The Big Book Crit launches to help young creatives get ahead

The DMA, IDM Employability and the Graeme Robertson Trust have joined forces to create a new programme for creative students to meet industry professionals

Today the DMA, IDM Employability and the Graeme Robertson Trust announce the launch of a new UK-wide mentoring programme to help young creatives take their first steps in the industry. Named the Big Book Crit, the evenings will be an opportunity for students to meet industry experts and to have their existing work critiqued by some of the UK’s leading Creative Directors.

The Big Book Crit kicks off with events on 20^th and 21^st April 2016 in London, Bristol and Norwich, further events will follow later this year in Manchester and Edinburgh. The events will each include talks from experienced creative professionals, networking and an opportunity for attendees to have their existing books of work reviewed, with a winner being announced at the end of each event.

Kate Burnett, Managing Director of IDM Employability said: “The Big Book Crit is a fantastic opportunity for young people to not only rub shoulders with potential future employers, but actually get valuable critiques from them too. We’ve been working on ways to improve the employability chances for students and this fantastic initiative is proof of our ongoing commitment in this area. It will give access to some of the most experienced creatives in the direct and digital industry right across the country which we believe is very important.”

Rob Kavanagh, Creative Director at Proximity commented: “This event will give students direct access to highly experienced professionals to practice presenting their work, taking feedback and gain insight on what to expect from a career in the creative sector.”

Cordell Burke, Creative Managing Partner at Big Dog added: “Think of it as speed-dating for creatives. It’s a great way to learn how to present your ideas clearly and concisely.”

Ian Bates, Creative Director at The Real Adventure Unlimited, also said: “It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to spot the future. Building relationships, even at this early stage, is crucial.”

For more information visit the DMA’s website or if you would like to attend one of the Big Book Crit events (or know somebody that should) you can sign-up at http://bit.ly/BigBookCrit.