Margit Haslauer, art director, graphic designer and illustrator.

Published by Leonardo Calcagno

Who are you :

I am an Austrian Art Director, Graphic Designer and Illustrator.

Your current job :

I am Art Director and head of the graphic design department at CutCut Österreich GmbH in Salzburg, Austria. The company is specialized in water jet cutting, metal working, electroplating and laser engraving/laser cutting. My challenge is the balance between the daily business of production line and advancement of our corporate identity. I love to test my design with new material. There are often unexpected and beautiful results. There is nothing better than to hold your custom-made stuff in your own hands.

In which city are you located?

Seeham by lake Obertrum near the city of Salzburg, Austria.

A word to define what kind of worker you are :

I’m a perfectionist. I like to be well organized so I can free my mind for ideas and important stuff.

What tools are essential to your life (app, software, etc..)

Besides the usual digital tools, I prefer to learn and experience with all the senses. A little sketch and preselection of material I’d like to use are my first steps of ideation.

What does your office space look like?

Small but nice.

What kind of music do you listen to when you are working?

Depends on my mood and kind of work. (Kings of Leon and Mumford and Sons are always on my list.)

Do you have a way to organize your day to maximize your work?

As a working mother, it is “essential for survival” to be well organized. Before sleeping I think about the most important things to do. My subconsciousness works very well during the night.

What tips would you give to improve productivity?

Keep going when you get the flow but take a break and step backward when it stacks. I often talk with people who are not of my business to get a new perception. The different kind of thinking can really help to improve your work and productivity.

You’re better than your colleagues to :

I don’t care. Don’t block your mind by comparing each other.

What is the best advice anyone has given you?

Don’t be fearless, but fearless!

What is your best tip for saving time?

Improve your emotional intelligence. If you know yourself and your counterpart you can find the shortest way to receive a satisfying result for both sides.