Carol Buettner

PRINCIPLE / CREATIVE DIRECTOR
at CAROL BUETTNER SELECT BRAND DESIGN
cbsbd.net
BFA in Communication Design, 1982
Westport, CT

What are you currently fascinated by and how is it feeding into your work? Social Media and New technology, website design – wordpress formats,

Who or what has been the biggest single influence on your way of thinking? My grandfather, a master craftsman in woodworking

What project or design problem have you faced (in the past or recently) that seemed to be a “failure” but was perhaps an extremely valuable learning experience? Beauty Company Design and Proposal for Diane Von Furstenberg – loved the design, but wanted our group to provide funding…things are not always what they seem…

While you were in school at Auburn, do you remember a specific graphic design project that challenged you the most? Mechanical drawing class

You are the principle of your own successful branding and consulting firm. How did working with high-end brands like Estee Lauder and John Frieda prepare you for starting your own firm? Estee Lauder in particular provided discipline, structure, time management- creating and making deadlines. John Frieda- communication, finding directing ,inspiring talented staff. 

“Always be looking at your surroundings, graphics, the world to be constantly developing a visual vocabulary. Listen, be humble and respectful of management.”

What advice would you give a young designer hoping to break into the branding and packaging segment of the design field? Always be looking at your surroundings, graphics, the world to be constantly developing a visual vocabulary. Listen, be humble and respectful of management.

Are there any rules or habits that help you run your business more efficiently? Time management is the key, set priorites and realistic goals.

Do you believe that it is harder for women to become successful in certain aspects of the design field? In my sectors of Lifestyle, beauty fragrance etc. it is not harder to be successful, just very difficult to balance family and career. 

Is there a difference between working in design with women or with men? Have you ever been treated differently because you are female? I have not found either of those to have affected me, however I do work in NYC .

Would you recommend some resources that young designers might find useful? (books, websites, podcasts, etc.) Michael Beirut  “how to use Graphic Design to sell things etc.) Wallpaper Magazine, www.marketingmentor.com  – Ilise Benun.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were in school? Trust yourself and that you do have great style and much to offer.

What should a young designer avoid doing when applying for jobs in the design field? Being sloppy, unorganized and have an attitude.