I've been a production manager for a weekly newspaper for the past five years. I have also been a freelance graphic designer for the past nine years. I am currently in the process of making a career shift, where I will be going back to school this coming January at Parsons School of Design (NYC) for an accelerated degree in graphic design.

At the same time, I am planning on leaving my current job, and would like to find a position as a highly-experienced production artist, as I have 17 years under my belt, both traditionally and digitally. I've been a manager for over five years and have no interest in managing any longer. All I want to do is get the work, do it, and go home at the end of the day…end of story. I plan to hold this position while attending school, then move on to a design position upon graduating.

My question to you all is the following: What would be the most important thing to present to a prospective employer…my resume with all my experience, skills and accomplishments listed, or a portfolio containing all my production work? In your opinion, which of these would hold more weight?

Any suggestions or recommendations would be most welcome. Thanks in advance!


Bill