Submit The Perfect Coroflot Application With These 8 Tips
Enter a caption (optional)With the newly revamped Coroflot application process, we've set a more defined bar, one that we believe reflects the standards of the companies that trust us as the go-to source for hiring creative talent. The application process is also meant to bring out the finest work in the Coroflot community and to support the members who have worked hard to develop their skillsets. Think of your Coroflot profile as a calling card, something that will be seen by the world's most respected companies. In other words, the stakes are high and so are the standards we use.
Because our team personally reviews every application, we think it's only fair to provide you with some insight on what we look for in a portfolio application. For many of you, some of these pointers may seem like basic common sense, especially to seasoned designers, but it never hurts to have a refresher. So, without further ado, here are 8 tips to help you ace the Coroflot application process!
1. Show you're a professional
Professional work demonstrates a competent working knowledge of basic design principles, tight presentation, and a clearly expressed vision. We go through an extensive group of applicants every day, and making sure every aspect of your application is top notch, cohesive, and relevant makes it easy for us to accept you. Technique, tone, and presentation are everything.
2. Share your specialties
When companies and recruiters are looking for talent, the first thing they want to verify is whether or not you're a fit for the position they need to fill. Having a few specialities listed in your profile gives you a chance to immediately let the world know what it is you do professionally. You only need to list one of your specialities when submitting your Coroflot application, and maybe you only have one. That's perfectly alright! You will, however, have the option to add up to three specialties, and we suggest doing that if you think you can.
3. Demonstrate knowledge
Every profession has rules specific to its culture and philosophies. In the design world, these break down to certain standards that are pervasive throughout each medium. Some rules are written, some unspoken, and almost all are slightly subjective. However, in order to break the rules, the work has to be exceptional, imaginative, or extremely clever. Most of us know not to use comic sans, squish our fonts in type treatments, or lean too heavily on Photoshop filters. If you're submitting an application to Coroflot, we recommend choosing work samples that demonstrate your knowledge of the culture of your craft.
4. Grammar, grammar, grammar
Using proper grammar and checking for typos is common sense. Unfortunately, some of us tend to overlook this step. Take a second glance over your application before you submit it and chances are you will catch errors. Surely there are exceptions, but even a single typo could turn off potential employers from taking your portfolio and your work seriously. Double check, triple check, ask a friend to look at it - do whatever you need to do to feel confident that your grammar game is on point!
5. Visuals rule everything around me
One of the most important parts of the Coroflot application process is uploading samples of your work. In the professional world, first impressions are everything and you should think of your three samples as your chance to make a first impression. When recruiters are seeking talent or your peers are checking out your work, the first thing they will notice when they look at your portfolio will be your three work samples. These samples should not only blow minds, but also demonstrate the range of your work. Also, make sure they are YOUR best work and not someone else's. For more on copyright, please read our Terms of Use.
6. Link to greatness
As you make your way through the application process, you'll notice a field to enter up to three links. We live in the age of media saturation, and sometimes having one outlet to show off your work just isn't enough. Most importantly, you want to give companies, peers, and even admirers every possible outlet to connect with you and your work. Got a personal website? Add a link! Instagram? Add a link! Facebook or Twitter? Add a link! Showing you're connected to the world is showing you're qualified, confident, and not afraid to get your name out there!
7. Creative community means you
Coroflot is a community for individuals. What keeps that community strong is you, the creative-type posting your finest work. If we were to open the Coroflot community up to design firms and other businesses, it would completely change the dynamic of the site. We love seeing the work that you personally do. Make sure that when you are submitting an application, you are doing so for yourself and not on behalf of your company. If you represent a firm and you're interested in posting to Coroflot, we recommend applying for a listing on our sister site, Design Directory!
8. Spend time on your personal summary
Aside from your work samples, your personal summary is the most important part of the application process. Not only does it tell the Coroflot team and potential employers all about who you are, but it's also your elevator pitch on what makes you stand out. We recommend keeping it relevant and concise, telling us about your creative professional background will do just fine. This part of the application is an opportunity to give a framework for the context of your work. It is especially crucial if your area of expertise doesn't always lend itself to visual presentation.
Got a question about the application process? Feel free to connect with us on Facebook and Twitter or shoot us an email: support@coroflot.com. Get started on your application today!
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