Drawn! The Illustration and Cartooning Blog

No: During times of no work don't obsess about your work. Spend time with your friends and family, enjoy life, feed your head, relax. Yes, self-promotion is important but don't lose sight of the fact that illustration's a job like any other and that there is life beyond work.

Yes, deadlines are absolutely key. The best way to get in good with an AD is to be a couple days early as a general rule. In my experience, some of them are genuinely shocked at the notion of receiving art on time, so it's an easy way to establish a good reputation.

I can so relate to this list.

And it's so true about sticking to deadlines. Art directors and editors really, really appreciate people who are either on time with their work, or miracle of miracles, early! I am learning that it's best to discuss deadlines at the very beginning, and see if you can negotiate more time, especially if you are working on numerous projects simultaneously.

I would also add that one shouldn't be afraid to make suggestions and provide feedback in terms of the art direction you are given. So far in my experiences, my input has been much appreciated, and sometimes my suggestions are implemented into the project.

I think the best one on here was the "call up past client for gentle reminder" advise. I'd never have thought to be that bold, but it makes sense, as long as you're friendly and polite and don't take up too much of their time.

Fairly general set of rules. I linked it in my schools forum. :)