I've decided to do a series of video reviews of design portfolios from the Styleapple Network.  There is no science to who I'll select for review, simply that the designer's internal portfolio (on Styleapple)  and external portfolio (Own website) is built with the potential client in mind.  Meaning that the design portfolio is an effective marketing tool, keeping the visitor engaged from the minute they enter the website to the end where they are either filling out a conversion form or picking up the phone to inquire about your design services.  The goal of this series is to showcase designers that are effectively using their design portfolios to get leads and ultimately acquire new clients. 

The hope is that this will allow designers and design firms to see what tools they can implement to improve their marketing effectiveness online. 

The first installation of the series is a review of Industrial Designer, Jonathan Smith.  Please leave your feedback and comments below.

Increase your chances of being featured on Styleapple 5 Minute Portfolio review by creating a design or brand portfolio here.

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Today as I was driving home, I heard a song on the radio by Jay Z. Just when I thought that I had heard every record Jay Z will make, and signed him off as a rapper that had his moment, he came out with a collaboration with Kanye West and Rihanna called "Run This Town". A song and video that pulled me right back to bobbing my head to the music and feeling like Jay Z just got his swagger back.

As designers we have an advantage over many other professionals. We have the ability to completely lose ourselves in the imagination of possibilities, chase our creativity to new horizons, and seek new inspiration from the tiniest things. But even when that fails, we still have our creative colleagues to help us out.

Collaboration is becoming more and more important as we find ourselves surrounded by a world of talent. Yes, there are those that create genius by locking themselves away from the world and in 3 month produce miracles, but I'm guessing that they are in the minority. In my experience the best design work usually comes from the synergistic collaboration of the right creative design team.

As freelance designers, it can be hard sometimes to brainstorm when it's only you and the voice in your head at the round table. Try to find three to five creative pros like yourself whose expertise is different from yours and start building a killer A-Team to work on new design projects.

Competition is fierce today. Customers have many options to choose from. With everyone looking to be successful, the demand for quality and the bar for perfection have risen. You have to be effective, efficient, and frankly... damn good if you want your customers to talk about you or continue to give you new business.

Creating that shortlist of your top talents can lead to many new opportunities and design projects that may not have been possible otherwise.

Are You Looking For Designers To Collaborate With? 

Join The Styleapple Design Network: Build Your Design Team>>

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Sometimes a new freelance designer will find himself in an awkward position when managing finances. If you're working on a tight budget, which is normally the case with designers starting out in freelancing, the tendency is to seek work anywhere and everywhere, just to keep your business afloat.

In the beginning stages do your best to stay on the path you've outlined for your freelance business. Refer to your business plan, esp. your marketing and branding plans to guide you. I know as Styleapple grows we are faced with deciding who to partner and work with in order to maintain a consistency in our brand promise.

As your business grows, be aware of the projects and companies your brand is associated with. Just because their paying you doesn't mean it's the right gig for you. If the job doesn't align with your personal brand or the brand promise of your design firm, I would probably not recommend you take the job. Of course, if not taking the job means that your business fails, then you'll have to do what you have to do.

Overall, staying true to your core brand promise will keep your company on the right path giving you a better platform in which to grow. Diluting your brand for short term gain only clutters your message, making it much more difficult to define your brand to potential clients.

Are You Looking To Hire A Designer? 

Get A Free Project Quote From The Styleapple Design Network: Get A Freelancer>>

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It's Official, Styleapple - The Branded Designers Social Network Has Launched

We have arrived.  Our website is now live and we are so excited.  After several months of very hard work, I am happy to announce that we are officially "open for business"  If you haven't already, remember to create your designer or design company profile on the Styleapple website.  Our appetite for helping designers "Get Branded" are bigger than our stomachs, so don't miss this opportunity to partner with us on our mission to get you branded.  

Thank you everyone for all the support and hard work you've put into this project. 

I've included our press release below:

btw:  Our release is also on Yahoo News, please buzz us up: Here is the link: LAUNCH SPRING 2009:  New Social Network Launches To Get Designers Branded   

Thanks again guys.

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(1)   Differentiate: Focus. Focus. Focus - Who are you? What do you do? Why does it matter?
(2)   Collaborate: Your brand is not what you say it is, it's what they (clients and customers) say it is. 
(3)   Innovate - Creativity is what give brands traction in the marketplace. "How do you know when an idea is innovative - When it scares the hell out of everyone." 
(4)   Validate - Feedback. Feedback. Feedback. Bring your audience into the creative process.
(5)   Cultivate: Brand building is a process, not an entity. A living brand is a pattern of behavior, not a stylish veneer.

"The challenge is no longer only about finding a creative vision, it's now more so about bringing that vision to the marketplace successfully," explains Calvin.

As Styleapple continues to develop a network for design firms to successfully market their brands. They are adamant about the development of effective social media tools that will expand their members brands seamlessly across the web, ultimately and intuitively reaching their demographics while separating them from their competition. As is evident from the Styleapple tag line: STANDOUT-- Get Branded.

"We are very excited about bringing Styleapple to the design community. Our mission is to provide the marketing (tools, space, resources, framework) that enables designers to be successful at what they do best," concludes Calvin.

ABOUT STYLEAPPLE
Styleapple Is The Branded Designers Social Network. Styleapple is a social network developed for creative professionals seeking to effectively promote and market their design businesses, whether you are a novice freelance designer or an established design firm looking to build your brand.

Founded by Calvin Cox, a former New York Fashion Designer and a Fashion Institute of Technology Alumni, Styleapple's global design community boasts a cross section of creative pros with backgrounds in art, advertising fashion design, industrial design, interior design as well as interactive design, illustration, animation and web design to name a few.

Our goal is simple, to develop a platform that will effectively utilize social networking and inbound marketing techniques to promote and build your design company's brand. For more information please visit styleapple.com

Source: Styleapple, Inc
http://www.styleapple.com

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As you know, we have been working on the Styleapple website for several months now and are finally ready to launch this baby.  Today we sent out the pre-launch email to our wonderful beta testers who partnered with us in our 'bug hunting' endeavors. 

As a result of their hard work we are excited to announce that Styleapple is set to launch on Tuesday, April 21, 2009.  If you haven't already, create your designer or design company profile and let's get this ball rolling.

I've included the email we sent to our beta testers early this morning outlining some of the features of the new website.  I will probably not do another post before the website launches (bussssssssssssssy)  but you can always connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or via email.

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Early last week I wrote an article from a Salesman's perspective in sharing with you my top 10 list of features all design portfolio websites should have. Today, I'm writing this post from the shoes of your potential client.

When I decided to develop the Styleapple website, I spent a lot of time searching for the right web designer , which has given me a lot of hands-on experience when looking for a web design company.  The experience has thought me a lot, and I wanted to take some time to share with you how an informed client might select your design services.

Decision 1 - First. He'll look at your website's homepage to get an immediate feel for your company. First impressions are alive and well, even on the internet. So make sure your homepage is intriguing enough for your potential visitor to want to dig deeper. One effective way I've seen this done is the Amalga Media website: http://www.amalgamedia.com, where their About Us page was their homepage, introducing the company and people in a fun informative way, immediately drawing you into their website.

Decision 2 - Next, he'll take a look at your previous projects that are hopefully featured on your website. The 1st and 2nd impressions will be mostly visual.

Decision 3 -He'll then look at your About Me or About Us pages.... briefly. Just to get an idea of who you are and what you do (your design expertise).

Decision 4 - Then he will go back to your previous projects to find a project you have done that's similar to the one he needs you to work on.

Decision 5 - If he finds one, he will want to know more details about that particular project (if he doesn't he will look at individual details of all your projects to find similarities in style and functionality between what you have worked on and what he needs done).

TIP:
Assuming that he finds a similar project in your portfolio, he will want to know if you've done other projects similar to that one. So grouping projects together is a good idea, maybe having links to similar projects nearby or suggestive links of similar projects. Your goal here is to direct the client to exactly what he's looking for.

Decision 6 - If he's impressed by what he sees, he will then check your references. I would recommend having your references easily assessable. If your references have sufficient contact information, he may contact them before even speaking with you... allowing your references to help you sell your services.

Decision 7 - If your references are satisfactory, he will want to read more about you, or your company, i.e. quote information, brand philosophy, location, pricing, etc. This can be satisfied through an About Me page, FAQ, or your company blog.

TIP:
I would stay away from having website visitors download your resume. People are finicky about downloading anything from the internet. You can give them the option of downloading your resume, or an online alternative.

Decision 8 - Once he has finished reading about you or your design company, he may want to contact you personally. Having a phone number and/or an instant message contact on your site would be ideal... esp. if your design company is global.

Decision 9 - After he speaks with you, he may still have some questions, which will lead him to your blog. In sales, this would be your closing argument or statement. This is to confirm that you are indeed what he's looking for. Hopefully you have been blogging about your industry and have engaged the creative community in some worthwhile discussions on design.

Decision 10 - If you blog closes the deal, your potential client will pick up his phone (again) and give you a call, or send you an email, fill out your form, instant message you, or send you a text tellingquote you that he would like you to work on his project. The rest is up to you... Your website has now effectively done its job. Congratulations.

Keep in mind, this is only one scenario. You'll find that your clients are more informed, and will use your design blog as their introduction to your design services, so make sure to write articles that will appeal to your potential clients.

Remember: The goal is to engage your potential clients early. You want to pique their interest and keep them engaged right up until they contact you. Consider my 4C's to website conversion when developing a website for your design portfolio or company. Contact. Connect. Convince and Close
The bottom line is that you have to think like your clients in order to get their business.

What other techniques do you use to improve your website conversion?

Are You Looking To Hire A Designer? 

Get A Free Project Quote From The Styleapple Design Network: Get A Freelancer>>

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Design Job Description: "JACK OF ALL TRADES... NOT WANTED"

I meet designers who are involved in so many areas of design it's insane.  I mean I understand how common this is, after all creativity expands.  It is normal for a designer to know and have an interest in many things creative.   I say,  continue to immerse  yourself in the creative culture.  It's a great way to add to your inspiration and design perspective.  BUT....  You should choose what area of design you want your clients to see when promoting and marketing your design business.

The social media and the advent of the global design community have made the design industry a fruitful declaration of art and creativity.  We are seeing the most talented people  ever, showcasing incredible works of  art from graphic design to fashion design to animation design and so on.  

We no longer need to find someone that can do it all.  We are looking for someone that can do it right.... Which translates to someone that eats and sleeps a certain area of design.  So If you are a fashion designer  with major illustration capabilities.  Decide which one you want to be, a designer or illustrator - at least to your clients. 

Please do not misunderstand me.  I'm not saying to stop illustrating.  What I'm simply saying is to market and promote the fact that you are a fashion designer that does beautiful illustrations of  your clothing as oppose to being a Fashion designer and an Illustrator.

Use your other assets (in this case your illustration abilities) as the supporting cast for your number one priority (Fashion Design)  This will then add value to your services rather than dilute your expertise.

We are now in the time of experts and no longer need a jack of all trades, when a specialist is a click away.

"Thanks for listening"  Just a thought I had as I was having a discussion with a good friend of mine about branding strategies for design companies  and wanted to share with my you.

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We've been working hard, very hard these past few months on some major projects I believe will assist my designer colleagues who are looking to create some success in 2009 and beyond.

We are now in beta for our new website: www.styleapple.com which has been going very well, Thanks to all our beta testers for taking part in our bug hunting process. BTW, We are still accepting beta testers as we continue to develop the site. [Become A Beta Tester]

Branded Designers - The Agency,  Camille Wilkinson - Fashion Designer From New York City

We have also started Branded Designers - The Agency. I've always had a desire to help young designers grow their businesses. The Agency will do just that. Branded Designers - The Agency is a talent agency focused in the creative industry. We will represent a selected group of designers, providing the personalized service designers need when starting a new venture or simply finding new freelance projects.

We are currently accepting applications until we have reached our capacity. The Agency will only represent a few selected designers in order for us to effectively serve the designers we represent. All remaining applications will be placed on our waiting list.

To apply simply submit your profile on www.styleapple.com and send us an email title: Branded Designers Application, please include your name, title and location in the email.
I looking forward to working with you.

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We have been working on Styleapple.com - The Branded Designers Social Network  [A place  for designers to create or submit their portfolios website URL, Promote their work, find new creative jobs, build their fan base and become fans of other designers]  for the past few months and we are now ready to show our readers the (Private) beta version. 

We are not ready to go into full beta until we've ironed out all the kinks.  You guys get the first stab at it.  I've included the email below that we sent to close friends and investors(family) which includes the username and password to enter the site, you guys made the list for the first rollout.  Please give us your feedback on the site.  Thanks.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. WOO-HOO, Styleapple.com Private Beta Is Here! Dear Creative Pros You have been selected or have expressed interest in the past to be a part of our private beta testing.  We are still very actively in development but wanted to give our designers a chance to start testing the site.  Since this is private beta, we expect more than normal hiccups and bugs in the software.  Please be candid and give us all your feedback... Go ahead we promise not to take it personally.   To login visit www.styleapple.com, Username: beta   Password: tester    Once you've scaled our beta wall. You can create or submit your design portfolio to be viewed and envied by your peers while positioning yourself to be seen by future employers or freelance and project work opportunities.  Our goal is to find creative ways to help promote and grow your design business. Thank you for being a part of our private beta test squad. Sincerely Calvin --  Calvin Cox Director of Talent Resource calvin@styleapple.com Styleapple, Inc www.styleapple.com Build & Promote Your Own Design Portfolio Website In Minutes. | Our goal is simple; to provide an invaluable resource for clients looking to discover and hire the brightest talent in the design industry. | *|LIST:DESCRIPTION|* Unsubscribe *|EMAIL|* from this list | Forward to a friend | Update your profile Our mailing address is: *|HTML:LIST_ADDRESS_HTML|* Copyright (C) 2008 *|LIST:COMPANY|* All rights reserved.

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THE INTERVIEW

What is Your Name? Joseph Muscarella What Industry do you work in?  Graphic Design/ Art Direction What Company do you work for or own?  amplified© graphic design Website: http://www.amplified.cc/ Where  are you located? USA, NJ, Freehold Email: jmusc@amplified.cc

How long have you worked as a Designer? 10 years

Why did you get into design? As a child I found myself constantly with a pencil and paper. Unfortunately I was never a great illustrator. I grew up and started with computer graphics as a way to get my ideas out there, and everyone seemed to enjoy my work. I love taking a concept and turning it into art. I continued my education in design, and I have been involved it in every facet. Even when I had jobs that didn't require any design work I always ended up working on something graphic related. To this day I run my freelance design company, amplified© graphic design.

What 3 Characteristics do you Believe Make up a Great Designer? Creativity, Passion, Eye for balance and layout.

What Projects are you most proud of?  Power of One Fitness, Inc. Complete corporate Identity and total rework of the entire company from logo to layout of facility. www.powerofonefitness.com http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=655242&l=c957a&id=606608967

Spotlight Events The corporate Identity for this company alone landed this new company enough clients to get off the ground. I was said that the design made people believe in the company's professionalism. The owner Scott Cortese could not thank me enough. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=495650&l=3af42&id=606608967

Jes Makeup I am proud of this corporate identity because I created it for a friend that had a small business and it was not making any money. I did the job as a favor to her. The company's new corporate image changed the direction of the company and I am happy to say her clients are steady. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1539916&l=5c2dc&id=606608967

Do you work on all your personal projects exclusively or do you hire other designers  to work on them as well?  Personally

Name 3 Designers or design companies you would trust and hire to work on your personal or business projects:  Name: Chad Bishop Email: chad@thedeliveryagency.com Website: www.thedeliveryagency.com Name: Paul Zara Email: paulzara13@comcast.net Website: http://coroflot.com/paulzara Name: Chris Espiritu Email: espirtiu.chris@gmail.com Website: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=39589163&id=8835700#/photo.php?pid=39589163&id=8835700

 Find this designer complete profile in the dSL Project Directory.

About The dSL Project:
The dSL Project is a community of designers, clients and potential clients working together to enhance the designer-client experience. The Designers Short List Project (dSL) was developed primarily for clients not familiar with the design industry who are looking to hire a designer but cannot decide which designer or design company to choose. 

My goal is to find talented seasoned as well as emerging designers in the industry, ask them 6 basic questions every client would want to know before hiring a designer, giving them a strong starting point in their search for the right designer or design company. If you would like to be a part of this project, simply add your profile to the dSL directory and name your top 3.

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