Unique Jobs in Graphic Design

If you're a graphic designer trying to drum up business with local advertisers, think bigger. Design jobs are available in just about every city in industries you've probably never considered.

Start your search by beefing up your portfolio and forging a presence online. Without links to fresh and dynamic work, you'll be hard pressed to entice new clients. Next, brainstorm on how your services could benefit industries in your area.

Theater - Despite the ups and downs of the economy, theater has always been a stronghold of the arts. Even Shakespeare needed ways to promote his plays and entice customers. To get your feet wet in the industry, start by designing playbills, posters, CD covers of the show's soundtrack, souvenir books, and keepsakes for local and regional theater companies. Merchandise is a big seller at shows and companies rely on it to turn a profit. And because theater groups are always touring and producing new shows, there's opportunity for continuous work.

Parks - City parks need design for free maps, literature, signage, directions, and educational programs. Because the government funds most local parks, they're not going to close down anytime soon. And when the economy is down, its more likely parks will offer free programs and attract locals looking for a frugal day out. You might find yourself the resident designer on contract.

Bars - Pubs and bars are often overlooked as just a watering hole. But Methane Studios in Atlanta, GA capitalized on the music industry and creates scores of posters for gigs at both national and local bars. The Earl, a local pub in East Atlanta that regularly features musicians, is one of their biggest clients. I visited one of Methane's poster sales at The Earl and found myself waiting 15-minutes just to get a glimpse of the posters they were selling.

Gyms - While it's true that gyms, like any business, need art to advertise specials and events, there's more opportunities there than you might think. The YMCA offers more than just exercise, but educational programs. You could pitch an idea to teach design. Or, think further and post your well-designed flyers advertising your services around the gym. You'll have a captive audience trying to blow off steam and thinking their way through a work crisis. You might just be the answer they're looking for.

Churches - Nashville seems to house a church on every street corner that's full of local musicians and Sunday concerts. With private funding direct from their congregation, churches are likely to have money to promote such services. After all, their concerts and events help bring in extra revenue for their church. It's a win-win situation for everyone. And with weekly service and year-round events, you should find repeat clients.

Lawns - Businesses offer lawn painting services with emblems of high school logos, sports emblems, special messages, and more. Look into building lawn stencils and available turf paint. You could make up to $100 an hour for some simple and unique work.

There's an endless supply of opportunity if you can identify unique and often overlooked industries that might need your graphic design services. Open the phonebook, go online, or start driving through the area to brainstorm on new clients.