Our company recently put an ad in the local paper seeking a graphic designer. I never expected to get such an overwhelming response! Perhaps you, or someone you know, have recently decided that you would like to enter the profession full–time. If you love doodling, picking colours, creating, and using computer programs, a career as a graphic designer might be just right for you.
You may wish to start off by taking a course. Graphic design courses range from a few months to a few years, so it is important to research the program prior to making a commitment. Most graphic design courses include classes in specific computer programs, portfolio development, and an internship. Many graphic designers are self taught. Taking this route involves a lot of commitment, hard work, and a true love of the industry. Whether you decide to take a course (which I would recommend) or want to try designing on your own, your goals will be as follows: Build a portfolio. Gain experience. Make money doing something you love.
Once you’ve determined your course (or non–course) of study, your first objective is to build a portfolio. Fill it with everything you’ve been involved in—and if that’s not much, then it is time to get involved. Offer to design logos and stationary for friends who have their own businesses. Design birthday cards or invitations for family events. Why not volunteer your services to a not–for–profit organization—it will allow you to gain some experience and make great potential contacts.
Be sure to keep samples of all of your work. If you don’t feel that your portfolio is extensive enough, there is nothing wrong with getting creative! Make up companies and develop ad campaigns for them. Find a logo for a company and present a “before and after” of how you would improve it. Including hand–drawn illustrations will show you that you are a competent visual artist. Draw, illustrate, and click your way to success!
Now that you’ve created your samples present them well. As Calvin (of Calvin and Hobbes) once said, “A clear plastic binder makes all the difference.” A portfolio case is like a well–chosen picture frame—it should highlight your work and help it to jump off the page. Frankly, shoving a few samples into a folder and trying to sell yourself on that will not work; professionalism is key to becoming a graphic design professional.
Ideally, you should develop both a digital and a hard copy of your portfolio. For your hard copy, purchase a black portfolio case to showcase your work. Your pride in presentation will illustrate your style, attention to detail, and workmanship. Print out high quality colour prints if you do not have actual print samples. Arrange your work tastefully.
Your digital portfolio can be on a website or simply on a CD. Ensure it is user friendly, and, once again, attractively presented. Both portfolios should remain well–maintained and up–to–date.
Armed with your stylish portfolio, it is now time to gain some more experience in the workforce. You may want to start by taking on non–remunerated internships; internships provide great experience, and you’re often hired at the end! Contact local print and graphic shops and they will likely be happy to take you on for a few weeks. It’s a help to them (not many entrepreneurs will say no to free labour) and it’s a great opportunity for you to further your skills and, of course, grow your portfolio.
Once you officially enter the workforce, you have two basic options: freelance or full–time. If you decide to freelance, it would be wise to take a course in running a small business, as you will be responsible for setting up your own business. Along with the freedom that many entrepreneurs enjoy, you will have to take control of your marketing, financing, accounting, and all other tasks relating to running a company. You may find that you love running your own business. Or you may find that you prefer to focus on what you love—designing—while letting someone else take care of the administrative details.
However you decide to work, you will have to sell yourself—either to clients or to employers. An honorable work ethic and a commitment to quality and creativity are both vital as you strive for success. As with most challenges, “it is our Attitude, not our Aptitude, that determines our Altitude!” Good luck!
Jasmine Brooks, Project Coordinator
MPR Communication
jbrooks@mprcommunication.com
