Graphic design is a creative and rewarding career that demands an up-to-date knowledge of industry software and a professional approach to issues. Part of the reason graphic design career is in high demand is because there are many specializations linked to the profession. According to Rasmussen, the main graphic design specialties include: User Interface (UI) design, web design, User Experience (UX) design, Information Architecture and animation and motion graphics.
Although a number of graphic designers are self-taught, the best strategy to kick-start a successful career is obtaining a degree in design or related study. This assessment is supported by industry statistics showing employer’s preference for candidates with either Associate or Bachelor’s degree. Design candidates also need an internship experience and appropriate projects and work experience. The internship experience should be backed by professional references.
To effectively market their skills and experience, graphic designers also need a solid graphic design portfolio, featuring a variety of projects that stand out. Professionals looking to pursue a specific specialization should ensure the portfolio reflects their aspirations. Due to the nature of work, graphic designers can work virtually anywhere. Most professional service jobs are found in big cities and places with a high population. The graphic design jobs are broadly classified as follows:
• In-house jobs
• Freelance jobs
• Agency jobs
Salary
The salaries offered to graphic designers are largely dictated by the employment sector, skills and experience, work locality, and individual reputation. The salaries generally vary for cadres like junior graphic designers, middle-level graphic designers and freelancers. Research shows that professionals working for in-house design teams tend to earn more money compared to their counterparts. A recent SimplyHired report reveals the following salaries for graphic designers:
• Intern graphic designer – $25,800
• Junior graphic designer – $38,000
• Web designer – $50,000
• Instructional graphic designer – $57,000
• Senior graphic designer – $57,300
• User Experience (UX) designer – $86,700
Learning how to negotiate can help graphic designers improve the chances of getting a better pay package. The first step is figuring one’s worthiness. A graphic designer can perform a quick check of the job offerings and salaries offered to graphic designers locally. The job descriptions normally feature the kind of experience the employer is looking for and the expected salary. Some of the job and career sites to add to your checklist include Indeed and Glassdoor.
For graphic designers looking for online design gigs that pay on an hourly basis. It is highly advisable to negotiate for salary from a higher stand-point while maintaining some flexibility. It is also critical to be specific about the salary you want and ensure your portfolio is constantly improved. Graphic designers need to be specific about the salary they want to send a strong signal to employers that you have done extensive research and are aware of the market rate.
Graphic designers need to continually improve their portfolio as a strategy to market their brand. An online, graphic design portfolio can come in handy when showcasing talents and potential. If you are an established graphic designer, the online portfolio can help you attract more business and add projects that will further sell your brand. For in-house graphic designers, a good portfolio can also be used to negotiate better salaries and terms of service.
Graphic designers without a website can use the opportunity to find a website builder who offers compelling themes to showcase their graphic design works in the best possible way.
Graphic Design Champion
Advances in the field of graphic design have greatly revolutionized the industry and brought with it new design champions. Jeffrey English NJ is at the forefront of pushing the limits of graphic design. Jeffrey English NJ is riding on a 10 years’ experience that has endeared him to many as a detail-oriented designer with a knack for quality and timely completion. The New Jersey native owns and operates a leading state-of-the-art studio in Hoboken, New Jersey.
The studio is renowned for creating revolutionary branding concepts and marketing materials such as website templates, business logo and video advertisements. At the personal level, Jeffrey has a powerful artistic sense and has inculcated interpersonal skills in his work ethics. He sees great promise in new talents taking up graphic design careers. Besides the attractive salaries and flexible jobs, graphic designers enjoy freedom of expression and opportunity to work for reputable firms