professional development

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January 5, 2023

The Best Way to Ask for a Raise (Step-by-Step Guide)

Asking for a raise can feel uncomfortable, but it's one of the most important career conversations you'll have. Whether you've taken on more responsibility, consistently exceeded expectations, or discovered you're being paid below market value, preparing for a raise discussion can dramatically improve your chances of success. The key isn't simply asking for more money. It's demonstrating your value, understanding your market, and approaching the conversation professionally. In this guide, you'll learn when to ask for a raise, how much to request, what to say during the meeting, and what to do if the answer is no.

September 19, 2018

Performance Evaluation Time: How to Handle Workplace Reviews with Confidence

Performance evaluations can make even confident people anxious. Whether they're annual reviews, performance appraisals, or one-on-one meetings with a manager, it's natural to wonder how someone else views our work. Will they notice our strengths? Will they focus on our weaknesses? Will this affect my future? Honest feedback can be uncomfortable, but it can also become one of the greatest opportunities for growth. The key is learning how to receive evaluation without allowing it to determine your worth.

February 10, 2018

Lessons on Illustration, Creativity, and Building an Artistic Career from Katy Halford

Katy Halford is a children's book illustrator whose work spans publishing, commercial illustration, art licensing, and character design. After earning a degree in illustration, she built a successful freelance career through consistent practice, portfolio development, and a willingness to keep learning. In this interview, we discuss creative growth, working with publishers, building relationships with clients, overcoming rejection, and what aspiring illustrators can do to develop a sustainable artistic career. Although this conversation took place in 2018, many of the lessons about creativity, persistence, and professional development remain just as relevant today.

December 1, 2017

Illustrator Jo Painter on Creativity, Freelancing, and Breaking Into the Game Industry

Jo Painter is a freelance illustrator, concept artist, and animator whose creative journey began with little more than MS Paint, a computer mouse, and a determination to improve. Since then, she has worked with authors and companies around the world while building a portfolio aimed at the video game industry. In this interview, we discuss artistic growth, freelancing, client relationships, animation, technology, creativity, and what aspiring artists can learn from building a career in a competitive field.