- Make sure it is what you really want to do.
- It is not an easy field to break into. Try and have a plan or get started designing while you are in school.
- You don't have to be a good artist to be a good graphic designer.
- This makes most designers cringe but with the help of computers and willingness to learn processes and an appreciation for art anyone that excels at using a computer can do it.
- Doing great art means a lot practice.
- Like anything to be great at means practice, use 4 and 5 for good practice.
- Start your own freelance company.
- With small startup fees to register your company you can have a legit place to make freelance dollars from. And it looks good if you have real clients.
- Build your portfolio.
- make sure they are "projects" even if you make up the parameters yourself. So you can explain to potential employers your process.
- Take criticism, like a boss.
- Don't let other peoples opinions of your work get to you take the "ideas" that others have and learn from them do not take it personal.
- Don't try to be a rock star right away.
- Unless you have a real and true "gift" for art, design takes time. Learn processes and computer programs. You will get there. Being a great designer or getting that director position takes a long time in this biz.
- Get your Masters degree
- A Masters degree will put you ahead of the pack of noobs. Also with your Masters degree you can teach others to do what you enjoy.
- Don't give up!
- It took me 10 years after I graduated with my BFA in Graphic Design to get job as a graphic designer doing a lot of other things along the way.
- Become an art person
- You will know what I mean if you already don't.
- Be trendy
- Follow design blogs, designers on facebook, instagram and others. Know what is trendy.
- Half of understanding good trending design is being current.
Thanks for reading
Mike
