Graphic Designer Self Promotion Newspaper Template + Design Psychology & Strategy Guide

Years ago I created a self-promotional newspaper + personalized insert, mailed it to agencies, and within 4 months it generated over $36,000 in hired work (Read more here.)This digital download gives you the files, the strategy, and the psychology behind the process.

This download includes:

• The original Newspaper and Insert layout I used (InDesign file + PDFs)

• Annotated breakdown of the design decisions, strategic intent, why it worked and what I’d change if I did it again for every design decision (Annotations within InDesign file + PDF)

• A deep dive into the design behavior psychology that made this a success, as well as the vendor information used to produce the newspaper I used (PDF)

The goal isn’t necessarily for you to copy this newspaper exactly, it’s to understand why the structure works, and how to apply those ideas to your own self-promotion.

What’s Included

1) Editable InDesign Templates

• Promotional newspaper layout

• Personalized insert letter template

2) Annotated PDFs

The layouts with margin callouts explaining design decisions, strategic intent, why it worked and what I’d change if I did it again.

3) Design Strategy & Psychology Guide

A short document explaining the psychology behind the piece, and why it was successful. The sections cover:

• Pattern disruption

• Narrative sequencing

• Humanization in portfolios

• Physical vs digital self-promotion

Who This Is For

• Graphic designers

• Illustrators

• Lettering artists

• First job applicants

• Freelancers trying to get hired

Anyone looking for creative ways to promote themselves.

File Contents

• Annotated Newspaper Template (InDesign + PDF)

• Annotated Letter Insert Template (InDesign + PDF)

• Design Strategy & Psychology Guide (PDF)

File Requirements

• Adobe InDesign

Note: the PDFs can also be opened in any PDF-compatible program. InDesign is only required for individuals hoping to edit the InDesign file.