We’re not just here to help you find the perfect school – we’d also like to help you find the perfect job. Here are some tips on successfully hunting your first graphic design job.
Researching the Market in Your Area
There’s a good chance your first job will be local – a small business in your town or city needing a print or web advertisement, business card, logo or brochure. Do your research – find out what other graphic designers/graphic design firms exist in your area, visit their websites and get a sense of what sectors of the community they serve.
Creating the Perfect Portfolio
When creating your portfolio, and I know this sounds obvious, make sure to chose only your best and strongest work. Additionally, remember that your portfolio tells a story about you as a designer. Don’t just throw seven great pieces in and call it a day – choose pieces that balance each other out and show your full range as a designer.
If your university or school offers advisory sessions or courses for putting together a portfolio (or assessing the one you’ve all ready made), be sure to access those resources. Bring your portfolio to your professors and any local professionals you may have met. Make sure to take their feedback seriously, and thank them for taking the time to assess your work. Even if his or her notes are total garbage, it’s important to appreciate anyone who helps you start your career.
Writing the Perfect Resume
At this stage in your career your resume will be thin – it’ll involve mostly student projects and internship work. That’s okay – nobody’s expecting a huge resume out of a recent graphic design graduate. The most important part of your resume at this stage is its design. Your resume needs to be a work of art, much like the pieces in your portfolio. The perfect typographic design, logo and business card will take you far.
Also, don’t forget the basics – facts about yourself that a prospective employer would want to know, your telephone number and address, your specific technical skills, etc.
Getting the First Interview
This is the hardest part of the process. Compile a list of places you’d like to work or clients you’d like to work for. Access your school’s job placement services. Network, network, network. There are jobs out there – you just need to hang in there long enough to find one.
