How to become a Graphic Designer

How to become a Graphic Designer Always being told that doodling at work won’t get the job done? Try telling that to a Graphic Designer…Graphic Designers create and develop visual concepts. This could range from producing artwork or marketing brochures, through to helping with company logos and website design. Wherever there’s a brand in desperate need of some creative flair, a Graphic Designer is never far behind.Typical duties for a Graphic Designer could include:Gathering a creative brief from a client, stating the projects objectivesComing up with concepts to help meet those demandsUsing a range of different mediums (sketches, photos, wireframes, digital designs) to bring their ideas to lifeMaking tweaks and amendments to designs based on client recommendationsObjectivity, and the ability to see the ‘big picture’Present the final versions back to the clients for business approvalIs it right for me?To become a Graphic Designer, it almost goes without saying that you’ll need a good level of creativity. You’ll need to be able to come up with ideas for a wide range of different projects, so if you often find inspiration lacking this may not be the job for you.However, contrary to popular belief, excellent drawing skills are not necessarily essential, and your ideas should not be limited to your skillset. Many Graphic Designers rely on digital design techniques to help get their job done, and may only use sketchpads to help develop rough concepts.A complete aversion to Comic Sans preferred, but not essential for this role.A good eye for colour and formVisual thinking skillsProblem solving skillsAdaptability, especially when shaping your ideas to meet client demandsExcellent attention to detail sCareer Progression Junior Graphic DesignerUp to 20,000 Graphic DesignerUp to 30,000 Head Of DesignUp to 40,000What's it really like? I've worked in design for around five years, and I honestly can’t imagine doing anything else. Basically, this job is all about making things look good. C oming up with creative ideas can be tough, and your designs won’t always work, but it’s a great feeling to see something you've made finally go into production. I've helped design websites, marketing brochures, and even album covers since I started, and I now work freelance from home for a range of different companies. If you’re obsessed with photography, typography, and design done properly, you can’t go wrong as a Graphic Designer. Get qualifiedMost Graphic Design roles will require a degree. However, a good portfolio of your designs and some experience using specific design-based programs (Photoshop, for example) may be enough to help you find an entry level role.