Why Full-Time Creative Jobs Are Scarce in the AI Era - and My Solution

The job market today feels a lot like trying to find your car in a crowded parking lot - except every car looks the same, the lot keeps expanding, and someone just invented self-driving cars that don’t even need you anymore. In the world of creative jobs, design, and marketing, it’s not just humans we’re competing with anymore. AI, DIY tools, and automation are shaking things up, and let’s face it: they’re cheaper, faster, and sometimes too good at their job. But as I’ve learned, cheaper doesn’t always mean better, and rejection doesn’t mean the end.

The AI and Automation Tsunami

The creative industry has always been competitive, but now it feels like the rug has been pulled out from under us. AI tools can write blog posts, design logos, and even whip up marketing campaigns in minutes. Platforms like Canva and Wix give businesses the ability to "DIY" their branding without hiring a designer. Meanwhile, automation software handles repetitive tasks that used to keep whole teams employed.

While these tools are great for efficiency, they’ve also commoditized creative work. The result? Many companies are slashing budgets for full-time roles, opting for cheaper freelance options or entirely automated solutions. It’s like trying to compete with a vending machine when you’re a chef - sure, the machine’s cheaper and faster, but the quality? Let’s just say you’ll never find a five-star meal behind that glass.

My Journey Through the Job Market Maze

After decades of working for large corporations, I found myself on the outside looking in. With my experience, I thought finding a new full-time role would be straightforward. I polished my resume, wrote countless cover letters, and clicked "Apply" on every job posting that seemed remotely aligned with my skills. And I mean every job posting.

Three years later, after applying to at least 1,000 positions, the results were disheartening: two live interviews. That’s a 0.2% success rate. I wish I were exaggerating!

At first, I wondered if it was me. Was my portfolio not strong enough? Did I lack the right keywords in my resume? Was my work experience suddenly irrelevant? But as I spoke with other creatives, I realized this struggle wasn’t unique - it was the new normal. The creative job market had shifted, and I needed to shift with it.

Turning Rejection Into Opportunity

Instead of wallowing in the constant “Thanks, but no thanks” emails, I decided to take control. If full-time roles weren’t opening their doors, I’d build my own. That’s how Redideo Studio came to life - a creative agency where I could channel my skills, passion, and experience into projects that truly matter.

Running my own business isn’t easy. It’s like being the captain of a ship: thrilling when the wind’s at your back, but terrifying when the seas get rough. Still, it gave me a chance to do what I love while only waiting on the client's approval. It also reminded me why cheap solutions aren’t always the best. Companies might save money with DIY tools and AI, but they miss out on the depth, nuance, and emotional connection that come from working with real creatives.

Advice for Fellow Creatives

If you’re struggling to land a full-time role in this chaotic job market, know you’re not alone. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way:

• Play to Your Strengths: Embrace what makes your work unique. Whether it’s your storytelling, design sensibility, or ability to connect with clients, focus on what sets you apart from AI and automation.
• Embrace AI and Use It to Your Advantage: Instead of seeing AI as a competitor, view it as a tool to enhance your work. Use AI to streamline repetitive tasks, experiment with new creative ideas, and improve efficiency. Understanding how to collaborate with AI can set you apart in a tech-driven market.
• Think Beyond the 9-to-5: If traditional roles aren’t biting, consider freelancing, contracting, or building your own brand. It’s scary at first, but it gives you the freedom to create on your terms.
• Build a Network, Not Just a Resume: Many opportunities come from connections, not job boards. Attend events, networking groups, join communities, and don’t hesitate to reach out to people in your field.
• Quality Over Quantity: When you’re applying for roles, focus on crafting thoughtful applications for jobs that truly excite you. A scattershot approach can feel demoralizing when rejections pile up.
• Don’t Underestimate Yourself: You’re more than a resume. Your creativity, vision, and personality bring value that no algorithm can replicate.

Why Your Work Matters

At the end of the day, businesses need more than “good enough” solutions. They need work that stands out, tells a story, and resonates with their audience. That’s where we, as creatives, shine. So, while the parking lot of the job market may feel overwhelming, remember this: the car you’re looking for might not exist yet. You might have to build it yourself, just like I did with Redideo Studio.

If you’re curious about what I’ve created or want to see how we can collaborate, feel free to explore Redideo Studio. Together, we can prove that creativity is still invaluable - no matter how much the robots try to take over.