What You Need to Know About Becoming a Graphic Designer

All kinds of visual communications fall under the umbrella of graphic design. Professionals in the field develop advertising, entertainment, and news features in all kinds of formats used around the globe. Whether through print publications, digital broadcast media, social platforms, or web browsers, graphic designers help get powerful messages across in memorable ways.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected seven percent job growth for graphic designers from 2012-2022. This modest increase is mostly due to decreasing demand in the world of print media. For graphic designers in computer systems and related services, a much stronger 35 percent increase is projected.

When it comes to salaries, graphic designers earned a national median wage of $45,900 as of 2014. Designers with the highest salaries are typically those who have advanced training or work for custom design firms.

An In-Depth Look at Graphic Design

Graphic designers work to relay specific messages through images. They try to elicit emotions and prompt actions based on their clients’ objectives. Graphic designers are often asked to create branding materials or logos that stick with consumers and communicate a clear company identity in the process.

Some of the most common specialty areas for graphic designers are:

• Typography
• Web design
• Desktop publishing
• Interface and user experience design
• Branding and advertising
• Product packaging

The Key Steps to Becoming a Graphic Designer

Starting early is a good idea when it comes to developing any key career skills. It’s especially important in the world of graphic design because you have to develop solid practical abilities on which to add new theories and concepts. Sharpening design skills in high school is a great way to start on the path to a successful career as a graphic designer. Taking art classes and helping with the school newspaper are two good places to begin.

Obviously, earning a degree in graphic design is another vital step toward becoming a successful professional in the field. A bachelor’s degree is the best option here, and there are many schools that offer online programs. Coursework will cover a variety of topics, including studio art, design principles, advertising, web design, and commercial graphics. If a degree program offers an internship with a design firm, so much the better.

A compelling portfolio is crucial for every aspiring graphic designer. Everything from print ads and animation demos to website graphics might be included in these portfolios. If you don’t have much professional work to include, providing your best design samples is the way to go. Focusing on quality over quantity in a portfolio isn’t unusual for graphic designers who are just starting their careers.

Essential Attributes for Graphic Design Success

Sharp analytical skills are vital for graphic designers, but they must be complemented by artistic talent. Communication abilities are also very important, both for getting messages across on behalf of clients and for collaborating with other members of a design team. Time management skills are essential as well, because graphic designers often have to work on multiple projects at the same time.