In this industry, it’s a rather high maintenance ordeal. Firstly, The Door must always be addressed as The Door. Unless The Door requires slightly less formality, in which case Mr. or Ms. Door will do. Note, The Door does not approve of casual greetings. When in doubt, personalize with well-thought, well-crafted, well-researched words to make a strong first impression on Mr.or Ms. Door. Flattery can be suffocating; a subtle knowledgeable nod will do.
Once we’ve mastered that tricky introductory phrasing, we must ensure that Mr. Door is most certainly not Ms. Door, or Dooor, or Do’Or. Grammar and spelling and titles are important for designers to master, in case you haven’t heard over and over and over again.
Don’t mention So-and-so to The Door. If introductions are required, the connection should be present to ease communication and acknowledge the existing relationships.
Be aggressive with The Door. Don’t walk away and expect It to open up all on its own. If you can’t get your foot in the first time, jiggle the knob (follow up). If The Door is locked it’s never opening, but sometimes It just has a sticky handle.
Be able to talk clearly and concisely to The Door about why It should open for you. Doors enjoy intelligent conversation and stunning imagery. If The Door has something in common with your work, offer a link.
Avoid IrRiTaTiNg, wrong, distasteful, disturbing or otherwise offensive behavior in front of The Door. Don’t be vague, or alternatively “padded.” Letters of recommendation are recommended, but only from relevant sources.
Most importantly of all, if The Door opens, make sure it’s The Door you want to stick your foot through. The best opportunities may take time to discover, so hasty decisions are best avoided. Find The Door you can’t help but open.
“Foot” refers to résumé and “The Door” as potential employer, in reaction to AIGA’s Ten Common Mistakes in Résumés and Cover Letters, by Ms. Petrula Vrontikis (a Door)
