A Graphic Designer will typically work with clients to understand their needs before creating design solutions. Graphic Design work can focus a variety of products and services including corporate communications, displays, advertisements, websites and magazines. Graphic Designers can be self-employed, employed within a business or work freelance and will often need strong pitching and interpersonal skills to compliment their creative flair for design. Here are some insights taken from graduates working in the field.
1. What do you do on a day-to-day basis?
‘I create ad campaigns for the off-air side of program promotion. I also put together presentations for creative ideas and create online assets for Channel 4’s associated social media sites, among other things. The day to day jobs vary.’
‘Working together with art directors and copywriters on how to visualise their concepts. Overseen daily by creative directors.’
‘I receive design briefs from the studio manager, complete briefs within due date or ASAP. Pass completed briefs to Quality Control to check all information is correct. I then get the briefs signed off by the necessary person, ready to send the artwork files to the factories.’
2. What are the best and worst things about working in graphic design?
‘Working for a wide range of exciting clients. Working for some less exciting clients who allow less creative freedom.’
‘I really enjoy the varied work and the different projects that I’m involved in. They are all challenging and I get to work with new people regularly. The social side is fantastic and there is a friendly culture which makes it a good working environment.’
‘I get to be creative! And a design studio is usually a fun place to work, with nice people. And I get to wear jeans and trainers!’
3. What are the average working hours?
9am – 6pm
4. What is the average salary?
£21,000 – £23,000
5. Do you have any interview tips?
‘Personality is important, so try and be calm and relax in interviews!’
‘Make yourself standout!! Put effort into creating a CV/portfolio by using design elements that represent somthing about your personality. Be enthusiastic, confident and show a large amount of interest in the available position.’
‘Have a portfolio with a wide varied range of work. Make sure you only have work in your portfolio that you are proud to show off.’
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