Address the following topics, using the following sets of questions to guide you in narrating your professional story. Use your process and research to develop a thesis assessing your current position and preparation within your industry, as well as next steps toward achieving your dream, or another argument you wish to make about yourself and your field.

Do not repeat the provided questions as part of your writing, give one-sentence answers (such as, “My competition is other photographers.”), or answer with simple yes or no. Don’t tell us what you already know: Discuss and analyze your ability to compete or outline your thoughts on competition. In other words, dig beneath the surface. Research and make information meaningful. Present your thorough responses in well-developed paragraphs.

Goals and Philosophy: What are your short- and long-term professional goals? What is your artistic philosophy? Describe what satisfies you about your creative process. How does your process reflect your artistic philosophy and professional goals? Describe a problem you’ve faced in your work, and explain how you solved it. 

Marketplace: Who hires for the position you seek? Who is your competition? What is the average salary of the position? (For those who are fine artists or who intend to go into business for yourselves, what is the competitive price range for your work/service? What methods are used to calculate price?) How will you promote yourself to beat the competition?

Skills and Tools: What specific skills must you have to fulfill your professional goals? What skills do you have now? What skills must you attain? How have your skills been rated thus far? What are the tools of your trade? Which tools have you mastered? How is technology changing the way your industry operates? What is required of a professional portfolio/demo reel/resume in your industry?

Networking: What journals and affiliations are prominent in your field? What is required to join the most prominent organizations associated with your industry? What are the benefits of membership? Are there annual conferences or conventions intended for networking and professional development within your field? What role do social and professional networking sites play in making connections in your industry?

The Future: Where would you like to work? Research and describe a specific employer in your industry as well as the workplace environment. Why do you want to work there? If your goal is to be self-employed, what existing business or artist might you model and why? What will make your work marketable to your chosen audience?