How to Brand Yourself as a Graphic Designer

Graphic designers must be creative in how they brand themselves.

Branding yourself as a graphic designer is the first step to actually working as one. You'll have to let other people know about your career choice, and presenting yourself accordingly is vital. Since graphic designers are often freelance workers, branding yourself as a graphic designer is a way of selling yourself to potential employers. Effectively branding yourself can make the difference between a successful career and a failed one.

Instructions

1. Tell your friends and family you are now working as a graphic designer, and introduce yourself as such when meeting new people. Although this may be a simple step in branding yourself, it's also one of the most effective. People you know will be likely to give you work if they're looking for a graphic designer.

2. Build your portfolio. Graphic designers need to show samples of their design work in order to get jobs. You may wish to tailor your portfolio to the job you're applying for, but select a few solid pieces of work that will always stay in your portfolio. Make your portfolio into an interesting design piece itself. Be creative when you're putting it together to set yourself apart.

3. Set up a website. Use the website to introduce yourself and put a digital version of your portfolio up on the site. Make your contact information easily accessible on the site.

4. Create a business card. Include your name, contact information and job title, or your desired job title if you're looking for work. Once again, try to be creative and put together an unconventional card. For example, experiment with different shapes and designs.

5. Keep your work consistent. Once you have a worked at a few jobs, keeping your work consistent is one of the most important ways of establishing your brand. You want potential employers to know what to expect when they are hiring you.

Tips & Warnings

• Anything you can do to differentiate yourself from other people in your field will help establish your brand. Try to be original whenever possible.

References

• Garr Reynolds: Brand You
• Sessions College for Professional Design; DesignMentor Training; Building a Strong Design Portfolio