What are the Options for a Graphic Design Career - CareerAlley

What are the Options for a Graphic Design Career - CareerAlley We may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners. Training in graphic design can lead to a wide range of different jobs. Those that have experience in producing commercial illustrations, as well as in working with computer design and other software, can form part of online and digital teams, and can act as contributors to branding agencies. At the same time, graphic designers can get profitable employment in publishing and illustration, while exploring the opportunities presented by television work and freelancing. Design jobs consequently offer a range of possibilities for those willing to extend their training and specialist skills into a particular role. Computer and Web Design Entry level design work for computer and web companies are generally expected to be able to produce basic animation and other forms of design, and to contribute a strong knowledge of HTML and coding. Most computer based design works around software and the ability to create work that can be used to enhance the overall look and style of a site, as well as specific pages. Freelance design work might also extend here to producing designs and illustrations for apps and smartphone games. Branding Agencies Many graphic designers find work at advertising agencies, where they contribute to different campaigns. The role of a graphic designer might include everything from helping to produce striking logos, and typography for clients. A graphic designer is typically expected to contribute to a number of different jobs within an agency, and is also expected to respond to client and consumer feedback to update and experiment with different designs for products and advertising campaigns. Publishing and Illustration A graphic designer can play an important role in a publishing company, where they can focus on magazine and newspaper layout, whereby they help to distinguish graphical parts of a paper and online site. Computer aided and hand drawn design can be used to develop cartoons, logos and typefaces, as well as background illustration. Publishing work can also include designing book covers, and working as a prepress technician responsible for checking the work of others for any significant design flaws. Television Work The value of graphic designers for television work comes through their contribution to broadcasting, satellite, and cable channel branding designs, as well as interstitials and related media campaigns. Working in television means being able to use computer software, as well as understanding motion graphics, animation, and the importance of coordinating different design elements to meet difficult deadlines. Freelancing A large number of graphic designers opt to seek self employment as freelancers, where they lend their work to different companies. This is often the best option when you start your career, and can help you to build up a strong portfolio to present to potential employers in the future. Some of the drawbacks of being a freelance designer do, however, include job insecurity, and the potential to work a lot of hours to make your career worthwhile. In many cases, though, freelancing can mean being able to better control your time and the kind of projects that you want to work on. more Going Freelance Bio:Patrick Hegarty is an experienced recruiter, who likes to share his experiences with a growing community of followers and recommends Brand Republic for marketing jobs. This is a Guest post. If you would like to submit a guest post to CareerAlley, please follow these guest post guidelines. Good luck in your search. Visit me on Facebook What's next? Ready to take action? Choose the right tools to help you build your career. Looking for related topics? Find out how to find the opportunities that help you grow your best career. Subscribe and make meaningful progress on your career. It’s about time you focused on your career. Get Educated Contact Us Advertise Copyright 2020 CareerAlley. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy + Disclosure home popular resources subscribe search