Graphic design is a career that is perfect for creative types that don’t want to live like starving artists. It is tailor-made for those that are artistic and have an eye for what makes things look good. This opens the door to get a job doing marketing materials in advertising firms, web design, and other jobs that require graphic images.
Getting a job as a graphic designer is a little more complicated in 2022 than it used to be but it isn’t difficult. If you are just learning and only know how to edit a transparent background but want to get a job as a graphic designer then it’s important to know what the road ahead looks like. In this article, we will go over several things to know about the graphic design job market.
Networking is crucial
In just about any industry it is beneficial to have a network for support throughout your career. However, in graphic design, it is absolutely essential. The problem with graphic design jobs is that many of the new jobs are hidden. They have not advertised anywhere since many hiring managers want somebody that is recommended.
This means that you are going to have to put the word out to your network of friends and associates to let them know that you’re in the job market. Many of them will let you know if there is a position open in their company.
Depending on job listings online or on the company’s website is not going to get you far. It is much better to get a recommendation.
Start out by freelancing
Experience is essential when it comes to getting jobs. The issue is that it is hard to get a job without experience and to get the experience you need a job. The way around this is to freelance so you have some projects under your belt to show a prospective employer. You’ll surely be underpaid in the beginning but as time goes on you will be able to make decent money and have a portfolio to show for it.
Once you have some experience then you can go job hunting and use your portfolio to show that you are capable of getting the work done. There are some designers that will work as freelancers to get experience but will often stick with that as a career instead of working for a company. It is possible to make more money as a freelancer and to have a lot more flexibility in the process.
Always be improving
Being a graphic designer is equal parts creativity and technical knowledge. Since technology is always changing, it is important to stay up on the latest tech. Being creative is like a muscle. You should always be training so you have the chops that employers are looking for.
Make sure to always be a perpetual learner so you can be at the peak of your creativity and technical knowledge.