As designers, we’re often inspired by industry leaders who’ve made significant strides in the field. Many of these influencers hail from the United States and have worked with big-name brands, offering advice that seems universally applicable. However, if you’re a designer living outside of the US, it’s crucial to recognise that this guidance might not align with the realities of your local market.
Global Market Realities
Outside the US, the product design market is often smaller with limited opportunities. In many countries, options beyond fintech are scarce, pushing designers towards advertising agencies where the work often revolves around creating local content for international brands. In Europe, for instance, the client pool is limited, and budgets don’t always match those of US companies. The tech industry’s epicentre is largely in the US, making niche opportunities even more elusive elsewhere.
The Privilege Gap
US-based design leaders often share insights without fully acknowledging their own privilege—the advantage of operating within a robust, opportunity-rich market. Advice like “niche down” or “align your work with your passions” might be feasible in the US, where you could, for example, leverage your love for trainers to land a job at Nike. However, for designers elsewhere, the priority might simply be securing any viable job, making such targeted approaches less practical.
Adapting Your Strategy
Given these disparities, it’s important to tailor your career strategy to your local context:
- Embrace Generalisation: While niching is celebrated in the US, being a generalist can make you more marketable in regions with fewer opportunities.
- Seize Available Opportunities: Don’t overlook roles that may not perfectly align with your passions but offer valuable experience and financial stability.
- Build a Diverse Portfolio: Work across various industries and project types to showcase versatility, making you a stronger candidate in a competitive market.
Keeping Dreams Alive
This isn’t to say you should abandon your aspirations of working with dream brands or on passion projects. Instead:
- Set Realistic Goals: Understand the steps required to reach your dream job and be prepared for a longer journey.
- Continuous Learning: Invest in your skill set to remain competitive, making you an attractive candidate regardless of location.
- Explore Local Opportunities: Focus on building relationships and seeking opportunities within your local industry, which might lead to unexpected paths towards your goals.
Putting Advice into Perspective
When consuming advice from US design leaders:
- Contextualise Their Insights: Recognise the differences in market dynamics and adjust the advice to fit your situation.
- Seek Local Mentors: Connect with successful designers in your region who understand the local landscape.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of global trends while grounding yourself in the realities of your local industry.
Conclusion
Navigating the design industry outside of the US presents unique challenges, but with the right perspective and strategies, you can build a fulfilling career. While it’s beneficial to learn from global leaders, always filter their advice through the lens of your local context. Stay adaptable, seize the opportunities available, and continue striving towards your dreams—no matter where you are in the world.
What are your thoughts on navigating the design industry in your country?