Design & code at DoorDash, prev. Instagram, Headspace, Red Bull.

Frank Bach

I don't think there's one simple answer to this, but I can share with you how I'm navigating it. I'm 37 now, a dad and find myself less interested in technical tools and more into strategy and using design to drive ROI. I think that sets me apart. I've tried to get 'away' from growth type roles most of my career but they keep drawing me back in. I guess that's one way - find a specialty that's in high demand (like design systems, etc.) and become a killer at it. You're right that there are tons of younger folks on the market, and they're probably cheaper talent too. But they don't come with the rigor and expertise that you do. I've also navigated this by going WIIIIDE with my application. I've worked in healthcare, sports and entertainment, social media, creators, AI/ML, ecommerce, founded my own studio, and way more. If an opportunity pops up, or I find myself out of work I'm confident I can pivot my portfolio to at least get me a call back. 

This sounds conceded maybe, but focus on big brands if you can. I've got three: Red Bull, Headspace, Instagram. And let me tell you, the doors are always open at least for an initial conversation. No trouble getting interviews even in the darkest times. 

Find yourself a unique selling point. Are you a go-to person for XYZ? Personal brand is  helpful as you get older and worth thinking about how you do that. Be known for something, it keeps you differentiated on the market. 

As far as remaining IC - try to find companies that value this. Being pushed into management due to seniority doesn't sit right with me and I think we're much better utilized as designers. Do you think Milton Glaser, John Maeda, Paula Scher made for good managers? I mean, they probably wouldn't be too bad but I don't think it's what they're known for. And that's the path I'm on. 

Networking has been a theme in my life, and I recommend anyone do this while they're employed. Connect connect connect. Have that coffee chat. Get out there and meet people when you don't need a job, and you'll be much less stressed when that time comes. 

And the cherry on top, is to get yourself a nest egg of 3-6mo spend so that if you find yourself out of work you can take your time picking the next opportunity. Easier said than done, but it's a reality we need to deal with today. 

I don't think there's one simple answer to this, but I can share with you how I'm navigating it. I'm 37 now, a dad and find myself less interested in technical tools and more into strategy and using design to drive ROI. I think that sets me apart. I've tried to get 'away' from growth type roles most of my career but they keep drawing me back in. I guess that's one way - find a specialty that's in high demand (like design systems, etc.) and become a killer at it. 

You're right that there are tons of younger folks on the market, and they're probably cheaper talent too. But they don't come with the rigor and expertise that you do. 

I've also navigated this by going WIIIIDE with my application. I've worked in healthcare, sports and entertainment, social media, creators, AI/ML, ecommerce, founded my own studio, and way more. If an opportunity pops up, or I find myself out of work I'm confident I can pivot my portfolio to at least get me a call back. 

This sounds conceded maybe, but focus on big brands if you can. I've got three: Red Bull, Headspace, Instagram. And let me tell you, the doors are always open at least for an initial conversation. No trouble getting interviews even in the darkest times. 

Find yourself a unique selling point. Are you a go-to person for XYZ? Personal brand is  helpful as you get older and worth thinking about how you do that. Be known for something, it keeps you differentiated on the market. 

As far as remaining IC - try to find companies that value this. Being pushed into management due to seniority doesn't sit right with me and I think we're much better utilized as designers. Do you think Milton Glaser, John Maeda, Paula Scher made for good managers? I mean, they probably wouldn't be too bad but I don't think it's what they're known for. And that's the path I'm on. 

Networking has been a theme in my life, and I recommend anyone do this while they're employed. Connect connect connect. Have that coffee chat. Get out there and meet people when you don't need a job, and you'll be much less stressed when that time comes. 

And the cherry on top, is to get yourself a nest egg of 3-6mo spend so that if you find yourself out of work you can take your time picking the next opportunity. Easier said than done, but it's a reality we need to deal with today. 

What are you thoughts on being competitive as a designer with 20y of experience yet maintain the IC path? How does one compete on the market with super capable 10y-younger designers out there? I can stay on the IC path forever for what I know, but I do need to think about my relevancy on the market. I'm fortunate to have a job now. But that can change tomorrow. 

Frank Bach

How can a designer with 20 years of experience stay competitive on the IC path with younger talent?

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Frank Bach