Job Duties of a Graphic Designer

The job duties of a graphic designer can be a very diverse, making graphic design an interesting and rewarding career choice. Job opportunities for graphic designers are available in virtually any industry that requires visual communications. The opportunity to work with clients in a business situation while using specific computer skills make this career choice attractive to many.

Function

The job duties of a graphic designer encompass computer graphics and design, desktop publishing and even website projects. Job duties also include meeting with clients to determine projects goals like creating illustrations, logos, brochures, graphics for Web pages, signage and many other forms of visual communication (see Resources).

Skills

The job duties of a graphic designer require experience with various page layout, illustration, photograph and website development software packages, as well as an understanding of design principles that promote effective marketing. Good presentation and communication skills are also helpful (see Resources).

Significance

The job duties of a graphic designer can greatly enhance the success of marketing and communication tools like brochures and websites by making them more attractive to the potential audience, highlighting the most important information through good design techniques, and communicating the appropriate tone or feeling of the company or organization presenting the material.

Types

Graphic designers can work in a variety of fields, including advertising, marketing, website development, product development, architecture and interior design. Corporations, government agencies and non-profit organizations in virtually every industry use the skills of graphic designers, so job opportunities are plentiful.

Misconceptions

One common misconception about the job duties of a graphic designer is that they involve creating "art." However, the goal of most graphic design projects is communication. Artwork and design considerations are put to use to enhance the desired marketing message.

Resources

• Design Basics Used by Graphic Designers
• Example Design Skills Recommended for Tri-Fold Brochures
• Example Design Skills Recommended for Newspaper Ads