How to get a Graphic Design job

Graphic Design is one of those industries you always hear people talking about but it is also one that seems a million miles away to some people. If you want to get a graphic design job there is hope for you, but there is a lot of work and preparation along the way. Here are some handy tips to help you get into this field

1. Get the right qualifications. Graphic design is not the sort of job that you will be able to move sideways into. You need to have all of the correct qualifications and this generally means a degree in graphic design. There are other courses but if you can land yourself this degree it will pave the way much more easily than some other lesser qualification.

2. Understand your tools. These days, graphic design in busy offices is done on computers nine times out of ten. For that reason, you will need to get comfortable with the specific computer programs that are used in the industry. Try to get to grips with Adobe Indesign, Quark Xpress, Microsoft Publisher, and Corel Draw. Different graphic design companies will use different programs but if you get to the stage where you are able to use all of them you open yourself up to potentially more job opportunities.

3. Learn about the local companies. The chances are you are going to want to find work in your vicinity, and to do this you really need to know about the people you are going to be applying to. Try to have a look around online to find any previous work by the design companies you plan to target, and try to get a feel for their general style of work. Everyone of course wants to get creative in this line of work, but you will have to be able to do this within the parameters of the company that you end up working for.

4. Drop your resume in by hand. On the whole, Graphic Design companies are a friendly bunch and most places will welcome you walking in off the street to hand them your resume. It is a great chance for you to see the place in action, and if you get asked back for interview you will already have an idea of the place.

5. Have a portfolio. You should have examples of your work from your time of study, and this should be brought with you for your interview. Be ready to share and explain your work, including the thought behind the work.

Don’t be afraid to be creative, but it is most important to try to fall into line with whoever you are applying to. Good luck finding that job, and remember to stick to the advice laid out above.