Today we spent some time thinking about studio etiquette and the habits we’re encouraged to adopt as aspiring designers. It’s interesting because on paper, being pleasant, on time and tidy sounds basic, almost obvious, but in practice it forms the foundation of a good working environment. I’ve realised the studio isn’t just a place to produce work, it’s where you build your professional persona without even realising it. Being enthusiastic, respecting people's space, staying organised, it all adds up. Even something as simple as offering someone a tea or coffee creates this subtle, positive culture.
I used to think studios were all chaos and creative flair, but it turns out the calm, considerate energy matters even more. And honestly, asking questions has become one of the most valuable habits, it feels better to admit you don’t know something than pretend you do and miss out on learning.
Meetings are another thing that felt very corporate at first but I’m starting to appreciate them more. Showing up on time, being prepared, and actually contributing when it feels right, it's something I’m still getting used to. I want to avoid being that person that just sits there and zones out because it’s so obvious and does no one any good. I think its about trying to find a balance between being natural and being professional, contributing without talking for the sake of talking. Body language is a funny one too, because sometimes it’s easy to forget how much it communicates. Engagement goes beyond just listening, it's actively being in the room, even if you're not speaking for most of it. I think the shift here is seeing meetings not as obligations but as opportunities to show interest, curiosity and confidence.
We also touched on email etiquette and honestly, I didn’t realise how much goes into a single email. Things like making sure your subject line is meaningful, keeping the content short and clear, and signing off professionally. I’m guilty of overthinking the tone sometimes, wanting to sound friendly but not too informal. “Hi” over “Hey” makes sense, and I’m definitely trying to avoid essays disguised as emails. I like the idea of breaking things up, using emotional language where appropriate, and just being considerate of the reader. Also, checking attachments, a mistake I have absolutely made before. It’s funny how email feels old school until you realise it’s still one of the main ways we present ourselves professionally.
The biggest takeaway from all of this though is one simple idea: watch and learn. Half of being a designer at this stage feels like studying the room as much as studying the tools. Paying attention to how people speak, work, carry themselves, it’s all part of the learning curve. I’m becoming more aware that design isn't just the work you produce, it's how you show up in every space. And getting comfortable being uncomfortable really resonated. There’s a lot of growth in moments where you feel slightly out of your depth, and I’m kind of starting to enjoy that feeling. It means I’m progressing, even if it's quietly.
<aside> 💡
All of this feels more lifestyle than skill-based, but maybe that’s the point. These small habits are sort of shaping me into the designer I want to become, not just the one I am right now. There’s a professionalism to all of it that honestly makes me feel more prepared for placement and for working in real creative environments. The idea that design isn’t just talent but behaviour, attitude and presence is starting to sink in. I can see how being organised, respectful, and engaged will set me apart as much as my portfolio will. It feels like I’m piecing together not just skills but a way of navigating this industry, one small moment at a time.
</aside>