Post by Heather Olson

It’s my decade birthday week, gulp! A time to look back, and then ahead… • At 20 — An education in advertising design and journalism led to graphic design and art direction roles — in publishing and a design studio in Des Moines; then an ad agency, inhouse, and a marketing firm in Minneapolis. Heavy volunteering in the design community ensued. And marriage transpired…I designed the brochure he used as a sales tool! • At 30 — With my first layoff, I launched a solo design practice. A few years in, we had a son and twin daughters in quick succession. I worked a short time, then realized the necessity (and importance) of stepping out of business to raise three kiddos. • At 40 — My parent volunteerism led to project managing an inclusive school district + community mural. Then, thanks to industry connections, I returned to design…in a marketing capacity. Prospect research and lead generation for a large design firm became my modus operandi. • At 50 — As our kids moved into college and the workplace, my marketing role expanded to include employee recruitment; I knew how to spot creative talent. Mentoring emerging professionals became a joyful practice. And I earned the greatest of professional honors: the AIGA Fellow award. • At 60 — Following another layoff, a return to sole proprietorship seemed obvious. Soladay Olson | Connections for Creatives was born to help employers find talent, support job seekers in their search, and introduce entrepreneurs to potential clients. Along the way, I engaged one of my adult children as a PT co-worker who excels at talent searches. • At 70 (on 2/22) — I’m coming full circle. With the tight job market and fewer recruiting assignments > yes, I’d still love to partner if you have a need < I’m expanding volunteerism. I’ll keep mentoring creative professionals and coaching job seekers, as well as contributing to arts education and social issues, dabbling in collage…and first-time grandparenting! Don’t worry, you’ll continue to see my boots on the ground at professional events and commenting in social channels. And if you’re up for coffee or a walk-and-talk, let’s get it scheduled! Thank you — my clients, peers, and friends one and all — for decades of a satisfying creative career!