Just a rant really…

So sick of seeing graphic designer jobs advertised as ‘junior’ or ‘entry level’ and then stating they require X number of years’ experience and a list of essential skills a mile long!
Just seen one that says “looking for someone with 3-4 years’ experience.”
My question is would you still be ‘junior’ with that much experience? If so, I don’t have much chance! 😥

Replies2

  • Junior, senior, mid-weight... Art Director... mid-weight looking to make the jump...

    These are all words... and while they're also positions, I accept that they exist and should be followed in a formal sense.

    I fully understand your frustration Anna, and I kinda agree with your statement on ''experience'', unfortunately... each organisation has a different view of what roles / levels mean and some don't / can't guide you from one to the next because while there is a formal ask, there isn't a formal procedure for progression, thus there is not a formal / ''benchmarked'' entry level standard.

    'A lot of hiring managers' don't understand design so remember your not always being hired by designers or creatives even though it's for a creative role. They just want someone to come in on the salary they're offering and do the work, and kinda... know it all.

    So... ok, what does that mean in reality?

    You, them, us, we, who are looking or sharing opportunities, need to be a little more targeted in our approach.

    A line needs to be drawn and expectations need to be set.


    I believe people should think clearly about;

    The experience they can give an organisation or an individual.

    Confirm their preferred working rountine (ie; in office, WFH, Hybrid etc..)

    Set their salary expectations (for full-time, part-time, freelance or other)

    Are there preferred places they'd like to work (is it Widen, Ikea, or other)

    These are just a few, but by working through and acknowledging what 'you want' you will ultimately see what is truly on offer.

    Another other option is to work with a friend or a mentor to tune not only your offering... but also your application, don't apply for everything, apply for what you want based on the line you have drawn, your expectations, and what you can deliver.

    Organisations will always ask for more and try to pay less...

    The trick is to...

    Londres*
  • Hi Anna,

    I’m Jamil from The Dots! Here are my 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-pages

    2. 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/connections

    Oh, and your newsfeed is the place to discover all the best opportunities to network, find work and more:
    https://the-dots.com/feed

    I hope that helps!

    Jamil

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