GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GRAPHIC DESIGNER
As a graphic designer, you’ll create eye-catching visuals for a variety of products and activities, such as:
? websites
? advertising
? books and magazines
? posters
? computer games
? product packaging
? exhibitions and displays
? corporate communications
? corporate identity, i.e. giving organisations a visual brand.
After agreeing a brief with the client, creative director or account manager you’ll develop appropriate creative ideas and concepts that meet the client’s objectives.
The work demands creative flair, up-to-date knowledge of industry software and a professional approach to time, costs and deadlines.
Responsibilities
As a graphic designer you’ll need to:
? meet clients or account managers to discuss the business objectives and requirements of the job
? estimate the time required to complete a job and provide quotes for clients
? develop design briefs that suit the client’s purpose
? think creatively to produce new ideas and concepts and develop interactive
design
? find innovative ways to redefine a design brief within time and cost constraints
? present finalised ideas and concepts to clients or account managers

? work with a range of media, including computer-aided design (CAD), and keep up to date with emerging technologies
? proofread to produce accurate and high-quality work
? demonstrate illustrative skills with rough sketches and work on layouts ready for
print
? commission illustrators and photographers
? work as part of a team with printers, copywriters, photographers, stylists,
illustrators, other designers, account executives, web developers and marketing specialists.
Qualifications
Relevant subjects for graphic design work include those that involve visual arts. In particular, a degree or HND in the following subjects may increase your chances:
? 3D design
? communication design
? film and television
? fine art
? graphic design
? illustration
? photography
? visual art.
Any design-based course will give you a good grounding and knowledge of design, art history and printing techniques.
It is important that you build up a strong portfolio of your work to show to potential employers. This will be highly valued alongside your qualifications and will showcase your talent and passion for the career. You should also try to familiarise yourself with relevant software programmes such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop, especially if these weren’t covered within your degree.
Some roles don’t require a degree or HND, as job offers may be based on the standard of portfolio work. However, progress without formal training is extremely difficult, and the vast majority of graphic designers have higher qualifications.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification isn’t needed, but pre-entry experience is essential.
Skills
Apart from technical and drawing skills, you’ll need to show:
? passion and enthusiasm for design, with a creative flair
? a flexible approach when working in a team
? excellent communication skills to interpret and negotiate briefs with clients
? good presentation skills and the confidence to explain and sell ideas to clients
and colleagues
? time management skills and the ability to cope with several projects at once
? accuracy and attention to detail when finalising designs
? being open to feedback and willing to make changes to your designs
? effective networking skills to build contacts.