Kiersa Notz
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Video Call
In Person
I really enjoy the challenge of finding a solution. That is why I enjoy my job so much. Design is about finding a solution to a communication problem. As a designer, you need to work with clients to determine what and how they want to communicate. Once that is determined, your challenge is to get that message across in an effective, aesthetically pleasing way, while at the same time pleasing your clients.
Since 1997, I have been the owner/art director for d iDee Design. Working out of one location, I am the sole employee….but with limitless connections. My company is a full capacity design firm, able to handle difficult multi-piece projects or simpler, smaller ones.
Here’s a bit of what we can cover in our PivotPlanet session(s):
• How to appease a client while staying true to your vision.
• How to make money - billing appropriately is incredibly important.
• How to balance your career with other creative outlets.
• How to find clients (and keep them).
• How to insure you continue to enjoy what you do without burning out or losing your passion.
Being self-employed is incredibly important to me. I am able to work more closely with my clients, and the added communication always ends in more positive results. I'm able to work from home, and when I need a refresher, I'm able to take my dog out for a run. I can clear my head and gain new perspective which translates into better design. I actually look forward to busy days and revel in the work I do. That's a rarity, and I'm very fortunate to love what I do and make a good living at the same time.
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I have known since my teens that a creative career was the direction I needed to take. I have been a designer since graduating from college.
At d iDee I work with clients to understand their needs and their timelines. I then develop solutions unique to each project. My goal is to take a company where it needs to go to be successful. I'm always proud when a client is truly pleased with my work, and it later translates into financial success for them. I have won multiple design awards from MMPA (Minnesota Magazine Publishers Association).
Over the years, I have learned a lot about being a designer and a small business owner. One of the most valuable lessons learned was to never, ever sign off on a proof for a client. I once ate a rather large printing bill because I was trying to save time and took the responsibility. The client wasn't happy, and, even when I paid for the re-print, I ultimately lost the client.
