Graphic Designer Job Description

Graphic Design Necessary Skills

Color theory, drawing, and a sense of composition. I think a college or a vocational program just gives you the opportunities and the teachers to help you learn how to do that and to have the opportunity to practice it.

How to Start in This Role

To get into this role, I would say have a strong portfolio. Whether the portfolio is actual client work or work that you've created on your own, like case studies or made-up brands, having design examples is key. It’s important for whoever's looking at your book—whatever prospective employer that might be—to see your design sense, your skill level, and what you excel at.

Portfolio Tio

One thing I wish I’d done more in my own portfolio is include numbers. For example, showing how an ad got a certain number of views or how a social post received a particular amount of interaction. Those numbers really tell the story people want to see. It’s not just about making great visuals but demonstrating performance.

Pros and Cons

Working professionally as an artist is a huge benefit. Some cons, however, include understanding that the work is for a client, which means it won’t always be what you personally envision. I feel privileged to have a full-time career as a designer. Salary varies based on location and the company. Tech companies, for example, often have bigger budgets compared to smaller ones.

Graphic Designer Salary

As a graphic designer, you can expect a wide range of salaries—anywhere from $50K to $70K, depending on the market. I started as an intern at a magazine, learned on the job, and then became a graphic designer. From there, I moved up to junior art director, art director, senior art director, and now associate creative director. Perhaps a creative director role is next.

Career Advice

The biggest piece of advice: don’t stay in one job too long. When opportunities arise, move around for both creative and financial growth. They say the best way to get a raise is to get a new job.

For inspiration, I need to get out and see things. It’s essential to put myself in a place to be inspired so I can do my best creative work. It’s easy to check the box and fulfill the job, but true creatives want to feel creatively fulfilled. You don’t want to end up unsatisfied with the work you’re doing.