Stepping from the shadows.

For over 20 years, I have worked deep inside the world of non-disclosures. I was working with agencies and creative organizations as a shadow operative. Get in and get out — no public discussion of any involvement with the project. Essentially you're getting paid not to be seen or heard. Letting others or the collective take credit for your work.

I'm not bashing the business tactic, and it does pay well; however, when pursuing other employment, it can get a little bit tricky. Everyone wants to see your portfolio, but you want to avoid any legal ramifications and ruin any relationships. Even if you have a portfolio under lock and key, your creditability can suffer.

The secondary issue is that by the time the NDA expires, your work is severely dated and a poor example of actual skill level. Ultimately you find yourself in the same repeating conversation with each potential employer.

Referrals help reduce this pain, but I'm growing tired of these symptoms. I believe it's time to step out of the shadows and show people what I can do - this should be fun.