments after a talk, in a workshop, during a Q&A or even in the queue for coffee. These are opportunities to meet people, learn from them, and start building relationships that can support your creative journey.

This guide will help you confidently introduce yourself, start conversations, ask meaningful questions, get contact details and make connections that actually last.

Start With a Simple, Friendly Introduction

You don’t need a rehearsed pitch to network well. What matters more is being clear, approachable and honest when you introduce yourself. Keep it short and open-ended to invite the other person into the conversation.

For example, you could say:
“Hi, I’m Jack. I’m a photography student really into visual storytelling and documentary work. What about you?”
or
“Hey, I’m Sophie. I’m just starting out as a graphic designer. Are you working on anything exciting right now?”

You’re not there to sell yourself. Just be yourself, and be curious about the other person.

Not sure how to introduce yourself? Learn how to craft your elevator pitch

How to Start Conversations (Without Feeling Weird)

If you’re not sure how to approach someone at an event, use the setting as a natural conversation starter. Events give you a built-in reason to talk to people, whether it’s responding to what just happened or commenting on the space itself.

Here are a few reliable ways to get a conversation going:

It can feel easier to start by chatting with someone who is standing alone. Chances are, they’re hoping someone starts a conversation with them too.

How to Get Into a Conversation (Whether One-on-One or in a Group)

One of the trickiest parts of networking is figuring out how to actually begin talking to someone, especially if you’re at a busy event and everyone seems to already know each other. But there are ways to ease into conversations without interrupting or feeling like you’re intruding.

If you want to start a one-on-one chat, such as in the coffee queue or during a break, this is actually one of the easiest and most natural times to connect. You’re already side by side, and there’s a shared experience to comment on. Try saying something like:

Most people will welcome a bit of conversation, and if it flows, great. If not, it’s fine to move on with a polite smile.

If you’re looking to join a group conversation, it’s all about reading the room and approaching with friendliness. First, check the group’s body language. If they’re in a closed circle and seem deep in discussion, it might not be the best time. But if they’re loosely spaced, laughing or looking around the room, that’s usually an open invitation. Stand nearby, smile, and make eye contact with someone in the group. Often, people will instinctively open the space to include you. When there’s a natural pause, you can say something like:
“Mind if I join you?”
or
“Hi, I’m [Name]. I heard something about [topic]; I’m really interested in that too.”
or
“Just jumping in, what are we talking about?”

If one person in the group looks a little quieter or newer, try standing closer to them. They’re often the most likely to help include you.

Make sure your body language is open too; keep your head up, your arms wide, and look up (put your phone away). Closed-off body language makes it look as if you aren’t open to being approached, making it harder to find yourself in conversation.

Who to Approach (Hint: It’s Not Just the Headliners)

It can be tempting to focus only on meeting the big names at an event, such as the keynote speakers, panelists or organisers. But don’t underestimate the value of your peers. The people sitting next to you in the audience could become future collaborators, mentors or friends. In fact, one of the best times to start a conversation is with the person you’re sat next to, and often you can end up spending time with them throughout the day and begin a deep conversation.

That said, if there’s someone you really admire, there’s nothing wrong with introducing yourself briefly and respectfully. A quick comment like:
“Thanks for your talk. I’m just starting out, and your story really resonated with me. I’d love to follow your work. Would it be alright if I connect with you on LinkedIn or Instagram?”
is a professional and memorable way to make contact.

What to Ask (And What to Avoid)

Once the conversation is going, avoid overthinking it. Just be curious and interested. Some good open-ended questions include:

Ask follow-up questions and make notes of specific resources, companies, etc that are recommended to you. Try not to come across as transactional or self-serving. Avoid asking for jobs, introductions or favours on the spot. Focus instead on building a relationship, not extracting something.

How to Keep the Connection Going

After a good conversation, don’t let the connection fade. Before you part ways, ask if they’d be open to staying in touch. That could be through LinkedIn, Instagram, email or another platform.

Once you’re connected, send a short message the next day. Thank them for the conversation, remind them who you are, and, if relevant, share something you talked about. If it feels appropriate, check in a few weeks later with a small update or quick hello.

A thoughtful follow-up stands out more than a business card ever could.

Bonus Tips

Networking if You’re Neurodivergent or Naturally Introverted

If you’re neurodivergent or naturally introverted, networking can bring unique challenges, whether it’s sensory overload, social fatigue, challenges in approaching new people, or simply needing more time to process interactions. It’s important to remind yourself that networking doesn’t have to look one specific way.

Start small and give yourself permission to go at your own pace. You don’t have to speak to everyone or stay for the whole event. If you only talk to one person and that’s all you have capacity for, that is completely valid and valuable. One authentic conversation is often more powerful than several rushed ones.

It’s okay to take breaks, find quiet corners or step outside when you need to recharge. If a venue is loud and overstimulating, don’t be afraid to ask the person you’re talking to to speak louder or move the conversation to a different venue (a foyer space, quiet corner, or outdoor area). You can also follow up online after the event. Even if you didn’t talk to someone in person, a thoughtful message on LinkedIn or Instagram can open the door to connection.

Don’t feel guilty for not doing more. Everyone has different social energy levels and needs. You’re allowed to protect yours. Being thoughtful, observant and intentional in how you connect is just as valuable as being outgoing or visible. Networking isn’t about volume, it’s about finding your people in a way that works for you.

Final Thoughts

The creative industries thrive on connection. Talent matters, but people matter more. The best opportunities often come through conversation, collaboration and community. So don’t wait for the perfect networking event; treat every workshop, panel or forum as a chance to connect.

You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room. Just be open, kind and curious. That’s more than enough.

Looking to find out more? Check out this guide from Creative Lives In Progress with some more ideas, a guide on How To Take The Cringe out of Networking or How to Network Virtually from Creative Access, or explore Leil Lowndes’ book How To Talk To Anyone for more advice on starting conversations and building connection.

Nailing the Interview: A Beginner’s Guide to Creative Sector Job Interviews

Interviews are your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and interests. You’ve made it through the initial application and shortlisting process, so the recruiters are clearly interested in you. Now it’s time for you to advocate for your work and skills, and for them to find out if you’re the right fit for the role (and indeed if the company is the right fit for you). Here’s what you might encounter, and how to tackle it.

How to Talk About Your Skills and Experience

Even if you are just starting out, you have skills and experiences worth sharing. Whether your background comes from school, personal projects, volunteering, or freelance work, the key is to frame your experience confidently.

Tips for Framing Your Experience:

Practice with Mock Interviews

If you’ve never had a job interview before, mock interviews can make a big difference. Practicing with friends, classmates, or family helps you get used to the structure of an interview and build confidence.

How to Run a Mock Interview:

Sample Mock Interview Questions:

Body Language and Confidence

Non-verbal communication plays a huge role in how you are perceived. Even if you feel nervous, strong body language can help you appear more confident.

Body Language Tips:

Speech Clarity and Professional Language

Speaking clearly is just as important as what you say. In creative interviews, you want to sound both professional and authentic.

How to Improve Speech Clarity:

After the Interview

Each interview is a learning opportunity. Whether or not you get the job, take a few minutes afterward to reflect.

Ask yourself:

If you receive a ‘no’ to your application, always send a thank you email and ask for feedback.

Final Thoughts

Interviews are a chance to show your skills, your thinking, and your personality. With preparation, practice, and a little support from friends or mentors, you can turn your inexperience into a strength. Focus on what makes your creative voice unique, and learn from every step of the process. You don’t need to be perfect—just prepared, honest, and eager to grow.

Showcasing Transferable Skills: How to Highlight Them in Your CV and Cover Letter

In today’s dynamic job market, many professionals find themselves navigating multiple industries or shifting roles within the creative sector. Whether you’re moving from graphic design to UX, journalism to content marketing, or theatre to project management, transferable skills are your secret weapon.

But what exactly are transferable skills, and how do you showcase them effectively in your CV and cover letter? Let’s dive in.

What Are Transferable Skills?

Transferable skills are abilities and strengths that you can apply across different roles, industries, and work environments. They are not tied to a specific job title or technical expertise but instead reflect how you work, communicate, solve problems, and interact with others.

Examples of transferable skills in creative careers include:
– Communication (verbal, written, visual)
– Project management
– Team collaboration
– Creative problem-solving
– Research and analysis
– Time management
– Client relationship management

Why Transferable Skills Matter in Creative Careers

Creative industries are constantly evolving. New platforms, tools, and mediums emerge regularly, making adaptability essential. Employers value individuals who can pivot, learn quickly, and bring a broad set of capabilities to the table.

For example, a theatre producer may transition into event management, a journalist may shift into digital content strategy, or a photographer may move into branding and marketing. In each case, the underlying skills (planning, storytelling, audience understanding, and attention to detail) remain highly relevant.

How to Highlight Transferable Skills in Your CV

1. Tailor Your Skills Section

List relevant transferable skills explicitly, using keywords from the job description. For example:
Key Skills:
– Creative storytelling
– Deadline management
– Visual communication
– Stakeholder engagement

2. Show Evidence in Your Experience

Instead of listing job duties, highlight achievements that demonstrate your transferable skills. For instance:
“Led a cross-functional team to deliver a multimedia campaign on a tight deadline, resulting in a 20% increase in engagement.”

3. Use a Professional Summary

At the top of your CV, include a brief summary that ties together your experience and transferable strengths:
“Creative professional with a background in visual design and digital marketing, bringing strong project management, communication, and storytelling skills to drive audience engagement.”

How to Talk About Transferable Skills in Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is the ideal place to connect the dots between your past experience and the role you’re applying for:

1. Start with Your Why

Explain why you’re interested in the role and how your background brings unique value.

2. Tell a Story

Share a brief example of a past project or achievement that highlights relevant transferable skills.

3. Link to the Role

Show how these skills will help you succeed in the position you’re applying for.

Example:

“In my role as a magazine editor, I honed my storytelling, project management, and team leadership skills, all of which I am excited to bring to the content strategist position at your organisation.”

In Conclusion

Transferable skills are the threads that tie your experiences together and make you a versatile candidate in the creative industries. By presenting these skills thoughtfully in your CV and cover letter (and at interview), you can position yourself for exciting new opportunities, no matter where your creative journey takes you.

Ready to find your transferable skills? Complete your Creative Careers Skills Audit here!

Pricing Your Work as a Freelancer in the Creative Industries

In the ever-evolving world of creative freelancing, one of the most challenging aspects for many is pricing their work effectively. Whether you’re a graphic designer, writer, illustrator, photographer, or any other creative professional, setting the right price for your services is crucial not just for your livelihood but also for your confidence, reputation, and career sustainability.

Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the often tricky waters of freelance pricing in the creative industries.

1. Understand Your Costs

Before setting any price, calculate your overheads. These include:
– Software subscriptions (Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva Pro, etc.)
– Hardware (laptops, cameras, tablets)
– Internet and phone bills
– Office space (home office costs or co-working space)
– Insurance
– Professional development (courses, workshops)
This will give you a baseline figure for the minimum income you need to cover your expenses.

2. Define Your Value

Pricing isn’t just about costs; it’s also about the value you bring to the client. Ask yourself:
– How experienced am I?
– What unique skills or perspectives do I offer?
– How will my work benefit the client (increased sales, better engagement, improved brand image)?
Don’t undervalue yourself by focusing solely on how long something takes. Clients pay for results, expertise, and creativity.

3. Research Market Rates

Spend time investigating what others in your field and region are charging. Resources include:
– Industry surveys
– Freelance communities (Reddit, Facebook groups, LinkedIn)
– Professional organizations
This will help you set a price that’s competitive without undercutting or overpricing yourself.

4. Choose the Right Pricing Model

There are several ways to price creative work:
– Hourly Rate: Useful for ongoing projects but may not reflect the value of creative deliverables.
– Per Project Fee: Common for defined projects like logos, articles, or illustrations.
– Retainer Agreements: Ideal for clients who need ongoing work each month.
– Value-Based Pricing: Pricing based on the impact or value your work provides to the client.
Often a mix of these models is most effective.

5. Communicate Clearly

When presenting your pricing to a client:
– Break down the deliverables and timeline.
– Clarify what is and isn’t included.
– Specify payment terms (deposits, milestone payments, final payment).
Professionalism and transparency reduce misunderstandings and build trust.

6. Be Prepared to Negotiate (or Walk Away)

Clients may negotiate—that’s natural. Be open but set boundaries. Know your minimum acceptable rate and don’t be afraid to decline work that undervalues you. Walking away from underpaid work leaves space for better opportunities.

7. Review and Adjust Regularly

Pricing isn’t static. As your skills grow, your portfolio strengthens, and your reputation builds, regularly review and increase your rates to reflect your enhanced value.

Final Thoughts

Pricing your work as a freelancer in the creative industries is both an art and a science. It takes time to find the right balance, but with clear thinking, research, and self-belief, you can create a pricing structure that supports your creative journey and your financial well-being.

Remember: You are not just selling time. You are selling talent, vision, and impact. Price accordingly.

How to Invoice Like a Pro: A Freelancer’s Guide

You’ve nailed the project. The client’s thrilled. Now comes the fun part; getting paid. But if the word “invoice” confuses you, you’re not alone. Invoicing might not be glamorous, but it’s your gateway to financial freedom and earning money for your work. Done right, it keeps your business flowing smoothly. Done wrong (or forgotten altogether) it can delay payments and mess with your income streams. Let’s break it down into something painless and explore some free tools to help you get paid without the headaches.

What is an Invoice?

An invoice is a document that says “Here’s what I did, here’s how much you owe me, and here’s how and when to pay me”. Invoices can be sent either at the end of a project (the most common approach for one-off jobs), or in multiple stages for larger or longer projects (helping with cash flow and protecting you if timelines stretch longer than expected). Typically, in freelance work you won’t get paid without one.

An invoice should include your name or business name (and logo if you have one), your contact info, the client’s name and contact info, an invoice number (for tracking – choose whatever system works for you), the date of issue, a clear description of services (e.g. “Social media campaign – May 2025”), payment terms (e.g. “Due within 14 days”), the total amount due, and bank details or a payment link.

Always keep your invoices clear and professional; they’re legal documents that you may beed to refer to in future. Avoid vague lines like “Creative work – £500”, specify what work you’ve undertaken, how many days it’s taken if relevant, and any other costs agreed. E.g. 2 days Content Creation work @ £225/day = £450, 2 days train travel Birmingham to London @ £25/each = £50.

You can create an invoice with a variety of free online tools that make it effortless:

Crunch is a UK-based online accounting platform designed with freelancers and small businesses in mind. Their free accounting software includes easy invoicing with professional templates, automatic invoice numbering, client contact management, invoice sending, and tracking for who’s paid and who hasn’t.

Invoice Generator.com offers an easy template for one off jobs, but without payment tracking or automatic issuing.

Canva offers invoices that match your brand aesthetic, with free invoice templates you can customize and download.

Pro Tips for Invoicing Success

Invoice promptly. Don’t wait until “later.” Send it as soon as the work is done.

Set clear payment terms upfront. Avoid awkward conversations by putting it in your contract.

Follow up politely. A quick “just checking in” email 1-2 days after the due date is perfectly acceptable.

Stay organized. Use tools or spreadsheets to keep track of what’s been sent, paid, and overdue. —

Why Good Invoicing = Good Business

Invoicing isn’t just admin. It’s a reflection of your professionalism. Clear, well-designed invoices show clients that you’re serious, trustworthy, and ready to do business again. As a freelancer or creative pro, you wear a lot of hats. But “accountant” doesn’t have to be one of them.

Unlocking Your Potential – Complete a Creative Skills Audit

In today’s dynamic job market, creative professionals must be more than just imaginative. Whether you’re an aspiring designer, filmmaker, writer, or artist, your success depends heavily on a diverse skill set that goes beyond traditional creative abilities. Transferable skills – skills that apply across roles and industries – are vital for sustaining a long-term creative career. Understanding these skills and evaluating which you have lots of and which can be improved can help you grow, pivot, and thrive in the ever-evolving creative landscape.

What Are Transferable Skills in Creative Careers?

Transferable skills are abilities you develop through various life experiences-education, work, volunteering, and personal projects that are valuable in different job roles and industries. In creative careers, these skills are essential for collaboration, problem-solving, managing projects, and navigating uncertainty.

People often develop valuable transferable skills in non-creative industries that can seamlessly support a creative career. For example, working in hospitality helps build strong communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities—skills crucial for managing clients, meeting deadlines, and collaborating on creative projects. Teamwork in a fast-paced environment, handling difficult customers, or managing shifts are experiences that demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and leadership. When talking about these experiences, focus on how the skill was developed and how it applies to creative work. For instance, rather than simply saying “I worked in a bar,” you might say, “My experience managing customer interactions in a busy restaurant sharpened my communication and multitasking skills, which I now use when coordinating production timelines and working with diverse teams in creative settings.”

Key Transferable Skills for Creative Professionals

1. Personal Attributes

These include persistence, resilience, and self-confidence-traits that help you stay focused, bounce back from setbacks, and remain motivated through challenging projects.

2. People Skills

Effective communication, relationship-building, and networking are vital for creative collaboration and career advancement.

3. Employability Skills

Skills like initiative, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and time management ensure you can independently manage workloads and deliver value across different contexts.

4. Technical and Practical Skills

Even creatives must master tools of the trade-whether it’s design software, basic accounting, or social media marketing. These practical skills directly support creative output and business growth.

How to Complete a Creative Skills Audit

To truly understand your strengths and development areas, completing a creative skills audit is essential. Using a structured tool like the Creative Careers Skills Audit document, you can self-assess and reflect on your current capabilities. Here’s a simple Step-by-Step Guide:

DOWNLOAD THE SKILLS AUDIT TEMPLATE

1. Review the Skills Categories

The audit is divided into four main sections: Personal Attributes, People Skills, Other Employability Skills, Technical and Practical Skills

2. Rate Your Proficiency

Use a 1-5 scale: (1 = Not yet developed, 5 = Highly proficient). Be honest – this is about identifying growth areas, not just showcasing strengths.

3. Provide Evidence

For each skill, include a specific example that demonstrates how you’ve used it. For instance: Persistence (4): Completed a year-long independent documentary despite limited funding and setbacks.

4. Identify Patterns

After completing all sections, look for clusters: Are you strong in personal attributes but lacking in technical skills? Is time management an issue across multiple roles?

5. Set Development Goals

Use your audit to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. For example: “Improve my financial skills by completing an online course in creative budgeting by December.”

Why It Matters

A creative skills audit isn’t just a one-off task-it’s a career habit. It keeps you accountable, self-aware, and agile. By recognising which transferable skills are your strengths and which need development, you can seek opportunities that stretch your abilities, apply for roles with confidence, and future-proof your creative journey. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a mid-career shift, understanding and cultivating transferable skills is the key to unlocking your full potential in the creative industries. Revisit your audit every 6-12 months. Track your progress, update your evidence, and evolve with your creative goals.