How to Become a Graphic Designer

Graphic designers are responsible for creating notable product logos and/or packaging designs that will catch the public's eye and increase a company's sales. To be successful, designers must also possess excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to sell their ideas to executives.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Online Career Search
• Drawing Supplies
• College Catalogs And Applications
• Portfolios
• Art And Graphics Software

1. Take drawing courses while you're in high school.

2. Be prepared to receive a college degree in fine arts or advertising with concentrations in graphic art and computer graphics. Although it's sometimes possible to work as a graphic designer without having a degree, much of your competition now graduates from college.

3. Visit the National Association of Schools of Art and Design Web site (nasad.arts-accredit.org) to compare the offerings of schools in which you have an interest. Make certain they offer training in current graphics-related computer technology and that their electives include business and finance courses.

4. Contact your top school choices to see if they require samples of your artwork along with an application. Be prepared for a possible interview.

5. Get an internship in the design department of a company near your college. It will look good on your resume, and you might make valuable career contacts.

6. Do freelance work whenever you can so that you will have a solid portfolio to show prospective employers when you graduate.

7. Pay attention to packaging designs and advertising trends in all forms of media.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to contact employers for interviews, even if they have not posted classified ads.
• Make certain your portfolio showcases only your best work.
• This is a career in which about 1/3 of the individuals are self-employed. You may need to be constantly on the lookout for your next job, especially during the early years.
• Expect to work long hours when a project is nearing its deadline.

[animo001]

on 11/2/2008 does anyone know of the software that Graphic Designers use? I went to school for Business/Marketing and I am a self taught Graphic Designer. I have been using Photoshop to make logos, flyers and business cards.

[phoenixflame]

on 10/22/2008 y not to use times new romans.??
i my self want to become an aspiring graphic designer.
and need a plan . this is my life long goal and need help . if you may . thanks [e-mail] msm add e-mail me

[yekin]

on 12/25/2006 I was wondering how a self tutorial would work out, for now i cannot attend any design schools or courses, i want to learn on my own but i need the basic steps... Can anyone help me out?

on 11/22/2005 If you're designing packaging or web pages, always remember that less is more. Stay away from distracting patterns and stick to soft images or solid colors for backgrounds. And NEVER use Times New Roman!

on 11/22/2005 This is a very competitive field. You have to constantly learn new software and be up to date on design trends. Most companies are not willing to train people right out of college, so teach yourself as much as you can. There is more to being a designer than sitting in front of the computer. Learn how to speak effectively and learn how PR and marketing affect design decisions.