What do you do if your self-employed industrial design career lacks key skills?

2 Learn from online resources

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to learn new skills or refresh your existing ones is to use online resources. There are plenty of websites, platforms, courses, tutorials, podcasts, blogs, and videos that offer valuable information and guidance on various topics related to industrial design. Some of the popular ones include Udemy, Lynda, Coursera, Skillshare, The Futur, SolidWorks, InVision, and Design Matters. You can choose the ones that suit your learning style, budget, and schedule, and follow them regularly to stay updated and inspired.

3 Enroll in formal education

Another option is to enroll in formal education programs that can provide you with a structured and comprehensive curriculum, a recognized credential, and access to expert instructors and peers. You can opt for short-term courses, workshops, certificates, diplomas, or even degrees in industrial design or related fields, depending on your goals and needs. You can find many online or hybrid programs that allow you to study at your own pace and convenience, or you can look for local institutions that offer in-person or blended learning. Some examples of reputable schools that offer industrial design education are Stanford, MIT, Parsons, RISD, and Pratt.

4 Join a community

Learning new skills is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about applying it, sharing it, and getting feedback on it. That's why joining a community of like-minded industrial designers can be very beneficial for your skill development. You can find online or offline communities that offer opportunities to network, collaborate, mentor, or learn from other professionals in your field. You can also participate in events, challenges, competitions, or projects that can challenge you to use your skills in creative and practical ways. Some examples of active industrial design communities are Core77, IDSA, Behance, Dribbble, and Reddit.

5 Hire a coach or consultant

If you need more personalized and tailored guidance on how to improve your skills, you can consider hiring a coach or consultant who can help you with your specific goals and challenges. A coach or consultant can provide you with expert advice, feedback, resources, and support that can help you overcome your skill gaps and boost your confidence and performance. You can find coaches or consultants who specialize in industrial design or related fields through online platforms, referrals, or your network. You can also look for testimonials, reviews, or portfolios to ensure that they are qualified and experienced.