Hi guys. I’m looking for a role as a Graphic Designer. I don’t have a lot of first-hand experience. Where do you recommend I should start?
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- @Matthew Ellwood as per software…sadly the adobe creative suite is industry standard, the quicker and more efficient you can use it the better… it has a load of keyboard shortcuts as an example, learning these makes certain tasks much easier to manage. Also look into figma, there’s a free version I think.Lastly as per where or what you wanna do, you could look at what you enjoy doing/creating most? What satisfies your creative itch. Or what do you find tedious and boring… where are your strengths? The answer to these might influence a potential future.
- @Tom Graves-Cooper Thanks for all the useful information.I taught myself how to use Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop, back when it wasn't subscription based. Are they still the most useful tools to create?In regards to my future, that's a big question. I'm still figuring that out myself, all I know is that I love to create.I don't feel confident enough right now to go freelance, so ideally I'd like to be apart of a studio for the experience. See where it leads me
- @Matthew Ellwood hi Matt, so yeah you don’t need a fancy degree. I’ve been in the business with only an hnc for official qualification… it’s down to you, your skills , learning and creativity.As per projects and portfolio. If it’s light then create something that you wanna create… if it’s a made up brand or advertising campaign etc… be creative let yourself be imaginative.If you’re lacking some potential skills… there are a lot of tutorials on YouTube. Start to follow peeps that you admire and like the style of work. Don’t copy it, but let it influence and inspire you… ask yourself why it’s good or what they’ve done.Then practice, practice, practice. Some studios take on interns to develop your skills, or you can start to offer your services in a freelance capacity. Have you thought of what future you’d like for yourself?
- @Tom Graves-Cooper I’m currently building my portfolio here on Dots, i’ve uploaded a few small projects.I don’t know which area I’d like to specialise in, other than graphic design/illustration.I have a national diploma, not a Bachelor’s Degree, which I realise is preferred.I haven’t created any new projects in over 8 years, and I’m not professionally trained.So I’m wondering where do I really begin? Do I need the qualification? Or is it likely there are any companies out there willing to take me on in an early entry role, based on my current work?
- The dots team have delivered a great answer.But do you have a portfolio?Are you wanting to specialise in a specific area of design?Posting material and content across a variety of platforms constantly is always a good move. Consistency is key for that… which can be tough and challenging.Know yourself, where your strengths and weaknesses are, then self development and vulnerability is a great signal and attractive attribute.
- Hi Matthew,Thanks for posting your call-out! Here are our top tips to help you find work:1. Follow your favourite companies so you're the first to know when they post jobs and call-outs:https://the-dots.com/follow-pages2. Build your network by connecting with people you already know, and people you want to know! (fun fact: 50-80% of jobs are filled through networking):https://the-dots.com/account/connectionsOh, and your newsfeed is the place to discover all the best opportunities to network, find work and more:https://the-dots.com/feedWe hope that helps!The Dots
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