What to Expect When You're Expecting (to Design)

BY JAYME ROSSIE

01. Graphic design is a highly competitive field.
There are many talented designers out there, and competition for jobs can be fierce. It is critical to have a strong portfolio and stay up-to-date with industry trends to stand out.

02. Graphic design is not just about making things look pretty.
Effective graphic design requires a deep understanding of design principles, typography, color theory, and composition. Check my article on (Design Books I Didn't Know I Needed) to see my personal favorite design books as well as the books that helped me the most in my career.

Dieter Rams, a German industrial designer, once said: “Good design is making something intelligible and memorable. Great design is making something memorable and meaningful.” It's also imperative to understand the needs of the client and the target audience in order to create memorable and meaningful designs.

03. Technical Skills
Graphic design requires strong technical skills. In order to create professional-quality designs, designers need to have a thorough understanding of design software such as Adobe Creative Suite. And other up-and-coming programs like Figma, Invsion, WordPress, Stripo, and the list continues. It's also essential to have good problem-solving skills and the ability to work well under pressure.

04. Avenues of Design
Graphic design is a flexible field that encompasses many different types of projects, such as branding, web design, illustration, type design, packaging, and advertising. Graphic designers can work in a variety of settings, including advertising agencies, design firms, in-house design departments, and as a freelancer jumping from project to project. Which is what I do.

05. Walk in the Park? Think Again
Graphic design can be an enriching career but definitely comes with its full set of challenges. It can be demanding, with tight deadlines, and requires a lot of attention to detail. Staring at a computer all day can put a lot of strain on your eyes and mind. Therefore, be ready to invest in some blue light glasses and lots of caffeine to keep you energized. It can also be tricky to balance the creative aspects with the technical and business aspects. Another part of the job that I find difficult is the ability to stay creative and inspired on demand. We are not machines. Don't let the design world burn you out. Here are some of the ways I stay inspired and ready to create: books, movies, being in nature, blogs & websites (It's Nice That, Pinterest, Dieline), cooking, fitness, friends & family, and sleep. For me, it's all about balance.

At the end of the day, when you see your work in print or published in the world, it's all worth it!