Honesty Sells: Why Labeling Concept Work Matters
As a branding content curator, I see portfolios reshape careers, however honesty must be central to that story. This Creative Boom feature tackles a timely ethical dilemma, using voices from designers, directors, and recruiters. It explores why speculative projects can reveal potential, and why passing them off as commissioned work is harmful. You will read practical perspectives from people who hire, and those who create work on brief and for themselves. Expect clear guidance on labeling concept work, and smart strategies for turning speculative pieces into real opportunities.
Read it if you manage talent, hire designers, mentor students, or craft your own brand narrative. The piece balances nuance and practical advice, it does not moralize, it clarifies. Contributors like John Gilsenan, Stepan Solodkov, and Lola Hoad share lived examples, and recruiter’s insight shows hiring implications. You will learn how to present speculative work, and when to label it clearly. You will also learn to convert concepts into pitches that land real clients. For senior designers, this is a reminder that commercial experience matters. For juniors, it is a playbook for honest, effective portfolio building. See the full discussion.
Source: www.creativeboom.com
