How You Can Obtain a Job in Graphic Design

A graphic designer's job is to create visually attractive solutions that can effectively convey information. If we look around, we find the creative output of graphic designers everywhere, from newspapers to television to the Internet. Graduates of graphic design schools have the ability to create and execute design concepts that encapsulate information in a visually attractive manner. Their responsibilities include identifying the requirements of clients, evaluating the target audience of clients, researching in detail the subject matter, sourcing of images and typefaces, preparing sketches by selecting fonts, colors, shapes, images, text, sounds, and other visual elements, and using computer software such as Adobe Photoshop, and QuarkXPress. Graphic design is used extensively in the preparation of logos, posters, brochures, television and print advertisements, magazines, business cards, presentations and electronic marketing material.

In order to become a graphic designer, you must possess creativity, tenacity and flexibility. You really should have a flair for art and design. You must also be ready to work long hours, meet tight deadlines and be flexible so that you can adapt to the changing needs of clients. If you want to shine as a graphic designer, you should have a broad knowledge base and familiarity with the recent trends in your field.

You must choose a suitable graphic design school that will provide you with the necessary education and training needed to build your career. Most graphic design schools offer lessons on the principles of design, understanding of color and composition, typography, sketching, and art. Even as graphic design training continues, you will learn problem solving techniques useful for the business world. In addition, classes on computerized design such as electronic imaging and design software will equip you with the required technological expertise. Graphic design schools such as universities and colleges typically offer a 4-year program that culminates in a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. You can additionally enroll in a 2 or 3-year associate graphic design degree program which prepares you for technical positions or to be eligible for working as assistants to designers. After completing the degree, you will undergo training on the job. Graphic design school graduates usually need 1-3 years of training before attaining higher positions. You should only choose a school that is properly accredited.

Once you complete your graphic design training or a graphic design degree, you will have a number of career options that include working at advertising agencies, publishing houses, design studios, and corporate marketing and communications departments. A qualified graphic designer can become a creative director or art director, multimedia designer, web designer, flash designer, Photoshop artist, logo designer, layout artist, illustrator, prepress technician and so many other things. Most graphic designers work as salaried employees, with only 30% of them being self-employed.

In 2004, the median yearly income for graphic designers was $38,030. They are expected to earn about $30,000 for entry-level jobs. While staff-level designers can earn $42,500 and senior designers can earn $56,000 annually. Those with ownership or partnership in firms can make nearly $100,000 per year. With the job market looking promising as a result of growing demand in media and entertainment, a boom time now awaits qualified graphic designers.