The Brain Loves Food
Food can be delicious. Food can be an experience. Food can be gross. At the end of the day, food is a source of energy. The brain feeds of this food in order to properly function. With the right diet, lunch can give you that extra boost of energy you need to help you make it to the end of the work day. Some foods that can boost you brain function include fish, blueberries, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds. There’s a list of brain-boosting foods here.
Exercise Those Aching Muscles
Most people know that sitting at a desk all day is not good for your health, so why not take the time to go out of the office to stretch out your muscles? According to Mayo Clinic, leaving the office for a walk can relieve some of the strain from your spine and muscles.
Taking a Break Improves Concentration
Give your brain some time to relax. Taking a break for 15-20min break is proven to help with sustained concentration and helps to improve cognitive functions. Especially in the creative space, not taking a break can really hinder your creativity as well. Go outside during your lunch to help you garnish some inspiration.
Not Feeling Hungry, Take a Nap
If you’re like me, sometimes you need to run out some of your stress or lift some weights to give you that extra boost of energy. A quick 30-min workout can boost your energy throughout the day. Not only that, but it also produces the happy feelings you might need to make it throughout the rest of your work day.
Remember, we’re human and our bodies and souls need a little break from time to time. Take that lunch break. Catch some sunrays. And get that rest and fuel you may need. Work will always be there and the best way to be productive is to take care of yourself!
It’s ok if you had a late breakfast and not feeling like having a full lunch. It’s still a good idea to have a small snack. It can also be a great idea to have a quick power nap. It’s also proven that taking quick little 15-20min naps throughout the day can increase productivity as well. It’s becoming more and more common for companies to have sleeping pods available for these naps too!
Get That Mid-Day Workout Boost
If you’re like me, sometimes you need to run out some of your stress or lift some weights to give you that extra boost of energy. A quick 30-min workout can boost your energy throughout the day. Not only that, but it also produces the happy feelings you might need to make it throughout the rest of your work day.
Remember, we’re human and our bodies and souls need a little break from time to time. Take that lunch break. Catch some sunrays. And get that rest and fuel you may need. Work will always be there and the best way to be productive is to take care of yourself!
5. BE PREPARED TO COMPLETE A DESIGN EXERCISE
It is a much-debated topic among our design candidates on whether or not the design test is an effective leg of the hiring process. For more senior candidates it can be unnecessary and overly time consuming. However, for junior candidates it’s one of the most effective ways for a prospective hiring manager to test a designer’s time management, accuracy, and creativity. If you are asked to do one, do it. I have seen candidates offer to do one without the hiring manager asking and making it to the offer stage several times. In a crowded marketplace, a design exercise is a great opportunity to stand out.
Perhaps the first role you are offered after you finish school isn’t where you would like to be, not the role in the creative process you are most passionate about, or not with a highly-acclaimed brand. As a professional, every opportunity is a chance to sharpen your craft, network, and find where you would like to end up.
No one expects someone to remain in a role for a lifetime as was the culture decades ago. Signing on for a role does not mean an absolute, decided trajectory. In fact, some of our clients find it to be a bit of red flag when a candidate’s resume doesn’t reflect steady advancement. Nothing says ‘good designer’ like someone who is both creative and always looking to improve. You can demonstrate a desire to learn through collaboration and time. Though, its important to note that a wise creative realizes that advancement does not simply come with time but with intention.
Okay, okay – this may seem like an obvious bias, but based on conversations that I have with numerous junior candidates they all agree: a recruiter that advocates for them is vital to enhancing their chances of getting hired. As a recruiter, we can explain each designer’s unique background to the hiring manager. Essentially, recruiters are the modern, walking, talking replacement for a cover letter. Our direct line of communication with the hiring manager gives a personal impression of each designer we represent – that’s not something you can get with just an amazing portfolio.
Here at 80Twenty, we pride ourselves on our boutique approach to sourcing for designers and often when a client approaches us to consult on what level of talent they need, we first look to see if a well skilled junior designer could work well for their brand and need. Companies need all kinds of people. It’s each person’s background and practice that make someone “the right fit” not an unlimited source of original creativity. Check out our current open roles and submit your resume today.
Annika Brytnse is the co-founder and CEO of 80Twenty, a company recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in San Francisco, CA, under her leadership. With a rich background directing prominent Digital Media and Advertising agencies, Annika brings extensive expertise in Media, Marketing, Advertising, and Creative industries. Her profound understanding of these sectors has been instrumental in shaping 80Twenty's success and establishing it as a pivotal player in the industry.
