Ask the Designers: Nov. 2017
Welcome to the blog’s newest segment: “Ask the Designers.” Once a month, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the life of our designers – President Shawn O’Mara, Vice President Jesse Mader, Art Director Nina Zivkovic, and Graphic Designer Laura Smith. We’ll give you tips, resources, and even a few fun facts about us.
1. What do you do when you have designer’s block?
SHAWN:
I go and teach. I teach so many talented designers at The Art institute of Pittsburgh, Duquesne and Chatham and they keep me inspired with fresh creativity.
JESSE:
I literally put myself in the shoes of one of my heroes and imagine how they would handle the situation. For instance, I would ask myself, “What would Walt Disney do?”
NINA:
Walking down to the coffee shop. Nothing like a good ol’ cup of Coffee and a walk to restart yourself.
LAURA:
I always go on Pinterest for ideas when I’m feeling uninspired – Pinterest is filled with great design inspiration accounts and tools!
2. What’s your secret to keeping a good client relationship?
SHAWN:
Be yourself.. I love design and being creative. The clients know when it is genuine or a BS sales pitch.
JESSE:
Mutual respect is the key to any good relationship. We respect what they do, and they respect what we do.
NINA:
Your authentic personality and honesty! If I’m super excited, I’ll literally type it out or say it to the client. I use more exclamation points than ‘Elaine Benes’ did in Seinfeld!! You can be professional while still having fun and honest, and adding that and your personality to a conversation helps build a good relationship without being too stiff and fake.
LAURA:
Even though I’m fresh out of school, I’ve been learning along the way. I don’t know if I have a “secret,” but I definitely always try to stay positive, respond as quickly as I can, and always say thank you!
3. Coke or Pepsi?
SHAWN:
Diet Pepsi – But I gotta start making better choices. : )
JESSE:
Coke Zero. And Turkey. And gravy and stuffing.
NINA:
Ugh. If I have to choose, my 2017 self says Coke.
LAURA:
Definitely Coke. Not even a question.
