Ampli Podcast

Rethinking Design Careers: Beyond the Portfolio and Into the Real World


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Topic:

The evolving role of designers in today's workforce, why traditional career advice falls short, and how to unlock growth through systems thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and entrepreneurial curiosity.

What You’ll Learn:

* Why design portfolios and perfect CVs aren’t enough—and what really matters to employers.

* How thinking systemically can help you build a sustainable and fulfilling career in design.

* Where to look for inspiration and clients outside the design world.

* Alternative paths to traditional employment—like collectives, agencies, and building your own product.

* The importance of failure, curiosity, and learning from business to grow as a creative.

Key Takeaways:

* Mindset matters more than aesthetics—your ability to ask good questions, communicate clearly, and collaborate is key.

* Be curious about other systems—understand how politics, business, and institutions work to design with real-world impact.

* Go where the clients are—attend industry-specific events, not just design conferences.

* Explore new models—not everyone needs to freelance or take a job; you can build products or join/start collectives.

* Failure is part of the journey—you’ll learn more from building (and failing) than from staying in the comfort zone.……Berlin Design E.V | Website Berlin Design E.V Linkedin | Berlin Design Networkand you can follow Nick here



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Ampli PodcastBy Ampli